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Jane Doe Black
She dedicated her life to working for the justice system, but when she needed it most, it didn’t work for her.
On the eve of trial, Assistant District Attorney Lainey Abbott gets a disturbing phone call. Her baby sister, Stephanie, who should have been back at her college dorm after visiting for the weekend, never arrived. At first, she isn’t too worried, because she’s a system insider and has plenty of resources available to locate her sister quickly, including Russ Sanders, the police detective she’s been on and off with for years. It’ll take a couple days, tops. They’ll find Steph and give her a piece of their mind for being so irresponsible.
But a year later, Stephanie still hasn’t been found.
And what’s worse, the system Lainey once had so much faith in, no longer seems inclined to look. Reeling from the loss, her career and personal life are in freefall, and most days she can’t even bring herself to care.
Until another case surfaces, of a girl who’s gone missing under strikingly similar circumstances to Steph’s ...
On the eve of trial, Assistant District Attorney Lainey Abbott gets a disturbing phone call. Her baby sister, Stephanie, who should have been back at her college dorm after visiting for the weekend, never arrived. At first, she isn’t too worried, because she’s a system insider and has plenty of resources available to locate her sister quickly, including Russ Sanders, the police detective she’s been on and off with for years. It’ll take a couple days, tops. They’ll find Steph and give her a piece of their mind for being so irresponsible.
But a year later, Stephanie still hasn’t been found.
And what’s worse, the system Lainey once had so much faith in, no longer seems inclined to look. Reeling from the loss, her career and personal life are in freefall, and most days she can’t even bring herself to care.
Until another case surfaces, of a girl who’s gone missing under strikingly similar circumstances to Steph’s ...
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2023
353 people are currently reading
376 people want to read
About the author
Nia Forrester
67 books956 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 107 reviews
July 3, 2024
3.5⭐️ rounded up this was a hard one. In my opinion it was more a police/procedural drama about a lawyer with a missing sister. Very different from a bog standard “whodunnit” mystery with a range of possible suspects for us to sift through.
I still enjoyed this! And it was quite refreshing to read this type of story about the justice system from a black author with black characters who play police officers and prosecutors.
There’s a lot in this one - loss of a parent, loss of a sibling, alcohol dependency, racism, depression. It sounds terrible but I promise it all makes the story. It’s not trauma for the sake of it. These issues link into the plot and build our main character, Lainey Abbot.
Lainey, is a complicated character that equally frustrates us as much we empathise with her. Her alcohol dependency is written so realistically - that internal dialogue she has with herself to justify her drinking or to even just battle the craving is executed perfectly. And this is what I mean about it not being your typical mystery…as much as we want to find out what happened to her little sister Steph, we simply just want to root for Lainey and her love interest Russ 🥹 “Will you still love me if I tell you I’m a defense lawyer now?” Russ grins. “I’d love you if you were a defendant.”🥹
The ending was heartbreaking. I hate stories with no real justice (can’t say more as don’t want to spoil). Also the reveal was a tiny bit flat (again, I can’t really explain without spoiling).
It’s left me feeling quite sad but that’s okay! I think it was meant to.
Ending on a quote that left me teary eyed, because if I must suffer then so do you guys!
“I am here to speak up for those Black girls and women, maybe some of them not so well loved, some not so cared for, who have not been found. And I am here to speak up for those for whom no one is even looking.” 💔
————————————————————-
I’m backkkkkkk. After a week of feeling meh and bleh about life, I need a good old fashioned mystery to get me in the zone. This author is quite unknown and underrated (in my circle). And I’ve only ever seen her write Black romance. Mystery/Thriller is a new genre for her and I need to show my support and giver her a chance. I realllyyyy hope this delivers 🤞🏾
I still enjoyed this! And it was quite refreshing to read this type of story about the justice system from a black author with black characters who play police officers and prosecutors.
There’s a lot in this one - loss of a parent, loss of a sibling, alcohol dependency, racism, depression. It sounds terrible but I promise it all makes the story. It’s not trauma for the sake of it. These issues link into the plot and build our main character, Lainey Abbot.
