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Forever After All
Jashae Rodgers thought her life was all planned out and her happily ever after was within her reach, but tragedy strikes, leaving her with nothing but pieces of her life to pick up. After being thrust into single motherhood, she focuses on being the best mother she can be while struggling with grief she’s convinced she’d never recover from. But an unsuspecting spark from a man makes her consider the impossible.
Monogamy and commitment are the two words that don’t exist in Caine Bellamy’s world. Witnessing the tumultuous relationship between his parents led him to bed-hopping, and he pushed the idea of a long-term relationship out of his mind. Until one day, he comes face to face with a woman who sets his heart ablaze, challenging everything he’s told himself.
A chance encounter between Jashae and Caine leaves her skeptical and afraid to give love another shot. Can she push through her reluctance to give love one more chance? And Caine is convinced there’s no woman alive who can make him reconsider his vow not to succumb to forever. But is there?
Will Caine allow love to beat him at his own game? Will Jashae give in and agree to the siren call of love? Find out in the Contemporary Romance within the pages of Forever After All.
Monogamy and commitment are the two words that don’t exist in Caine Bellamy’s world. Witnessing the tumultuous relationship between his parents led him to bed-hopping, and he pushed the idea of a long-term relationship out of his mind. Until one day, he comes face to face with a woman who sets his heart ablaze, challenging everything he’s told himself.
A chance encounter between Jashae and Caine leaves her skeptical and afraid to give love another shot. Can she push through her reluctance to give love one more chance? And Caine is convinced there’s no woman alive who can make him reconsider his vow not to succumb to forever. But is there?
Will Caine allow love to beat him at his own game? Will Jashae give in and agree to the siren call of love? Find out in the Contemporary Romance within the pages of Forever After All.
199 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2023
415 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
October 10, 2023
Really cute story…the transitions between scenes were a little rough….I love a good HEA.
September 28, 2023
The man on the cover.. Mmmmmm!
If nothing else was going on with the story, the man on the cover was certainly worth considering the story. Thankfully, the story matched his handsomeness. Is that even a word? Anyway. It was a joy to meet Jashae, her baby girl and Mr. Handsome, Caine. There were so many good parts in this story, along with the craziness with the brothers. A side note: I think the author intended to take the story in a different direction with the constant mentions of baby girls hazel eyes, and just let the idea go. Maybe we will learn why that point was important in another story. And the brothers need more stage time. The parents made me hoot with laughter. Their always young acting behavior was too funny. You will laugh out loud as you read this one. 4.5 stars.
If nothing else was going on with the story, the man on the cover was certainly worth considering the story. Thankfully, the story matched his handsomeness. Is that even a word? Anyway. It was a joy to meet Jashae, her baby girl and Mr. Handsome, Caine. There were so many good parts in this story, along with the craziness with the brothers. A side note: I think the author intended to take the story in a different direction with the constant mentions of baby girls hazel eyes, and just let the idea go. Maybe we will learn why that point was important in another story. And the brothers need more stage time. The parents made me hoot with laughter. Their always young acting behavior was too funny. You will laugh out loud as you read this one. 4.5 stars.
July 31, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. Great story about heartbreak and grief and finding love again. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
September 28, 2023
Love Blossoms in “Forever After All”
📚 Just finished reading "Forever After All" by Riley Baxter, and I'm absolutely hooked! This book had me in stitches thanks to Mom, Pops, and Nino's hilarious antics throughout.
Caine's unexpected journey from a "smash and dash" mindset to finding love with Jashae is incredibly touching. Their love story is a testament to the power of change and connection.
The portrayal of their support systems was so touching. Jashae's resilience in the face of adversity and Caine's transformation warmed my heart. And that first date night Caine planned? Pure magic!
I can't help but wonder if Nino will ever find his special someone – he's too funny to stay single! Riley Baxter, you've crafted an amazing story, and I can't wait for more.
📚 Just finished reading "Forever After All" by Riley Baxter, and I'm absolutely hooked! This book had me in stitches thanks to Mom, Pops, and Nino's hilarious antics throughout.
Caine's unexpected journey from a "smash and dash" mindset to finding love with Jashae is incredibly touching. Their love story is a testament to the power of change and connection.
The portrayal of their support systems was so touching. Jashae's resilience in the face of adversity and Caine's transformation warmed my heart. And that first date night Caine planned? Pure magic!
