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Afterwards #1
Afterwards
Robyn Crandall thought she had the life she'd always dreamed of, with her childhood sweetheart, until he asked for a divorce. Gone with him are her hopes of a perfect home and family. Moving back in with her mother, broke and broken, Robyn has no plans to do anything besides lick her wounds and hold on to her faltering career. But then she finds herself unexpectedly drawn to a man who has everything and yet seems to have nothing at all.
Every single milestone Chris Scaife set, he's reached and surpassed. The one place he feels out of his depth is being a father to his three kids--all them practical strangers--and dealing with their mothers who view him as a never-ending source of income. Between that, and managing his music empire he doesn't have time for distractions, but one shows up anyway.
Robyn is a woman who deserves the kind of life he doesn't feel equipped to give her, but walking away might not be that easy; especially since she's also shown him glimpses of a life he didn't think he could have.
Every single milestone Chris Scaife set, he's reached and surpassed. The one place he feels out of his depth is being a father to his three kids--all them practical strangers--and dealing with their mothers who view him as a never-ending source of income. Between that, and managing his music empire he doesn't have time for distractions, but one shows up anyway.
Robyn is a woman who deserves the kind of life he doesn't feel equipped to give her, but walking away might not be that easy; especially since she's also shown him glimpses of a life he didn't think he could have.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2013
178 people are currently reading
782 people want to read
About the author
Nia Forrester
68 books961 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 130 reviews
March 30, 2024
What a fantastic book. I love the characters, their story, and the writing. It's the complete package.
Chris is a complicated man with a complicated life. A super high stress job as head of his own music corporation. Three kids from two different mothers, from when he was younger and more foolish.
Robyn, a lawyer, is still reeling from the betrayal of her former husband who then divorced her. She and Chris connect when both are at a low point, and they become friends, and lovers.
This book is about actual adults who are believable, realistic characters with complex and interesting lives. I really enjoyed following the development of their relationship and the difficulties both of them experience in fully trusting the other. It ends on a kind of happy note/ semi-cliffhanger, but luckily the sequel is already there. ( Afterburn )
This is part of a great series of CRs about a fascinating set of interconnected characters.
Chris is a complicated man with a complicated life. A super high stress job as head of his own music corporation. Three kids from two different mothers, from when he was younger and more foolish.
Robyn, a lawyer, is still reeling from the betrayal of her former husband who then divorced her. She and Chris connect when both are at a low point, and they become friends, and lovers.
This book is about actual adults who are believable, realistic characters with complex and interesting lives. I really enjoyed following the development of their relationship and the difficulties both of them experience in fully trusting the other. It ends on a kind of happy note/ semi-cliffhanger, but luckily the sequel is already there. ( Afterburn )
This is part of a great series of CRs about a fascinating set of interconnected characters.
December 28, 2025
When an author writes a book that you have been waiting for you are nervous and so is the author especially if you know and root for the author. When I open Afterwards I was nervous because I did not know what to expect, I knew this book was going to be good from the first page.
Never judge a book by its cover meaning the main character,
I think the thing I liked about this book is I got to know a character that I was not sure I would like Chris Scaife. I got to know him, I understood the why even if I did not like him sometimes, but I understood him. The thing I found out is that he is a complicated man jaded by life, he started out like everyone else but because of his wealth people treated him differently, so he had to be different. Chris wanted some to want him for him, to care about him, not what he could give them I think he forgot he wanted that and lived his live with disposable women until Robyn. Robyn was that someone, but he was so guarded that the relationship was a process. The author showed us the process in this book, because that was what it took to become deep with a man so guarded. It’s funny that the man who could sleep with any one he wanted took his time with Robyn. When they did have their first time together it was so passionate and intimate that you knew you were reading something special but it was the afterwards that made it good. The relationship between Chris and Robyn was about friendship and a complicated love, this story will keep you on your toes but it is so worth reading.
Never judge a book by its cover meaning the main character,
I think the thing I liked about this book is I got to know a character that I was not sure I would like Chris Scaife. I got to know him, I understood the why even if I did not like him sometimes, but I understood him. The thing I found out is that he is a complicated man jaded by life, he started out like everyone else but because of his wealth people treated him differently, so he had to be different. Chris wanted some to want him for him, to care about him, not what he could give them I think he forgot he wanted that and lived his live with disposable women until Robyn. Robyn was that someone, but he was so guarded that the relationship was a process. The author showed us the process in this book, because that was what it took to become deep with a man so guarded. It’s funny that the man who could sleep with any one he wanted took his time with Robyn. When they did have their first time together it was so passionate and intimate that you knew you were reading something special but it was the afterwards that made it good. The relationship between Chris and Robyn was about friendship and a complicated love, this story will keep you on your toes but it is so worth reading.