Lainey, is a complicated character that equally frustrates us as much we empathise with her. Her alcohol dependency is written so realistically - that internal dialogue she has with herself to justify her drinking or to even just battle the craving is executed perfectly. And this is what I mean about it not being your typical mystery…as much as we want to find out what happened to her little sister Steph, we simply just want to root for Lainey and her love interest Russ 🥹 “Will you still love me if I tell you I’m a defense lawyer now?” Russ grins. “I’d love you if you were a defendant.”🥹
The ending was heartbreaking. I hate stories with no real justice (can’t say more as don’t want to spoil). Also the reveal was a tiny bit flat (again, I can’t really explain without spoiling).
It’s left me feeling quite sad but that’s okay! I think it was meant to.
Ending on a quote that left me teary eyed, because if I must suffer then so do you guys!
“I am here to speak up for those Black girls and women, maybe some of them not so well loved, some not so cared for, who have not been found. And I am here to speak up for those for whom no one is even looking.” 💔
————————————————————-
I’m backkkkkkk. After a week of feeling meh and bleh about life, I need a good old fashioned mystery to get me in the zone. This author is quite unknown and underrated (in my circle). And I’ve only ever seen her write Black romance. Mystery/Thriller is a new genre for her and I need to show my support and giver her a chance. I realllyyyy hope this delivers 🤞🏾
February 15, 2023
I am shocked and awed!
Okay. I was ready for a rough side and a fantastic story. I received both equally in a tangible and electrifying fashion. I needed to find out what happened to Stephanie and why no one seemed to understand Lainey's grief. Russ took on the challenges and helped in her stages of grief and emotional turmoil head-on. I wanted the story to get to the ending so that I could have an answer to where was Stephanie? But then I was afraid of getting the answer to the Jane Doe question. So many questions I knew were just behind the curtain the author kept pulling back, begging us to keep pace, but the answer was complex, yet it was staring us in the face all along. The mystery part was well done and kept me glued to the pages ticking off each clue with cheeky confidence. And in the end, the answer was the explanation we needed—the author delivered an exceptional experience.
Okay. I was ready for a rough side and a fantastic story. I received both equally in a tangible and electrifying fashion. I needed to find out what happened to Stephanie and why no one seemed to understand Lainey's grief. Russ took on the challenges and helped in her stages of grief and emotional turmoil head-on. I wanted the story to get to the ending so that I could have an answer to where was Stephanie? But then I was afraid of getting the answer to the Jane Doe question. So many questions I knew were just behind the curtain the author kept pulling back, begging us to keep pace, but the answer was complex, yet it was staring us in the face all along. The mystery part was well done and kept me glued to the pages ticking off each clue with cheeky confidence. And in the end, the answer was the explanation we needed—the author delivered an exceptional experience.
February 23, 2023
Different from Ms Forrester's other books, but still well-written and enjoyable. The mystery revolves around the disappearance of ADA Lainey's sister, and as the book progresses, Lainey discovers more about her sister and herself. I'm not very good at guessing the outcome of mystery stories, and I enjoyed the gradual unfolding of the actual course of events in this one, along with a few interesting red herrings along the way.
There is also a romance element in the book, but it's not completely straightforward, and it will be interesting to see where that goes if the series continues. But I will certainly read the next book, if there is one.
There is also a romance element in the book, but it's not completely straightforward, and it will be interesting to see where that goes if the series continues. But I will certainly read the next book, if there is one.
March 30, 2023
What a journey, I enjoyed the storyline. The mystery/thriller aspect and the simultaneous love story was well executed. The author provided a good amount of information on the criminal justice system, I learned a lot of information. The story started a little slower than I expected but when the storyline progressed, I couldn't get enough of the story. By the end, my chest was tight. I did not expect the story to turn out the way it did. I would recommend this story if you like twists, representation of black women in charge, and a strong plot. I am looking forward to more from this series.
March 10, 2023
Well, fuck me. Where do I go from here?
Did I intentionally take my time while reading this book because it was so well written and I wanted it to last longer? Yes. But, was I also really nervous about the unfolding of events.. dreading the unknown that I went to go look for spoilers? Yes. Thankfully I didn't see any and continued to read. I was dreading every chapter. I try to stay way from mystery and suspense because of the anxiety. And oh boy did this book deliver. Ladies and gentlemen, this is how you write.