I can't help but wonder if Nino will ever find his special someone – he's too funny to stay single! Riley Baxter, you've crafted an amazing story, and I can't wait for more.
February 16, 2024
This was sooo freakin’ good 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥
Bay-be Author Riley Baxter gave me all the feels with this insta-love.
My heart broke for Jashae. To have to deal with the loss of her love while casting for a newborn who would never get the chance to know her father was so 💔.
Caine was closed off to love due to his toxic a** parents 🙄. His momma more than his daddy, cause that woman played too many games to be as old as she was, smdh. I honestly didn’t blame him for stirring clear of relationships.
A chance encounter has these two in awe of each other. Had them both tongue tied, and thinking of each other weeks after meeting. They both have valid reasons for not wanting to pursue anything, but finds themselves unable to shake the feelings that stir within their souls whenever they cross paths. Caine decided to stop ignoring the longing he had to get to know the beauty that had him feeling things he’s never felt, and applying all the pressure to insure that Jashae knew that he wanted her, and he daughter Amani. I thoroughly enjoyed their journey. Their families were amazing, and kept me laughing especially that dang Nino and their parents.
Khardel’s momma was a piece of work. The way she did Jashae and Amani after the loss her son was just sad. Money truly changes people and she showed her true colors. Her son was such an amazing man, and it showed in the provisions he put in place to insure that Jashae or his daughter never want for anything.
I hope Nino speaks to you soon cause we need his book ASAP 😂
IT’S A MUST READ FOR ME!!!
Bay-be Author Riley Baxter gave me all the feels with this insta-love.
My heart broke for Jashae. To have to deal with the loss of her love while casting for a newborn who would never get the chance to know her father was so 💔.
Caine was closed off to love due to his toxic a** parents 🙄. His momma more than his daddy, cause that woman played too many games to be as old as she was, smdh. I honestly didn’t blame him for stirring clear of relationships.
A chance encounter has these two in awe of each other. Had them both tongue tied, and thinking of each other weeks after meeting. They both have valid reasons for not wanting to pursue anything, but finds themselves unable to shake the feelings that stir within their souls whenever they cross paths. Caine decided to stop ignoring the longing he had to get to know the beauty that had him feeling things he’s never felt, and applying all the pressure to insure that Jashae knew that he wanted her, and he daughter Amani. I thoroughly enjoyed their journey. Their families were amazing, and kept me laughing especially that dang Nino and their parents.
Khardel’s momma was a piece of work. The way she did Jashae and Amani after the loss her son was just sad. Money truly changes people and she showed her true colors. Her son was such an amazing man, and it showed in the provisions he put in place to insure that Jashae or his daughter never want for anything.
I hope Nino speaks to you soon cause we need his book ASAP 😂
IT’S A MUST READ FOR ME!!!
June 28, 2024
Honestly didn’t expect this to be a five star read with how I kept putting it off but I am obsessed. This book was great. The chemistry, the family, the conversations- it was all there! Jashae and Caine were just too cute to me!
April 16, 2025
The Bellamy family is funny. The love story is cute enough. The narration for the audiobook did not add to the book.
March 21, 2024
okay.
This was a good introduction to this author’s work. It’s a story about grief and healing and finding love on heroine, Jashae’s part, and one of kind of growing up and maturing and learning what it means to step up and love someone deeply on Caine’s part.
I think this would have been stronger if some of the deeper plot points had been delved into a bit more (e.g. what’s the deal with Jashae’s mother or building out the situation with Khardel’s mother which was kind of flashed for no purpose and nothing was really done with it or even understanding Caine’s parent’s relationship and what’s really going on there). Sometimes it was a bit chaotic especially with the gregarious joking bits and it missed low-hanging opportunities to really dig into some of the nuances the author was seeding and be more meaningful.
The other thing is didn’t like was the sort of misogyny of Nino and Caine being public peens out and about drunkenly being with random women and waking up to find themselves so and then having the temerity to engage in shaming behaviour- the hypocrisy as they sloppily went about their own sex lives was a bit hard to take especially with no sense of self-irony. I wasn’t a huge fan of Nino’s as a I knew he was meant to be funny but 99% of the time was doing too much and at his grown age adding unneeded chaos to every situation but he certainly was a character and I see why people might like him.