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June 14, 2015
06/12/2015 -- Re-read
Okay, not sure what I was thinking when I rated this in 2013 because this is really a 4.5 Star read. The story isn't simple and the characters have depth. I don't always have to like the back-story for a character to appreciate the thought and richness of their development.
Robyn has huge talent that she has filtered most of her adult life so she didn't shine brighter than her husband. Now he's gone and she can quit hiding, but can remember how to do that or did he destroy her brightness?
We first met Chris in Commitments. He wasn't a favorite of mine. I wouldn't say he is a favorite of mine now, but I appreciate his complexity. He is hugely complicated. He's grown from the talented hoodrat into this driven man who must bridge his former world with his now world -- every day due to the nature of the business he's in. He's tough and hides any gentleness he has. Robyn sees it. She brings out the best things in him. He wants to be a better man for her.
Can you forgive a person for who they were and love them now? Do you even care who they were? Can a person change that much? These are all the things you think about as you read through this book. Not sure I'd have the courage Robyn has with Chris, but then again, not sure she really has a choice. He pulls her like a magnet. A tough man to resist. We can only hope that he doesn't resort to his old ways. That he truly has changed and can love like an adult.
This is a 4.5 Star read. I never, or I say never, change a rating, but just can't let this stand. So, adjusting my former rating of this book.
Happy Reading!
============================
11/07/2013 --
Overall Rating = 3.5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 3 / 3 / 4 = 3 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 4 Stars
Character Development = 3 Stars
Story Appreciation = 4 Stars
Worth the Chili = 5 Stars -- [$3.99 on Amazon]
I love this author and this series!
A few comments to explain myself:
1 -- I love Chris. He is a successful businessman in a tough industry. He allowed few people close to him. He was tough but fair. You could see him negotiate to get what he wanted. Incredibly focused, loyal to those he cares about and sexy as hell. He seemed very real to me.
2 -- Likewise, as much as I warmed to Chris, I didn't feel the same about Robyn. She just seemed a bit intangible to me. I understood her, but I thought the character lacked depth. I was a bit surprised. Realistic ballsy women are a trademark or key highlight of this author's style. She can write a tough, career focused black woman like no other I've read. Robyn isn't her best character. At least for me she isn't.
3 -- Nia Forrester started my search for other good black characters. I hadn't had much experience with them and when I read her Commitment and others, I wanted more. The one thing I really like about Nia is the language she uses or doesn't use -- depends on your view point. I can't focus on a book if it uses too much casual neighborhood slang. It breaks my flow too much and becomes monotonous. I really like that the author provides good characters you can relate to regardless of culture. She seems to want anyone who reads her to be comfortable in her stories and find her characters relate-able. I do.
4 -- a perfect price point.
5 -- Condom use. Come on? This guy has been around the block more than a time or two. But, you don't think you can get pregnant, so no protection needed. These beauties protect from more than the unexpected 3a feeding, they protect the girl bits ladies. Please be more responsible than these characters. They are make believe so nothing can happen to them. Contrast this with fragile lil' ole you. Please sex responsibly. This was an example of irresponsible writing and it disappointed me.
Another very enjoyable read by one of my favorite authors. I found her quite by accident early this year while cruising the free Amazon books. I hope you give her a go. Very enjoyable read!
Happy Reading!!
Okay, not sure what I was thinking when I rated this in 2013 because this is really a 4.5 Star read. The story isn't simple and the characters have depth. I don't always have to like the back-story for a character to appreciate the thought and richness of their development.
Robyn has huge talent that she has filtered most of her adult life so she didn't shine brighter than her husband. Now he's gone and she can quit hiding, but can remember how to do that or did he destroy her brightness?
We first met Chris in Commitments. He wasn't a favorite of mine. I wouldn't say he is a favorite of mine now, but I appreciate his complexity. He is hugely complicated. He's grown from the talented hoodrat into this driven man who must bridge his former world with his now world -- every day due to the nature of the business he's in. He's tough and hides any gentleness he has. Robyn sees it. She brings out the best things in him. He wants to be a better man for her.