I was taken in by every description and every observation that Lainey made. Daily mundane things, fleeting thoughts and behaviours that we never pay attention to, Ms Forrester did an incredible job portraying them so that the story was so realistic. The intrusive thoughts, the routine work nonsense and annoying people we deal with everyday, Ms Forrester let us know that she knows and that Lainey goes through the same bullshit in addition to the hell with her sister's situation. I was so taken in by Lainey's voice and thoughts. I was on edge.
Also, I loved how the relationship between Russ and Lainey was explored. So natural. Nothing seemed forced and everything was logical. I also loved Russ. Definitely Ms Forrester's caliber of men- Hardworking, affectionate, sweet, no- nonsense and empathetic.
I loved how I was never bored when it came to the other characters that were explored because they were never surface level. Sure entire chapters were not dedicated to them but we get to understand their basic motives just as we would a fellow co-worker or acquaintance. The secondary characters brought out different sides of Lainey and made us understand her better.
This was a very well written book. I did not see the end coming. I am going to read the next book despite my anxiety with mystery/suspense genres. I am really curious about where the story of Lainey leads.
Did I intentionally take my time while reading this book because it was so well written and I wanted it to last longer? Yes. But, was I also really nervous about the unfolding of events.. dreading the unknown that I went to go look for spoilers? Yes. Thankfully I didn't see any and continued to read. I was dreading every chapter. I try to stay way from mystery and suspense because of the anxiety. And oh boy did this book deliver. Ladies and gentlemen, this is how you write.
I was taken in by every description and every observation that Lainey made. Daily mundane things, fleeting thoughts and behaviours that we never pay attention to, Ms Forrester did an incredible job portraying them so that the story was so realistic. The intrusive thoughts, the routine work nonsense and annoying people we deal with everyday, Ms Forrester let us know that she knows and that Lainey goes through the same bullshit in addition to the hell with her sister's situation. I was so taken in by Lainey's voice and thoughts. I was on edge.
Also, I loved how the relationship between Russ and Lainey was explored. So natural. Nothing seemed forced and everything was logical. I also loved Russ. Definitely Ms Forrester's caliber of men- Hardworking, affectionate, sweet, no- nonsense and empathetic.
I loved how I was never bored when it came to the other characters that were explored because they were never surface level. Sure entire chapters were not dedicated to them but we get to understand their basic motives just as we would a fellow co-worker or acquaintance. The secondary characters brought out different sides of Lainey and made us understand her better.
This was a very well written book. I did not see the end coming. I am going to read the next book despite my anxiety with mystery/suspense genres. I am really curious about where the story of Lainey leads.
March 13, 2023
3.75 stars. Nia Forrester is getting into her “Mystery” bag, and I’m always open to some diversity. This would have been a 3 for me, but the ending gave an extra .75… I’m not against mystery, but this was a really slow read for me. I didn’t get interested until about 55-65% in. It was also very melancholy and brooding, really.
I was intrigued just enough to see what the next book may bring.
I was intrigued just enough to see what the next book may bring.
March 2, 2023
Nia delivered again!!!
This author will remain my top favorite! Her wordsmithing, character development and engaging storyline remain her strengths. Even as she dared to dive into mystery suspense she still delivered. This story highlights what our community has struggled with forever and that is the overlooked and ignored plight of missing Black women/girls. The author does not hold back but she is not preachy about it allowing readers to stew on this topic through the eyes of Lainey, a formidable ADA whose sister comes up missing with no trace for over a year. Her partnering with Russ a cop places on a nail biting edge of your seat journey to uncover the truth and whew....what a journey. I won't dare to mention spoilers but I will state that if this book is not on your TBR you are missing out on a formidable reading experience.
This author will remain my top favorite! Her wordsmithing, character development and engaging storyline remain her strengths. Even as she dared to dive into mystery suspense she still delivered. This story highlights what our community has struggled with forever and that is the overlooked and ignored plight of missing Black women/girls. The author does not hold back but she is not preachy about it allowing readers to stew on this topic through the eyes of Lainey, a formidable ADA whose sister comes up missing with no trace for over a year. Her partnering with Russ a cop places on a nail biting edge of your seat journey to uncover the truth and whew....what a journey. I won't dare to mention spoilers but I will state that if this book is not on your TBR you are missing out on a formidable reading experience.
February 15, 2023
This Book Was Soooo Good ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m giving this book 10 stars. The overall story and the supporting stories gave this book depth and life. The characters were flawed but felt so real. I wanted to write a review after reading about 13% of this book, it captured me from the beginning.