In all, I don’t know if I’m necessarily interested in the next book (Nino’s book), but I would read this author again.
This was a good introduction to this author’s work. It’s a story about grief and healing and finding love on heroine, Jashae’s part, and one of kind of growing up and maturing and learning what it means to step up and love someone deeply on Caine’s part.
I think this would have been stronger if some of the deeper plot points had been delved into a bit more (e.g. what’s the deal with Jashae’s mother or building out the situation with Khardel’s mother which was kind of flashed for no purpose and nothing was really done with it or even understanding Caine’s parent’s relationship and what’s really going on there). Sometimes it was a bit chaotic especially with the gregarious joking bits and it missed low-hanging opportunities to really dig into some of the nuances the author was seeding and be more meaningful.
The other thing is didn’t like was the sort of misogyny of Nino and Caine being public peens out and about drunkenly being with random women and waking up to find themselves so and then having the temerity to engage in shaming behaviour- the hypocrisy as they sloppily went about their own sex lives was a bit hard to take especially with no sense of self-irony. I wasn’t a huge fan of Nino’s as a I knew he was meant to be funny but 99% of the time was doing too much and at his grown age adding unneeded chaos to every situation but he certainly was a character and I see why people might like him.
In all, I don’t know if I’m necessarily interested in the next book (Nino’s book), but I would read this author again.
October 4, 2025
This book moved really fast, but it was soooo funny. If you can get past the opposite gender narration, it’s a good book to listen to. I can’t wait for Nino’s book. He kept me laughing.
April 2, 2024
Riley!!!
Such a good read!! They way I lmao through this book!! Nino and the parents were fools! However the main character internal thoughts is what took me down. Hilarious! I love a good insta love. The minute he saw her he knew he would have to turn in his player card. And I am happy she did not let grief consume her! Now I’m ready for Nino to get turned out!!!
Such a good read!! They way I lmao through this book!! Nino and the parents were fools! However the main character internal thoughts is what took me down. Hilarious! I love a good insta love. The minute he saw her he knew he would have to turn in his player card. And I am happy she did not let grief consume her! Now I’m ready for Nino to get turned out!!!
October 31, 2024
A Great Read
I absolutely loved the book! Despite the tough challenges she faced, God truly came through for her in such a remarkable way, especially through Caine and everything he brought into her life. The way he cherished and took care of her and Amani was simply beautiful to witness! And can we talk about Nino? He was absolutely hilarious! 🤣🤣🤣
I absolutely loved the book! Despite the tough challenges she faced, God truly came through for her in such a remarkable way, especially through Caine and everything he brought into her life. The way he cherished and took care of her and Amani was simply beautiful to witness! And can we talk about Nino? He was absolutely hilarious! 🤣🤣🤣
July 26, 2024
Find love unexpectedly
When the timing is right, things fall into place as they should. Caine and Jashae find love unexpectedly and it settles their souls in ways they never could imagine. Nino's a straight fool with it, any and every thing comes outta his mouth.
When the timing is right, things fall into place as they should. Caine and Jashae find love unexpectedly and it settles their souls in ways they never could imagine. Nino's a straight fool with it, any and every thing comes outta his mouth.
January 20, 2024
I love a book that makes me laugh and I laughed out loud several times. Everybody involved was a mess but I loved it
June 27, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
It was a tiny bit rushed, but overall, It was a good book. Cute story.
It was a tiny bit rushed, but overall, It was a good book. Cute story.
February 5, 2024
I want to give this book a higher rating, but I just cannot. First of all, it took way too long for them to connect. even after the initial first meet, it took them forever to connect again. it gave us only a few short chapters of them dating and even then, it seemed a little flat. I understand jashae being hesitant to love again, but even when caine was trying to engage in conversation, she wasn't giving much. idk- that bothered me. ms. shante? wow, completely outta pocket. she would've had to get smacked off rip. kudos to caine for handling that.
I loved how caine took the daughter in with no problems, but I didn't like that they changed her last name. seeing that her father technically died and not just left them, I kind of feel like they could've kept her last name, but I do understand not wanting her to be left out of the family.
nino, somewhat annoying. he and caine's banter throughout the book was just way too childish for my liking. the constant name calling and disrespect towards women was excessive. their mom and dad, my GAWD. grow up. they were my least favorite characters. even their conversations to each other and with the kids, were just over the top.