Can you forgive a person for who they were and love them now? Do you even care who they were? Can a person change that much? These are all the things you think about as you read through this book. Not sure I'd have the courage Robyn has with Chris, but then again, not sure she really has a choice. He pulls her like a magnet. A tough man to resist. We can only hope that he doesn't resort to his old ways. That he truly has changed and can love like an adult.
This is a 4.5 Star read. I never, or I say never, change a rating, but just can't let this stand. So, adjusting my former rating of this book.
Happy Reading!
============================
11/07/2013 --
Overall Rating = 3.5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 3 / 3 / 4 = 3 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 4 Stars
Character Development = 3 Stars
Story Appreciation = 4 Stars
Worth the Chili = 5 Stars -- [$3.99 on Amazon]
I love this author and this series!
A few comments to explain myself:
1 -- I love Chris. He is a successful businessman in a tough industry. He allowed few people close to him. He was tough but fair. You could see him negotiate to get what he wanted. Incredibly focused, loyal to those he cares about and sexy as hell. He seemed very real to me.
2 -- Likewise, as much as I warmed to Chris, I didn't feel the same about Robyn. She just seemed a bit intangible to me. I understood her, but I thought the character lacked depth. I was a bit surprised. Realistic ballsy women are a trademark or key highlight of this author's style. She can write a tough, career focused black woman like no other I've read. Robyn isn't her best character. At least for me she isn't.
3 -- Nia Forrester started my search for other good black characters. I hadn't had much experience with them and when I read her Commitment and others, I wanted more. The one thing I really like about Nia is the language she uses or doesn't use -- depends on your view point. I can't focus on a book if it uses too much casual neighborhood slang. It breaks my flow too much and becomes monotonous. I really like that the author provides good characters you can relate to regardless of culture. She seems to want anyone who reads her to be comfortable in her stories and find her characters relate-able. I do.
4 -- a perfect price point.
5 -- Condom use. Come on? This guy has been around the block more than a time or two. But, you don't think you can get pregnant, so no protection needed. These beauties protect from more than the unexpected 3a feeding, they protect the girl bits ladies. Please be more responsible than these characters. They are make believe so nothing can happen to them. Contrast this with fragile lil' ole you. Please sex responsibly. This was an example of irresponsible writing and it disappointed me.
Another very enjoyable read by one of my favorite authors. I found her quite by accident early this year while cruising the free Amazon books. I hope you give her a go. Very enjoyable read!
Happy Reading!!
October 27, 2013
OMG this book was so good I didn't want it to end. It felt like Riley and Shawn 2.0. From the previous books I never really had Chris figured out. I always pictured him as a Heavy D physically. So when his description was revealed I was pleasantly surprised. Nia has this way of drawing you in from the first sentence and that was how I felt reading this book. Robyn was that positive woman. No drama, no nonsense, who wears her heart on her sleeve. She was the perfect ying to Chris's yang. Chris was hard to read oftentimes, so I couldn't really tell if he was all in until much later in the book. This was a complete tale. There was nothing rushed, and the story flowed seamlessly and showed the gradual progression (and regression) of a relationship. Nia I need a follow up to this, and much sooner than later.....well done!
October 12, 2022
Definitely my favorite of the series and with a person like Chris Scaife, you can see why he needed his own separate series. Loved it. Love Robin. You can really just start with his story. I like to read all the stories in a series, because I am big on character development and like to get invested. You don’t necessarily have to read the entire commitment series to enjoy the Afterwards series and all of the stores connected to Chris and Robin. On to Afterburn
July 23, 2016
I. LOVE. Nia! Ughhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!
January 29, 2021
Anything by Nia Forrester is well written. I read Deuce's book and wanted to find out about the man that created him. His father isn't my cup of tea... but this story helped me to understand him a little bit better. Chris and Robin's relationship was very different and I'm definitely gonna continue to read more of their story. This story didn't draw me in as much as other books that I've read by her, but overall still a good read.