I have so many conflicting emotions after reading this book, because the victims look like people in my family, community, etc. However, this book was amazing.
Read this book.
I’m giving this book 10 stars. The overall story and the supporting stories gave this book depth and life. The characters were flawed but felt so real. I wanted to write a review after reading about 13% of this book, it captured me from the beginning.
I have so many conflicting emotions after reading this book, because the victims look like people in my family, community, etc. However, this book was amazing.
Read this book.
February 22, 2023
If suspense is your thing, read this one. I felt like I was on a episode of how to get away with murder.
February 17, 2023
Jane Doe
Jane Doe Black by Nia Forrester is a timely novel about what occurs when Black girls go missing and how they are treated by the justice system and media as opposed to white girls. But that’s just the premise. This book is about Lainey, an ADA whose sister goes missing after visiting her and a year later is still missing. Forrester goes inside Lainey’s head and heart and reveals a conflicted woman trying to navigate loss and an exhausting, exhaustive career. It also delves deeply into her struggles with drinking and relationships in the most honest way.
Lainey exasperated me but within the exasperation I saw, felt and understood her. Forrester laid her bare and that’s the authors gift to make us care about characters we aren’t sure we like—and to understand them. That’s no small task and Forrester excels at it. Highly recommended for mystery lovers and those who love great storytelling with complex characters.
Jane Doe Black by Nia Forrester is a timely novel about what occurs when Black girls go missing and how they are treated by the justice system and media as opposed to white girls. But that’s just the premise. This book is about Lainey, an ADA whose sister goes missing after visiting her and a year later is still missing. Forrester goes inside Lainey’s head and heart and reveals a conflicted woman trying to navigate loss and an exhausting, exhaustive career. It also delves deeply into her struggles with drinking and relationships in the most honest way.
Lainey exasperated me but within the exasperation I saw, felt and understood her. Forrester laid her bare and that’s the authors gift to make us care about characters we aren’t sure we like—and to understand them. That’s no small task and Forrester excels at it. Highly recommended for mystery lovers and those who love great storytelling with complex characters.
March 28, 2023
Waste of my time
I wanted to like the book but it’s such a mess. Took me three days to finish. Still couldn’t get through it. Elaine, life is such a mess, personally and professionally. The book was long for nothing with no conclusion.
I wanted to like the book but it’s such a mess. Took me three days to finish. Still couldn’t get through it. Elaine, life is such a mess, personally and professionally. The book was long for nothing with no conclusion.
February 21, 2023
Amazing
This book kept me up all night. Another great read by my favorite author. I can’t wait for the next installment.
This book kept me up all night. Another great read by my favorite author. I can’t wait for the next installment.
March 15, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I love a good mystery and Nia did not disappoint. The ending was a great twist because I didn’t see it coming. Looking forward to the next in the series. Nia is such a phenomenal writer!
February 19, 2023
New genre, no problem!
After romance, mystery suspense is my second favorite genre. And when one of my favorite authors announced that this was the direction she was taking, I was beyond excited! This book was compelling, provocative and intriguing. And once I delved into the complexities surrounding the unsolved missing persons case that was at the forefront of Lainey Abbott's motivation throughout, I was locked in! The synopsis gives you the background, so I won't recap that here. But I will say that this introduction by Nia Forrester into an area where we definitely need more of a presence, is both welcomed and greatly appreciated! And I'm absolutely looking forward to more to come. I could very easily see this being adapted into a movie, no doubt! Well done Nia! You stayed true to what I've come to expect when taking on any of your releases. A well-written, page-turning, eye-opening good story, that leaves the reader with much to ponder even after the end has been reached!
After romance, mystery suspense is my second favorite genre. And when one of my favorite authors announced that this was the direction she was taking, I was beyond excited! This book was compelling, provocative and intriguing. And once I delved into the complexities surrounding the unsolved missing persons case that was at the forefront of Lainey Abbott's motivation throughout, I was locked in! The synopsis gives you the background, so I won't recap that here. But I will say that this introduction by Nia Forrester into an area where we definitely need more of a presence, is both welcomed and greatly appreciated! And I'm absolutely looking forward to more to come. I could very easily see this being adapted into a movie, no doubt! Well done Nia! You stayed true to what I've come to expect when taking on any of your releases. A well-written, page-turning, eye-opening good story, that leaves the reader with much to ponder even after the end has been reached!