I loved how caine took the daughter in with no problems, but I didn't like that they changed her last name. seeing that her father technically died and not just left them, I kind of feel like they could've kept her last name, but I do understand not wanting her to be left out of the family.
nino, somewhat annoying. he and caine's banter throughout the book was just way too childish for my liking. the constant name calling and disrespect towards women was excessive. their mom and dad, my GAWD. grow up. they were my least favorite characters. even their conversations to each other and with the kids, were just over the top.
June 16, 2025
3.5 stars. Sweet story, but a little underwhelming in places. Forever After All had the potential to be a really emotional, layered romance, and while there were definitely moments I enjoyed, a few things held it back from being a standout for me.
The story follows Jashae and Caine—both dealing with their own pain and complicated pasts—who slowly start to find comfort and maybe even love in one another. It’s the kind of setup that promises slow-burn romance and deep emotional healing, which is exactly what I was hoping for.
But for me, the connection between the main characters took forever to really develop. I love a slow burn, but this one dragged just a little too long without enough spark early on to keep me fully invested. And while there were some heavy themes introduced (like trauma and loss), they weren’t explored as deeply as they could’ve been. It felt like the plot skimmed the surface of some really meaningful storylines.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narration was difficult to listen to and it constantly took me out of the story. I might have connected more with the story more if I had read it on my Kindle, so that’s the plan for books two and three.
That said, the writing is heartfelt, and there are definitely some sweet, touching moments once things get going.
The story follows Jashae and Caine—both dealing with their own pain and complicated pasts—who slowly start to find comfort and maybe even love in one another. It’s the kind of setup that promises slow-burn romance and deep emotional healing, which is exactly what I was hoping for.
But for me, the connection between the main characters took forever to really develop. I love a slow burn, but this one dragged just a little too long without enough spark early on to keep me fully invested. And while there were some heavy themes introduced (like trauma and loss), they weren’t explored as deeply as they could’ve been. It felt like the plot skimmed the surface of some really meaningful storylines.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narration was difficult to listen to and it constantly took me out of the story. I might have connected more with the story more if I had read it on my Kindle, so that’s the plan for books two and three.
That said, the writing is heartfelt, and there are definitely some sweet, touching moments once things get going.
October 3, 2023
Caine and Jashae!!!
Caine owns a tattoo parlor and living his best life with woman after woman and Jashae is a wedding planner who is not looking to date since she is still grieving as well as being a single mother. Caine and Jashae meet by happenstance when Jashae goes with one of her brides to Caine's shop for tattoos. Caine becomes smitten from the very beginning while doing Jashae's tattoo. Caine couldn't get Jashae off of his mind so he decided to pursue her. It took some time but Jashae finally decided to give Caine a chance. Caine happily turned in his player card and just fell totally in love with Jashae and Amani. Amani was such a sweetheart and I fell in love with her too. I couldn't understand her trifling grandmother and how she reacted to the situation. The passion between Caine and Jashae was 🔥🔥🔥. Nino was a total mess and I hope we get his book soon. I don't know why Riley felt like she had to make me cry in the first chapter but my heart just broke for Jashae and what she had went through. She had to struggle to overcome the worst heartbreak ever. I loved how her aunt and cousin were there for her in her time of need. This was a very good and emotional book that you need to read and experience.
Caine owns a tattoo parlor and living his best life with woman after woman and Jashae is a wedding planner who is not looking to date since she is still grieving as well as being a single mother. Caine and Jashae meet by happenstance when Jashae goes with one of her brides to Caine's shop for tattoos. Caine becomes smitten from the very beginning while doing Jashae's tattoo. Caine couldn't get Jashae off of his mind so he decided to pursue her. It took some time but Jashae finally decided to give Caine a chance. Caine happily turned in his player card and just fell totally in love with Jashae and Amani. Amani was such a sweetheart and I fell in love with her too. I couldn't understand her trifling grandmother and how she reacted to the situation. The passion between Caine and Jashae was 🔥🔥🔥. Nino was a total mess and I hope we get his book soon. I don't know why Riley felt like she had to make me cry in the first chapter but my heart just broke for Jashae and what she had went through. She had to struggle to overcome the worst heartbreak ever. I loved how her aunt and cousin were there for her in her time of need. This was a very good and emotional book that you need to read and experience.