June 24, 2025
🥲
I adored this book - a grumpy x sunshine will always do it for me. Chris was so nonchalant about everything but Robyn matched his energy. I’m so curious to see what he’s about to do in book two.. 🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️
I adored this book - a grumpy x sunshine will always do it for me. Chris was so nonchalant about everything but Robyn matched his energy. I’m so curious to see what he’s about to do in book two.. 🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️
July 25, 2023
I don’t get this book. I missed a lot the first time I read it. I remember how upset I was about the very stereotypical Africa comment the H made so I didn’t notice much else. This is written as a relationship story between two grown folks but the only people who actually acted mature were the side/ supporting characters.
Robin constantly makes up excuses for Chris. Why is he quiet; why he is being rude; why he keeps huffing and puffing for no reason but I think this is a situation of the author trying to tell us than show us how mature he actually is. He is a business whiz but kind of stunted in all areas of his life. He is a terrible father and a terribly horrible partner but we are supposed to overlook that because somehow Robin understands why he is that way.
She is portrayed as this grown intelligent woman but she is actually very much a doormat. She does not stand up for herself, not a single time. Tell me why you would want to stay with someone you are pregnant with but they can relinquish their parental rights?
Chris complains about his “ baby mommas” and yet no attempt has been made to ask for joint custody or to even become a present active parent. The one time he steps up by accepting rather reluctantly to take his daughter to work for daddy daughter work day, what does he do? He offloads her onto Robin and she is very happy to step in and hang out with the child. You can’t hang out with your own child for a few hours?
The thing about male centered women is that they often forget that they are also pick mes. This man at every turn shows you that he is not going to be a good partner to you but you are your own boss and you just want him for him? Why are you competing with a rich man to prove that you are not like his other “ baby mommas” by deciding to forgo all the luxuries that come with being with a rich person. She wants to prove so bad she isn’t a gold digger, who cares? Trying to show that you are better than those who came before you is the worst pick me behaviour I’ve seen.
“ Look at me. I’m different. I understand you so pick me.” Very embarrassing and quite sad actually.
Robin constantly makes up excuses for Chris. Why is he quiet; why he is being rude; why he keeps huffing and puffing for no reason but I think this is a situation of the author trying to tell us than show us how mature he actually is. He is a business whiz but kind of stunted in all areas of his life. He is a terrible father and a terribly horrible partner but we are supposed to overlook that because somehow Robin understands why he is that way.
She is portrayed as this grown intelligent woman but she is actually very much a doormat. She does not stand up for herself, not a single time. Tell me why you would want to stay with someone you are pregnant with but they can relinquish their parental rights?
Chris complains about his “ baby mommas” and yet no attempt has been made to ask for joint custody or to even become a present active parent. The one time he steps up by accepting rather reluctantly to take his daughter to work for daddy daughter work day, what does he do? He offloads her onto Robin and she is very happy to step in and hang out with the child. You can’t hang out with your own child for a few hours?
The thing about male centered women is that they often forget that they are also pick mes. This man at every turn shows you that he is not going to be a good partner to you but you are your own boss and you just want him for him? Why are you competing with a rich man to prove that you are not like his other “ baby mommas” by deciding to forgo all the luxuries that come with being with a rich person. She wants to prove so bad she isn’t a gold digger, who cares? Trying to show that you are better than those who came before you is the worst pick me behaviour I’ve seen.
“ Look at me. I’m different. I understand you so pick me.” Very embarrassing and quite sad actually.
October 28, 2013
I don't have the words to describe how happy I was Saturday morning when I logged into FB and saw that Afterwards had been released. I immediately bought a copy, then got busy and before I knew it, it was Sunday evening and I hadn't read a single word. As soon as I was able to catch a breath, I started reading...and didn't (ok, couldn't) stop until I was done. This book is excellent. I've read and loved all of this author's books, and feel like she somehow manages to get better with each one.
The other reviewers have done a great job of reviewing the book, so I'd like to give just a few observations:
I love the description of Chris as mean-sexy. Haven't we all seen/known guys who could be described as such? He was so aloof and hard to read, but that didn't put Robyn off. I wasn't sure how much I was gonna like Chris, but I should have known that while he had lots of issues, Nia was gonna make us fall in love with him. I suffer from migraines, so in a weird way, that endeared him to me (crazy, I know!).
Lastly, after learning the title of the book months ago, I was curious as to what it meant, but didn't think much of it. Loved, loved, loved the concept of afterwards as It pertains to Chris. There was really no other title that could have been chosen. Sheer perfection!