March 1, 2023
The Evolution of Nia Forrester…
It’s been a few days since I finished this book and while I still don’t quite have the words, I will try.
This story had me nervous, anxious, on edge and all the other adjectives that go along with reading a mystery/suspense novel, which is not at all my preferred genre but it was so worthwhile.
Ms. Forrester was conscientious in how she approached the subject matter of underreported missing women of color, flaws in the justice system, (her speciality)—conflicts of interest and I was here for it all 😳
At times this was an agonizing read and I wanted the pacing to be accelerated because I desperately wanted closure and resolution but what if the reader did not receive it like so many plagued with this heartache in real life.
I honestly would not have been able to handle the loose ends but because I trusted the author, I trusted the process and was not disappointed.
Nia did her thing with this book and may have found a new niche and while I love her more romance based stories, I actually did not care if this book had any or not, it was just that good. I would say that a mic drop is in order!
It’s been a few days since I finished this book and while I still don’t quite have the words, I will try.
This story had me nervous, anxious, on edge and all the other adjectives that go along with reading a mystery/suspense novel, which is not at all my preferred genre but it was so worthwhile.
Ms. Forrester was conscientious in how she approached the subject matter of underreported missing women of color, flaws in the justice system, (her speciality)—conflicts of interest and I was here for it all 😳
At times this was an agonizing read and I wanted the pacing to be accelerated because I desperately wanted closure and resolution but what if the reader did not receive it like so many plagued with this heartache in real life.
I honestly would not have been able to handle the loose ends but because I trusted the author, I trusted the process and was not disappointed.
Nia did her thing with this book and may have found a new niche and while I love her more romance based stories, I actually did not care if this book had any or not, it was just that good. I would say that a mic drop is in order!
February 28, 2023
I need the next book now!!
I knew I should've saved this until the next book, but I couldn't resist after reading the synopsis. Nia is one of my favorite authors & she hasn't disappointed me yet! The plot & characters kept me intrigued from beginning to end! I'm anticipating the next part of this story after reading the last chapters because I felt from jump there was foul play & I know Elaine is gonna be vicious in the next book when the truth comes to light. Until then...happy reading!!
I knew I should've saved this until the next book, but I couldn't resist after reading the synopsis. Nia is one of my favorite authors & she hasn't disappointed me yet! The plot & characters kept me intrigued from beginning to end! I'm anticipating the next part of this story after reading the last chapters because I felt from jump there was foul play & I know Elaine is gonna be vicious in the next book when the truth comes to light. Until then...happy reading!!
March 2, 2023
In Black and White….done right
Captivating from beginning to end. Nia Forrester does justice to this story in a way that was absent from the book mentioned in the title. Grief takes no prisoners. It’s like a bomb exploding in your life and the author illustrates just how well.
Excellent job Nia.
Captivating from beginning to end. Nia Forrester does justice to this story in a way that was absent from the book mentioned in the title. Grief takes no prisoners. It’s like a bomb exploding in your life and the author illustrates just how well.
Excellent job Nia.
February 17, 2023
EXCELLENT! AWESOME! 5 Stars plus
This book was so good. I love this genre for Nia. Can't wait for the next one.
This book was so good. I love this genre for Nia. Can't wait for the next one.
February 26, 2023
Good read…
This was a well written book. I fell in love with Nia Forrester as an author because of her unique way of carving black love in a way that showcases two imperfect people who commit to making it work, as such I was a little disappointed that this new genre didn’t have that these at the forefront. That will always be my preference from this author, nonetheless, this was a good read.
This was a well written book. I fell in love with Nia Forrester as an author because of her unique way of carving black love in a way that showcases two imperfect people who commit to making it work, as such I was a little disappointed that this new genre didn’t have that these at the forefront. That will always be my preference from this author, nonetheless, this was a good read.
May 2, 2023
Overall, 3.5 stars. Elaine is trying to hold everything together after her sister is missing. She deals with trying to balance work and home life. She even seems to try and deal with her relationship/relationships with friends and her love interests. The book had a lot of fillers that made it really long.
I like how there were some parts that made you think about the injustices that happen when women of color or missing versus others.
I like how there were some parts that made you think about the injustices that happen when women of color or missing versus others.