November 17, 2024
Quick read. It’s the first I’ve read by Riley Baxter. Her writing style appears to still be developing. The conversations between the brothers were raw and funny and unfiltered.
For all the initial talk about his total lack of interest in settling down and marrying, all it took was a pretty face, a couple of chance encounters, and some good good and he was ready to forget all the mess he’d said about marriage given the example his parents presented.
The story was predictable and I didn’t really get beginning romance, conflict, and resolution that I like to encounter in a plot line., nor did it have a progression of character growth. The transitions between scenes didn’t give the characters time to develop but they managed to fall in love. There was a missed opportunity to really dive into the conflict of Caine never wanting to turn in his player card to be a “simp” The relationship, like the chapters, hopped from him and his brother talking about never getting married to them being head over heels.
Overall the idea of the story was good and as the author continues to develop, I would read other stories. If you’re interested in a quick, uncomplicated urban romance, with a happy ending, this’ll work.
For all the initial talk about his total lack of interest in settling down and marrying, all it took was a pretty face, a couple of chance encounters, and some good good and he was ready to forget all the mess he’d said about marriage given the example his parents presented.
The story was predictable and I didn’t really get beginning romance, conflict, and resolution that I like to encounter in a plot line., nor did it have a progression of character growth. The transitions between scenes didn’t give the characters time to develop but they managed to fall in love. There was a missed opportunity to really dive into the conflict of Caine never wanting to turn in his player card to be a “simp” The relationship, like the chapters, hopped from him and his brother talking about never getting married to them being head over heels.
Overall the idea of the story was good and as the author continues to develop, I would read other stories. If you’re interested in a quick, uncomplicated urban romance, with a happy ending, this’ll work.
November 26, 2025
Caine and JaShae, Love Happens For Us Too
When the right person comes along and love you through your pain and help you heal the brokenness of your heart to love again!!!…
This story made my heart smile because a loss like the one Jashae suffered will have you 2nd guessing everything!!!…I love that she sought help at the encouragement of her auntie!!!…Needing to be better for her daughter also motivated her and was an even greater reason to get her life back on track!!!…
Caine enters the picture and realized that with the right woman, you will definitely be willing to shift some things because she’s worth settling down with!!!…Now he’s looking fwd to fatherhood and marriage!!!…
Shante heart was broken, that pain led her to be angry at her son for not leaving her anything after his passing!!!…I was proud tha Khardel had the mind to put things in place to take care of Jashae and their daughter!!!…
Jashae was definitely the bigger person to handle Khardel’a mother’s burial after the way she treated her and abandoned her granddaughter!!!…
I love me some Nino and I hope there is more coming about him!!!..
I was glad that Caine and Nino’s parents finally got married!!!…That hospital scene had me cracking up!!!…
When the right person comes along and love you through your pain and help you heal the brokenness of your heart to love again!!!…
This story made my heart smile because a loss like the one Jashae suffered will have you 2nd guessing everything!!!…I love that she sought help at the encouragement of her auntie!!!…Needing to be better for her daughter also motivated her and was an even greater reason to get her life back on track!!!…
Caine enters the picture and realized that with the right woman, you will definitely be willing to shift some things because she’s worth settling down with!!!…Now he’s looking fwd to fatherhood and marriage!!!…
Shante heart was broken, that pain led her to be angry at her son for not leaving her anything after his passing!!!…I was proud tha Khardel had the mind to put things in place to take care of Jashae and their daughter!!!…
Jashae was definitely the bigger person to handle Khardel’a mother’s burial after the way she treated her and abandoned her granddaughter!!!…
I love me some Nino and I hope there is more coming about him!!!..