I think Robyn is the most relatable out of all the wonderful heroines that Ms. Forrester has created. She was beautiful, but not out of this world beautiful like Tracy, or super-sweet and perfect like Riley; she just seemed more real for some reason. Her story unfolded kind of slowly, and I wanted to wring her neck several times, bit I eventually understood. I liked the relationship between her & her mom.
I loved the glimpses we were given of Riley and Shawn and Brendan and Tracy. They're all happy and so in love, and I feel like I can finally let them go. Well done, Miss Nia!
Of course, I didn't want the book to end. I liked the ending, but it wouldn't be a Nia Forrester book if she didn't leave you wondering...and anxious for more. I've got my fingers crossed that she'll give us a follow up on this couple - even if it's just one of the Shorts that she posts on her website. She really knows how to leave us begging for more, doesn't she?
If you're reading this, and haven't read the book, go and get it NOW! You don't want to miss this!
The other reviewers have done a great job of reviewing the book, so I'd like to give just a few observations:
I love the description of Chris as mean-sexy. Haven't we all seen/known guys who could be described as such? He was so aloof and hard to read, but that didn't put Robyn off. I wasn't sure how much I was gonna like Chris, but I should have known that while he had lots of issues, Nia was gonna make us fall in love with him. I suffer from migraines, so in a weird way, that endeared him to me (crazy, I know!).
Lastly, after learning the title of the book months ago, I was curious as to what it meant, but didn't think much of it. Loved, loved, loved the concept of afterwards as It pertains to Chris. There was really no other title that could have been chosen. Sheer perfection!
I think Robyn is the most relatable out of all the wonderful heroines that Ms. Forrester has created. She was beautiful, but not out of this world beautiful like Tracy, or super-sweet and perfect like Riley; she just seemed more real for some reason. Her story unfolded kind of slowly, and I wanted to wring her neck several times, bit I eventually understood. I liked the relationship between her & her mom.
I loved the glimpses we were given of Riley and Shawn and Brendan and Tracy. They're all happy and so in love, and I feel like I can finally let them go. Well done, Miss Nia!
Of course, I didn't want the book to end. I liked the ending, but it wouldn't be a Nia Forrester book if she didn't leave you wondering...and anxious for more. I've got my fingers crossed that she'll give us a follow up on this couple - even if it's just one of the Shorts that she posts on her website. She really knows how to leave us begging for more, doesn't she?
If you're reading this, and haven't read the book, go and get it NOW! You don't want to miss this!
October 27, 2013
Oh my gosh, where do I begin! I absolutely loved this book. I was up until after 4 a.m. fighting sleep, trying to read as much as I could lol!
Let me start by simply saying how much I adored both Robyn and Chris. Loved them together, loved them apart, just LOVED them! I was so glad there was no instalove - their relationship was built on a solid friendship which eventually developed into more, and it made the story much more enjoyable.
Robyn is easily my favorite of all of Ms. Forrester's heroines. She is strong, intelligent, pragmatic, and really just a kindred spirit.
And Chris . . . he is unlike any male character I've ever read. When his personal/familial situation was revealed, I was so worried that I wouldn't like him, but as the story went on I fell in love with how flawed and imperfect he was. I also enjoyed reading how seemingly unaffected he was in his early interactions with Robyn! I laughed out loud at how standoffish he appeared - but it was clear to me that he was developing feelings for her!
I have to finish off this review by including one of my favorite passages:
"A little of the steam seemed to go out of him. And just that quickly, it went out of her as well, because her moods were attuned to his now, whether she liked it or not. It was virtually impossible to gain satisfaction from his discomfort. That was what love did to a person."
Lord I CRIED when I read that - simply beautiful!
5 stars!
Let me start by simply saying how much I adored both Robyn and Chris. Loved them together, loved them apart, just LOVED them! I was so glad there was no instalove - their relationship was built on a solid friendship which eventually developed into more, and it made the story much more enjoyable.
Robyn is easily my favorite of all of Ms. Forrester's heroines. She is strong, intelligent, pragmatic, and really just a kindred spirit.
And Chris . . . he is unlike any male character I've ever read. When his personal/familial situation was revealed, I was so worried that I wouldn't like him, but as the story went on I fell in love with how flawed and imperfect he was. I also enjoyed reading how seemingly unaffected he was in his early interactions with Robyn! I laughed out loud at how standoffish he appeared - but it was clear to me that he was developing feelings for her!