February 16, 2023
review to come
February 26, 2023
Very Hard
What a great story and very sad. Poor Lainey had to go through a very hard time and thanks good she had Russ. She had a reason to drink, and was glad she stopped. Also, thanks for letting us hear Steph story. Please write another book so we will know if her body was found.
What a great story and very sad. Poor Lainey had to go through a very hard time and thanks good she had Russ. She had a reason to drink, and was glad she stopped. Also, thanks for letting us hear Steph story. Please write another book so we will know if her body was found.
February 27, 2023
Wellll
This book had me on edge the whole time I was reading it OH MY GOODNESS! The underbelly of the legal world. The fragility of life. The ending I CANNOT. Definitely worth the read, just put your mental gymnastics hat on. This is not the usual HEA.
This book had me on edge the whole time I was reading it OH MY GOODNESS! The underbelly of the legal world. The fragility of life. The ending I CANNOT. Definitely worth the read, just put your mental gymnastics hat on. This is not the usual HEA.
February 23, 2023
Loved it!
Ooh where to start! I have been a fan of Nia Forrester for years and when she said she was going to write in another genre, I was all in. We meet Lainey who is an assistant DA whose sister goes missing. We see her almost self destruct while trying to figure out what happened to her sister. There are other things that are make the story interesting and riveting. I loved how Lainey evolved. And there were plenty of twists that I didn’t see coming. I hope we see more of Lainey!
Ooh where to start! I have been a fan of Nia Forrester for years and when she said she was going to write in another genre, I was all in. We meet Lainey who is an assistant DA whose sister goes missing. We see her almost self destruct while trying to figure out what happened to her sister. There are other things that are make the story interesting and riveting. I loved how Lainey evolved. And there were plenty of twists that I didn’t see coming. I hope we see more of Lainey!
February 25, 2023
Spellbinding!
I love Nia's writing style and this book fell right in line. The characters are well developed, social issues are addressed and the
plot was diverse as it kept moving. Additionally, it had an unexpected ending. So, if you are looking for a great weekend read this is it.
I love Nia's writing style and this book fell right in line. The characters are well developed, social issues are addressed and the
plot was diverse as it kept moving. Additionally, it had an unexpected ending. So, if you are looking for a great weekend read this is it.
February 23, 2023
A great new series starts here!
Nia Forrester is damn good at her job!! She has created an interesting world with complex, layered characters, setting up a wealth of potential storylines. And the dialogue!! Whew!! I also appreciate the way this book dives into crime/suspense territory; feels different from her other books in a good way.
Nia Forrester is damn good at her job!! She has created an interesting world with complex, layered characters, setting up a wealth of potential storylines. And the dialogue!! Whew!! I also appreciate the way this book dives into crime/suspense territory; feels different from her other books in a good way.
April 12, 2023
JAW ON THE FLOOR. WIG FLYING IN THE AIR. Gurlll I was not expecting that honestly.
I cried so much reading this. It was an anxious sad cry. The one that brings pain to your chest and makes you rock back and forth. I am hurt by this book. For many reasons. One being that Lainey never got the answers she needed; he that she will feel guilty for the rest of her life. That THAT B**** will get away with ******* ****. Sigh.
Perfect writing, perfect plot, perfect pacing, perfect character development, perfect, perfect, perfect. Except for it being a little bit too slow; half of the chapters could have been cut. But I will not be reading the rest of the series. At least not a few years after it’s released. I need time to grieve properly.
I cried so much reading this. It was an anxious sad cry. The one that brings pain to your chest and makes you rock back and forth. I am hurt by this book. For many reasons. One being that Lainey never got the answers she needed; he that she will feel guilty for the rest of her life. That THAT B**** will get away with ******* ****. Sigh.
Perfect writing, perfect plot, perfect pacing, perfect character development, perfect, perfect, perfect. Except for it being a little bit too slow; half of the chapters could have been cut. But I will not be reading the rest of the series. At least not a few years after it’s released. I need time to grieve properly.
May 6, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. As a fan of Nia Forrester other books, I knew I would enjoy this book, not only is she a phenomenal author but as soon as I saw the cover and the book description, I was interested/ so excited.
This was my first time reading this particular genre and I was not disappointed. This will definitely not be my last reading the mystery/suspense/thriller genre.
I was so intrigued and at the edge of my seat as each event unfolded.