I was glad that Caine and Nino’s parents finally got married!!!…That hospital scene had me cracking up!!!…
November 2, 2023
Shred your player cards
Cain is the epitome of when you find the right one. Nothing will stand in your way ✨️ I love how jashea family didn't allow the grief to overwhelmed her by getting her the help she need to be able to handle the grief so she can be there for her daughter. I wanted more when It came to the conversation with her aunt about her mom. I wanted the author to explore it instead of just mentioning it but not saying anything about it. I also love how Cain took notes and planned their first date, like that part had me swooning 🥰🥰🥰. Little Amani had Cain so wrapped around his fingers it was so cute, Nino Nino this mfk is crazy 🤪 🤣🤣 especially their parents as well like the whole family has issues 😂😂😂. Shante piss me off as well. Like girl, where were you when your daughter-in-law and granddaughter needed you, but you had the audacity to show up making claims because your son failed to take care of you in case he dead which he did and he left you nothing and at the if I was jashea I would've left her ass to the state and let them bury her ass but overall I love this book and i think it's a great book to read or add to your TBR
Cain is the epitome of when you find the right one. Nothing will stand in your way ✨️ I love how jashea family didn't allow the grief to overwhelmed her by getting her the help she need to be able to handle the grief so she can be there for her daughter. I wanted more when It came to the conversation with her aunt about her mom. I wanted the author to explore it instead of just mentioning it but not saying anything about it. I also love how Cain took notes and planned their first date, like that part had me swooning 🥰🥰🥰. Little Amani had Cain so wrapped around his fingers it was so cute, Nino Nino this mfk is crazy 🤪 🤣🤣 especially their parents as well like the whole family has issues 😂😂😂. Shante piss me off as well. Like girl, where were you when your daughter-in-law and granddaughter needed you, but you had the audacity to show up making claims because your son failed to take care of you in case he dead which he did and he left you nothing and at the if I was jashea I would've left her ass to the state and let them bury her ass but overall I love this book and i think it's a great book to read or add to your TBR
March 22, 2024
Loved this book!!! Sooo good!!!
I've been meaning to check out this author catalog ever since I read her book from the Tennessee Whiskey series. But time got away from me. But when I saw this book cover on social media I KNEW I had to read it. And whewwweee Chile this book is a banger!!
Caine never saw himself as a settle-with-one-woman type of dude until he saw Jashae in his tattoo shop. Jashae never thought she could ever give her heart to another man other than her daughter Amani's father. But fate stepped in and brought these two people together. Their journey to a happily ever after was such a pleasure to read. The chemistry, compassion, realness, and friendship, along with the steamy sexual flirtation and BDE between Caine and Jashae had this reader in a chokehold. I didn't want this book to end. Yes, it was that good. I remembered why I loved this author's writing. And she didn't disappoint. Everyone deserves a Caine Bellamy in their lives. I can't wait to read Nino's story. All that smack he was talking about never being with one woman. I love to love reading about him falling in love and losing his Playa card for good. 😆
I've been meaning to check out this author catalog ever since I read her book from the Tennessee Whiskey series. But time got away from me. But when I saw this book cover on social media I KNEW I had to read it. And whewwweee Chile this book is a banger!!
Caine never saw himself as a settle-with-one-woman type of dude until he saw Jashae in his tattoo shop. Jashae never thought she could ever give her heart to another man other than her daughter Amani's father. But fate stepped in and brought these two people together. Their journey to a happily ever after was such a pleasure to read. The chemistry, compassion, realness, and friendship, along with the steamy sexual flirtation and BDE between Caine and Jashae had this reader in a chokehold. I didn't want this book to end. Yes, it was that good. I remembered why I loved this author's writing. And she didn't disappoint. Everyone deserves a Caine Bellamy in their lives. I can't wait to read Nino's story. All that smack he was talking about never being with one woman. I love to love reading about him falling in love and losing his Playa card for good. 😆
September 28, 2023
Forever after all
This was such a good book. The relationship between Caine and Jashae was a bit of a slow burn but I loved them together and I liked that because it was such a slow burn, we were able to see them both grow and change where necessary. I loved how Caine moved when it concerned Jashae and Amani and he was all in. I loved that Caine saw the error of following in his parents footsteps and was able to recognize his forever with Jashae. His parents and Nino were hilarious and I loved them as secondary characters. My favorite scenes with them included the ER scene with the parents and mama’s response to how she was going to handle Pops’ cheating. Between Nino and the parents, they had me laughing so hard I cried. Nino couldn’t take anything seriously and his jokes were so funny. I hope Nino gets a book because I can’t wait to see him fall in love and get jokes back on him that he had for everybody else. I would recommend this book and I can’t wait to see what this author comes up with next.