I have to finish off this review by including one of my favorite passages:
"A little of the steam seemed to go out of him. And just that quickly, it went out of her as well, because her moods were attuned to his now, whether she liked it or not. It was virtually impossible to gain satisfaction from his discomfort. That was what love did to a person."
Lord I CRIED when I read that - simply beautiful!
5 stars!
August 25, 2014
Best book ever! I love all of Nia Forrester books and this one is Amazing. I love all of the characters she has created that we continue to get little snip bits of. The dialogue, the emotions, and sex, it just so amazing. I loved Robyn. She was strong, independent, and forgiving. She knew what she wanted and she went after it. She didn't take the easy road, she made her decision based on the love of her unborn child and for her own peace of mind. Every time I read about Chris, I invision Sean Combs but not as flashy. But I loved Chris, he was so smooth and raw. Thanks Nia for another wonderful book.
Ps. I would love to read more about Sean, Riley, Tracy, and Brendan.
Ps. I would love to read more about Sean, Riley, Tracy, and Brendan.
December 6, 2014
Afterwards was a great follow up to the other books in this series. Nia Forrest did not disappoint. Looking forward to reading Afterburn.
January 7, 2015
Omg
This has got to be the best out of the three couples where you could relate to how they were feeling I love this book waiting first for the next!!!!
This has got to be the best out of the three couples where you could relate to how they were feeling I love this book waiting first for the next!!!!
May 17, 2022
As usual, Ms. Forrester gives an exciting read with wonderful character development. I love Chris and Robin!
February 1, 2016
Just finished my second read 2 years later. Still love these characters flaws and all. Still love this book.
February 1, 2016
Loved this book, I have been sleeping on Nia!!!! But I'm awake now so bring it on!
March 19, 2019
YES!!!!
Such a good book. A curvy, twisty tale of a romance, a love, that snuck up on both of the protagonists. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about their journey.
A must read.👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥
Such a good book. A curvy, twisty tale of a romance, a love, that snuck up on both of the protagonists. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about their journey.
A must read.👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥
October 27, 2013
Excellent, well told story! Not much more needs to be said but there is a lot more I want to say.
I wasn't even sure I was interested in Chris' story but I am oh so glad it was told. When he was first introduced in 'Commitment' he did not come off as a particularly likable character. But throughout that story and the books that followed we started to see a glimpse of his loyalty and that there might be a softer side there.
In the beginning of the story, to see this hard, street, thug-type guy become so vulnerable with a debilitating migraine immediately endeared him to me (as crazy as that may sound). He clearly already had too much on his plate, but he was doing a favor for his friends which showed how truly caring he really is.
I love the fact that although Robyn had been knocked down from a failed marriage and her self esteem had taken a hit, she was still a very strong woman who could handle a man like Chris. She just needed a little push to be reminded of that and I love that he was the one who provided that.
It was great seeing old friends, Tracy, Riley and the crew. I still feel like I haven't had enough of Brendan and Tracy but first I want more of Chris and Robyn.
Nia never wraps stories up with a cute, happily ever after package so I wasn't expecting that with this one. One could say all that needs to be told has been, but I feel like there's more. I HOPE there's more. I still want to know what happens afterwards. ;-)
Well done Ms. Forrester!
I wasn't even sure I was interested in Chris' story but I am oh so glad it was told. When he was first introduced in 'Commitment' he did not come off as a particularly likable character. But throughout that story and the books that followed we started to see a glimpse of his loyalty and that there might be a softer side there.
In the beginning of the story, to see this hard, street, thug-type guy become so vulnerable with a debilitating migraine immediately endeared him to me (as crazy as that may sound). He clearly already had too much on his plate, but he was doing a favor for his friends which showed how truly caring he really is.
I love the fact that although Robyn had been knocked down from a failed marriage and her self esteem had taken a hit, she was still a very strong woman who could handle a man like Chris. She just needed a little push to be reminded of that and I love that he was the one who provided that.
It was great seeing old friends, Tracy, Riley and the crew. I still feel like I haven't had enough of Brendan and Tracy but first I want more of Chris and Robyn.
Nia never wraps stories up with a cute, happily ever after package so I wasn't expecting that with this one. One could say all that needs to be told has been, but I feel like there's more. I HOPE there's more. I still want to know what happens afterwards. ;-)
Well done Ms. Forrester!