I loved that I learnt how the judicial system works also well as showcasing how sadly missing black women are treated.
I cannot wait until Summer 2023 when the second book comes out. I am looking forward to seeing whether there will ever be a happily ever after with Lainey and Russ and whether justice will ever be served for Stephanie.
If you are looking for a crime mystery/suspense book with a tiny splash of romance that will keep you up reading all night I recommend Jane Doe Black book 1. You will not be disappointed.
This was my first time reading this particular genre and I was not disappointed. This will definitely not be my last reading the mystery/suspense/thriller genre.
I was so intrigued and at the edge of my seat as each event unfolded.
I loved that I learnt how the judicial system works also well as showcasing how sadly missing black women are treated.
I cannot wait until Summer 2023 when the second book comes out. I am looking forward to seeing whether there will ever be a happily ever after with Lainey and Russ and whether justice will ever be served for Stephanie.
If you are looking for a crime mystery/suspense book with a tiny splash of romance that will keep you up reading all night I recommend Jane Doe Black book 1. You will not be disappointed.
March 8, 2023
Trust Nia
This was a departure and a scary one. I had to read during the daytime, when I usually look forward to hiding under the covers after everyone goes to sleep to enjoy my faves.
Nia always gives me a great read. I just wasn’t expecting L&O, which I enjoy. I loved it and am looking forward to what I’m assuming is a series.
This was a departure and a scary one. I had to read during the daytime, when I usually look forward to hiding under the covers after everyone goes to sleep to enjoy my faves.
Nia always gives me a great read. I just wasn’t expecting L&O, which I enjoy. I loved it and am looking forward to what I’m assuming is a series.
December 30, 2023
Wow...just wow. There are so many things, so many layers I want discuss after finishing this book but I don't even really know where to start.
I guess i'll start with the fact that Jane Doe Black is a complete depature from the types of books I'm used to reading by Nia. Nia Forrester is a one click author for me. I've read about 75% of her catalogue, and all of those books have been what I would categorize as 'real world contemporary romance.' Nia doesn't write the her romance books in the typical structure we're used to seeing. She tells the stories of what happens in a relationship and with couples AFTER the honey moon phase...after the so called 'happily ever after.' Jane Doe Black isn't that at all! And I'm glad I knew that going into reading it, otherwise I don't think I would have enjoyed it as much as I did.
Jane Doe Black follows Lainey Abbott, a NY Assistant District Attorney, who's sister goes missing after a weekend visit, and still isn't found over a year after having gone missing. Its a mystery novel but more than that, its a commentary on the justice system and the lack of justice that happens for Black and Brown folks, even when those involved are working WITHIN that system. Its a story about the grief, confusion, anger, and despair that occurs for those left behind when a loved one goes missing and the powers that be don't care enough to do anything about it. Its about the blowback and collateral damage from the grief, anger, confusion and despair experienced by those left behind and how friendships, relationships, and careers can completely unravel or implode as a result. Like I said...LAYERS!
Again...If I had not gone into this book, knowing that it was a mystery and something different from what I've read by Nia in the past, I do not think I would have enjoyed it as much as I did. Because it was a definite slow mover. While I love new and unique stories, theres a level of comfort in knowing the structure and cadence of the book you're going to read. This book was the antithesis of that, because the entire time you're in the dark about what happened to Laineys sister along with her, you're on the same hunt for answers as her, you're getting the same tid bits of information that don't really make sense or fit together, but still feel immensely important, and you don't get any closure or reprieve until the very end. All of which is SOOOO much harder to get through when its not something you're used to. But it was SO good, going through those motions of investigation with Lainey, seeing all the pieces start to fit together, and living Lainey's life and going through her struggles with her. It felt like I was there, getting frustrated, discouraged, and hopeful right along with her.
I enjoyed getting what felt like a real peek inside the justice system through the eyes of both prosecutors and defense attorneys. For the first time EVER, I didn't completely cringe and get annoyed by the slight love triangle introduced between Lainey, Greg, and Russ. As much as it pained me, I enjoyed going on the journey of trying to figure out what happened to Lainey's sister Steph, being shocked by some of the revelations and rooting for Lainey to stand strong against her demons after each one. And though it pisses me off and frustrates me to no end, I appreciated the honesty and authenticity in reading a story about how someone working within, for, and upholding the justice system, still does not benefit from that very same system because the system wasn't built to work for someone with her color skin.