This was such a good book. The relationship between Caine and Jashae was a bit of a slow burn but I loved them together and I liked that because it was such a slow burn, we were able to see them both grow and change where necessary. I loved how Caine moved when it concerned Jashae and Amani and he was all in. I loved that Caine saw the error of following in his parents footsteps and was able to recognize his forever with Jashae. His parents and Nino were hilarious and I loved them as secondary characters. My favorite scenes with them included the ER scene with the parents and mama’s response to how she was going to handle Pops’ cheating. Between Nino and the parents, they had me laughing so hard I cried. Nino couldn’t take anything seriously and his jokes were so funny. I hope Nino gets a book because I can’t wait to see him fall in love and get jokes back on him that he had for everybody else. I would recommend this book and I can’t wait to see what this author comes up with next.
September 28, 2023
Caine turns in his player card
This book was complex and fabulous. It’s about Jashae who is trying to make a life for her and her baby after her boyfriend dies tragically. She meets Caine who is a real man heaux and proud of it. When Caine and Jashae meet, there’s an instant connection. Jashae isn’t sure she’s ready to move on or if it’s appropriate and Caine has to decide if he’s ready for monogamy because he senses that Jashae isn’t the type of woman he tends to deal with. Caine courted Jashae. He was her covering and she needed that. They were so cute together.
I feel like this book was complex because it dealt with issues that affect families. Caine has parents who are dysfunctional. He doesn’t have the best example of what love is. On the other hand, you have Jashae who has abandonment issues. Her mom left her as a child and her man left her when he died. This booked showed this couple overcoming these issues. They were just what they needed and I loved it!!
This book was complex and fabulous. It’s about Jashae who is trying to make a life for her and her baby after her boyfriend dies tragically. She meets Caine who is a real man heaux and proud of it. When Caine and Jashae meet, there’s an instant connection. Jashae isn’t sure she’s ready to move on or if it’s appropriate and Caine has to decide if he’s ready for monogamy because he senses that Jashae isn’t the type of woman he tends to deal with. Caine courted Jashae. He was her covering and she needed that. They were so cute together.
I feel like this book was complex because it dealt with issues that affect families. Caine has parents who are dysfunctional. He doesn’t have the best example of what love is. On the other hand, you have Jashae who has abandonment issues. Her mom left her as a child and her man left her when he died. This booked showed this couple overcoming these issues. They were just what they needed and I loved it!!
May 22, 2025
This is my first book by this author, and I have to say—she’s off to a great start. Book 2 here I come. I loved the character development and the storyline. Love the male narrator the female is just OK. She grew on me. I’m stuck with her for two more books.
SIDENOTE (aka “Don’t come for my stars!”):
Just a quick heads-up—my ratings are based on whether I’d reread the book or add it to my personal collection, not the quality of the story itself. So here’s how I roll:
5 🤩 = I’m obsessed with everything—the storyline, the author, and the narrators! I read it yearly and own ALL the copies: physical, digital, and Audible. I can basically recite this book. It lives in my private library.
4 🌟 = Loved the story, the author, and the narrator (if it’s audio). I’d happily reread it when I need a solid comfort read.
3 ✨ = Enjoyed the story, the author, and definitely the narrators. A great addition to my yearly reading challenge—likely to revisit if it’s part of a series I need to refresh.
SIDENOTE (aka “Don’t come for my stars!”):
Just a quick heads-up—my ratings are based on whether I’d reread the book or add it to my personal collection, not the quality of the story itself. So here’s how I roll:
5 🤩 = I’m obsessed with everything—the storyline, the author, and the narrators! I read it yearly and own ALL the copies: physical, digital, and Audible. I can basically recite this book. It lives in my private library.
4 🌟 = Loved the story, the author, and the narrator (if it’s audio). I’d happily reread it when I need a solid comfort read.
3 ✨ = Enjoyed the story, the author, and definitely the narrators. A great addition to my yearly reading challenge—likely to revisit if it’s part of a series I need to refresh.
November 30, 2023
Light, Love and Laughter‼️
I love everything about this story. I hate what happened to Khardel but his momma smh I’m glad he knew what type of parent he had. At least that’s how I saw it because of how things were planned. Boy love will definitely come when you least expect it cause Caine wasn’t ready at first. Nino brought the humor but I would love to read a story about him being the same sucker he laughs at now. I’m glad Jashae had time to heal before meeting and giving Caine a chance even though she still had some triggers but he understood it. That first date was everything I love an attentive man Lawd. I smiled so much while reading this book. His momma and daddy hilarious I’m just happy they got their HEA cause daddy was going crazy.