June 29, 2015
I waited on pins and needles for this book. I wasn't sure how was going to handle hearing Chris' story. I had my preconceived notions about him in Commitment and the subsequent books but hey after reading Afterwards, I was blown away. Ms. Forrester was able to capture such an enigmatic man and give us this 3-dimensional view that really humanized him. I am not sure how I felt about Robyn... At first, I was hesitant to connect with her because of her decisions but through the magic that is Nia Forrester, I totally understand why she handled things they way she did. Chris needed someone like her. All of the characters were so well written. The dialogue was terrific. I cried when the book ended, it was that good. Now I have to wait for another of Nia Forrester's books. They are like a drug. You crave them, stalk her web site constantly, and once you get one to read, you drop absolutely everything in your life to dive into the world she creates for her characters. I keep searching for writers half as good just to fill the time until she publishes another and haven't found one yet. Just keep writing please Nia!! Intelligent, humorous, classy novels about people of color. Absolutely wonderful.
May 4, 2014
I love complicated characters. The more flawed they are, the better. And that is something I always appreciate in Nia Forrester's writing. Instead of serving us characters and situations that are picture-perfect, she presents us with three-dimensional characters who sometimes infuriate us, yet who we begin to care about very deeply.
With Robyn, we are given a woman whose life was perfect on paper until she finds herself having to rebuild her life following an unexpected divorce. We feel her pain, anger and frustration in a very tangible way.
For Chris, we see a man who is used to success in all aspects of his life yet unable to be the sort of father his children need. As he and Robyn come together, we get a very compelling character study of two people at crossroads in their lives. And it sucks you in. You want to know what happens to them.
This is one of those books you'll recommend to your friends.
Two thumbs up, Nia! A great novel!
With Robyn, we are given a woman whose life was perfect on paper until she finds herself having to rebuild her life following an unexpected divorce. We feel her pain, anger and frustration in a very tangible way.
For Chris, we see a man who is used to success in all aspects of his life yet unable to be the sort of father his children need. As he and Robyn come together, we get a very compelling character study of two people at crossroads in their lives. And it sucks you in. You want to know what happens to them.
This is one of those books you'll recommend to your friends.
Two thumbs up, Nia! A great novel!
December 23, 2022
3.5
My main problem with the book was the constant mention of gendered beliefs and differences. Like "men don't like this", "women are like that" and the othering and not my girl-y feel of the main character - interesting not from the own character's mouth but from everyone around her, like every woman on earth is a fucking hassle, but this is the onlyyyy one that's decent. I don't care if it was not representative of the author and is only how the characters think. It was annoying.
But other than that...no complaints. The story is obviously not very conventional and I definitely don't agree with mannnnnyyyy of either mc's decision but the story was damn interesting so.
My main problem with the book was the constant mention of gendered beliefs and differences. Like "men don't like this", "women are like that" and the othering and not my girl-y feel of the main character - interesting not from the own character's mouth but from everyone around her, like every woman on earth is a fucking hassle, but this is the onlyyyy one that's decent. I don't care if it was not representative of the author and is only how the characters think. It was annoying.
But other than that...no complaints. The story is obviously not very conventional and I definitely don't agree with mannnnnyyyy of either mc's decision but the story was damn interesting so.
November 4, 2013
I loved this book! I have loved all of Nia's book but this really resonated with me. After briefly getting to know, Chris Scaife in Commitment and Unsuitable Men, now it's his turn to fall in love. Mean-sexy and complicated and a whole lot more than meets the eye. The heroine Robin Crandall, who's rebounding from her own personal losses loves him simply for him. Very passionate and very provoking! Excellent Jib Ms Forrester!
July 12, 2014
Loved this book! Ms. Forrester has become my new favorite author. All of her character are well developed and real. Chris and Robyn are working so hard to be friends, they are not prepared for the relationship they fall into.
June 8, 2016
Well, it's over yet again! This was me @ 99.9%:
"Robyn, I love you too!" - Chris Scaife
I love this series!
"Robyn, I love you too!" - Chris Scaife
I love this series!
November 2, 2013
Loved loved loved it. Nia Forrester writes the best bozo asks ever. I'm loving chris
November 18, 2013
So good, I'm reading it for a second time. :)
December 15, 2013
Loved the hero and can't wait to re-read this novel.
September 2, 2014
Loved it!
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