Its a crazy parallel to draw, but it reminded me of the challenges Beyonce said she faced in creating Renaissance, being a black woman in the entertaininment industry, and having the people who work for you play in your face. Even with all her success and having proven herself, she still has to fight tooth and nail to get what she wants because at the end of the day, regardless of how much money she's made, how many awards and accolades she has, she's still just a Black Woman in America. And in the case of Laieny, even being a NY assistant district attorney, working for the state and working the system to "put away the bad guys," when the time came for the system to work for her, Lainey and her sister were left hanging. Because at the end of that day, assistant district attorney or not, she's still just a Black Women in America, working in a system that wasn't meant to work for people like us.
This was an excellent book, with excellent writing. Something completely new and different from Nia Forrester that I very much enjoyed, and I can't wait to get started on the next one.
I guess i'll start with the fact that Jane Doe Black is a complete depature from the types of books I'm used to reading by Nia. Nia Forrester is a one click author for me. I've read about 75% of her catalogue, and all of those books have been what I would categorize as 'real world contemporary romance.' Nia doesn't write the her romance books in the typical structure we're used to seeing. She tells the stories of what happens in a relationship and with couples AFTER the honey moon phase...after the so called 'happily ever after.' Jane Doe Black isn't that at all! And I'm glad I knew that going into reading it, otherwise I don't think I would have enjoyed it as much as I did.
Jane Doe Black follows Lainey Abbott, a NY Assistant District Attorney, who's sister goes missing after a weekend visit, and still isn't found over a year after having gone missing. Its a mystery novel but more than that, its a commentary on the justice system and the lack of justice that happens for Black and Brown folks, even when those involved are working WITHIN that system. Its a story about the grief, confusion, anger, and despair that occurs for those left behind when a loved one goes missing and the powers that be don't care enough to do anything about it. Its about the blowback and collateral damage from the grief, anger, confusion and despair experienced by those left behind and how friendships, relationships, and careers can completely unravel or implode as a result. Like I said...LAYERS!
Again...If I had not gone into this book, knowing that it was a mystery and something different from what I've read by Nia in the past, I do not think I would have enjoyed it as much as I did. Because it was a definite slow mover. While I love new and unique stories, theres a level of comfort in knowing the structure and cadence of the book you're going to read. This book was the antithesis of that, because the entire time you're in the dark about what happened to Laineys sister along with her, you're on the same hunt for answers as her, you're getting the same tid bits of information that don't really make sense or fit together, but still feel immensely important, and you don't get any closure or reprieve until the very end. All of which is SOOOO much harder to get through when its not something you're used to. But it was SO good, going through those motions of investigation with Lainey, seeing all the pieces start to fit together, and living Lainey's life and going through her struggles with her. It felt like I was there, getting frustrated, discouraged, and hopeful right along with her.
I enjoyed getting what felt like a real peek inside the justice system through the eyes of both prosecutors and defense attorneys. For the first time EVER, I didn't completely cringe and get annoyed by the slight love triangle introduced between Lainey, Greg, and Russ. As much as it pained me, I enjoyed going on the journey of trying to figure out what happened to Lainey's sister Steph, being shocked by some of the revelations and rooting for Lainey to stand strong against her demons after each one. And though it pisses me off and frustrates me to no end, I appreciated the honesty and authenticity in reading a story about how someone working within, for, and upholding the justice system, still does not benefit from that very same system because the system wasn't built to work for someone with her color skin.
Its a crazy parallel to draw, but it reminded me of the challenges Beyonce said she faced in creating Renaissance, being a black woman in the entertaininment industry, and having the people who work for you play in your face. Even with all her success and having proven herself, she still has to fight tooth and nail to get what she wants because at the end of the day, regardless of how much money she's made, how many awards and accolades she has, she's still just a Black Woman in America. And in the case of Laieny, even being a NY assistant district attorney, working for the state and working the system to "put away the bad guys," when the time came for the system to work for her, Lainey and her sister were left hanging. Because at the end of that day, assistant district attorney or not, she's still just a Black Women in America, working in a system that wasn't meant to work for people like us.
This was an excellent book, with excellent writing. Something completely new and different from Nia Forrester that I very much enjoyed, and I can't wait to get started on the next one.
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