I love everything about this story. I hate what happened to Khardel but his momma smh I’m glad he knew what type of parent he had. At least that’s how I saw it because of how things were planned. Boy love will definitely come when you least expect it cause Caine wasn’t ready at first. Nino brought the humor but I would love to read a story about him being the same sucker he laughs at now. I’m glad Jashae had time to heal before meeting and giving Caine a chance even though she still had some triggers but he understood it. That first date was everything I love an attentive man Lawd. I smiled so much while reading this book. His momma and daddy hilarious I’m just happy they got their HEA cause daddy was going crazy.
May 1, 2025
I really love this book in the beginning it was sad because of how Jashae baby died in a tragic way and anything that he said to her trigger her to going back to that place so when she meet Cain Bellamy he fell for her love at first sight and it was so cute but at first she called him Shane because the bride called him that he didn’t correct her because she was a bridezilla. He was so romantic with her because he want to impress her and it was his first ever date he was going on . Fast forward he ask jashae to marry him and she was pregnant and he adopted her baby and then they got married . His parent s finally got married when they saw their son get married they are hopejnf that this would rub off on his brother.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
Caine and Jashae were an unexpected pair that worked out perfectly. She was still grieving her boyfriend’s death. Caine watched his mother and stepfather play reindeer games his entire life and was determined to stay single. The parents were a hot mess, especially that mother of his.
One bridal party tattoo session and a few run-ins later, he was reevaluating his stance. Their inner monologues about the people around them were so funny it reminded me of a scene from one of Issa Rae’s shows.
Caine’s brother, Nino, is insane and hilarious. I don’t know why a woman would want to deal with him, but I see his book is next, so I will be listening to it. Overall, this story starts off sad, but once the laughs start rolling, they do not stop.
One bridal party tattoo session and a few run-ins later, he was reevaluating his stance. Their inner monologues about the people around them were so funny it reminded me of a scene from one of Issa Rae’s shows.
Caine’s brother, Nino, is insane and hilarious. I don’t know why a woman would want to deal with him, but I see his book is next, so I will be listening to it. Overall, this story starts off sad, but once the laughs start rolling, they do not stop.
September 17, 2025
rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
this was my intro to riley baxter and honestly, not bad at all. i probably would’ve liked it better if we started with a pov from caine since it’s technically his book, but that’s not a dealbreaker.
overall, it was actually pretty comical — especially with caine’s parents and nino being his usual wild self. if you take it too seriously, the dynamic between them can definitely come off misogynistic… and i mean, you wouldn’t be wrong 👀 but i’m not even gonna open that can of worms lol.
what i did wish was that the plot had a little more depth. like, give me some background on jashae’s family, or go deeper into khardel’s mom. sis basically ghosted jashae and the baby after his passing and i wanted to see how that played out.
this was my intro to riley baxter and honestly, not bad at all. i probably would’ve liked it better if we started with a pov from caine since it’s technically his book, but that’s not a dealbreaker.
overall, it was actually pretty comical — especially with caine’s parents and nino being his usual wild self. if you take it too seriously, the dynamic between them can definitely come off misogynistic… and i mean, you wouldn’t be wrong 👀 but i’m not even gonna open that can of worms lol.
what i did wish was that the plot had a little more depth. like, give me some background on jashae’s family, or go deeper into khardel’s mom. sis basically ghosted jashae and the baby after his passing and i wanted to see how that played out.
October 7, 2023
love after loss
This was a goo read that pulled at your heart strings and made you laugh at the craziness of family….Cain was avoiding relationships because his parents relationship status now Nichelle was a trip the way she had Pops falling I all over her now Nino just said any thing came to his mind just no filter…..Jashae dealing with loss while trying to mother and move on wasn’t easy but in walks Caine…..the sectondary characters really add humor and support there’s very little drama the ending was a little rushed I felt like Caine could have been Khardels brother from the way the author spoke of the eyes that piece really would’ve added more to an already good read
This was a goo read that pulled at your heart strings and made you laugh at the craziness of family….Cain was avoiding relationships because his parents relationship status now Nichelle was a trip the way she had Pops falling I all over her now Nino just said any thing came to his mind just no filter…..Jashae dealing with loss while trying to mother and move on wasn’t easy but in walks Caine…..the sectondary characters really add humor and support there’s very little drama the ending was a little rushed I felt like Caine could have been Khardels brother from the way the author spoke of the eyes that piece really would’ve added more to an already good read
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