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The Best Man: Unfinished Business
The beloved characters from The Best Man movies and hit television series reunite for a sexy and soulful, heartbreaking and hilarious reckoning of love.
Recently divorced and fresh off a Pulitzer Prize win, Harper Stewart is in a new era. He’s working on a movie and living the ultimate bachelor life in his Brooklyn penthouse. But still, something is missing. What else explains the stubborn creative block? The carousel of women? And seventh-wheel status with his friends?
Jordan Armstrong had to flee New York. First, to give herself distance from Harper and, second, to escape the corporate grind. In her beachfront Malibu property, the façade of a “healed” Jordan flourishes. Yet she finds herself unmoored. Despite the physical distance, she still feels Harper’s magnetic pull.
Meanwhile, in Ghana, Robyn has gone full bohemian restaurateur. She has finally found peace and won’t let another man ruin it—that is, until a handsome local entrepreneur commands her attention. But it’s all too much change for her daughter, Mia, and when she secretly calls Harper with an emergency Robyn would rather hide, their world is shaken and relationships are tested once more.
Book one of The Best Man trilogy follows Harper, Jordan, and Robyn as they try to establish lives away from the hurts of the past and come to realize that some love is impossible to break. With support from their close-knit crew of chosen family—Quentin, Shelby, Lance, Murch, and Candace—they fight for a future that proves one’s second act can be the extended chapter worth it all.
Recently divorced and fresh off a Pulitzer Prize win, Harper Stewart is in a new era. He’s working on a movie and living the ultimate bachelor life in his Brooklyn penthouse. But still, something is missing. What else explains the stubborn creative block? The carousel of women? And seventh-wheel status with his friends?
Jordan Armstrong had to flee New York. First, to give herself distance from Harper and, second, to escape the corporate grind. In her beachfront Malibu property, the façade of a “healed” Jordan flourishes. Yet she finds herself unmoored. Despite the physical distance, she still feels Harper’s magnetic pull.
Meanwhile, in Ghana, Robyn has gone full bohemian restaurateur. She has finally found peace and won’t let another man ruin it—that is, until a handsome local entrepreneur commands her attention. But it’s all too much change for her daughter, Mia, and when she secretly calls Harper with an emergency Robyn would rather hide, their world is shaken and relationships are tested once more.
Book one of The Best Man trilogy follows Harper, Jordan, and Robyn as they try to establish lives away from the hurts of the past and come to realize that some love is impossible to break. With support from their close-knit crew of chosen family—Quentin, Shelby, Lance, Murch, and Candace—they fight for a future that proves one’s second act can be the extended chapter worth it all.
489 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2025
624 people are currently reading
9559 people want to read
About the author
Malcolm D. Lee
1 book114 followersMalcolm D. Lee is an award-winning writer, director, and producer celebrated for a string of box office successes, including The Best Man, Girls Trip, Night School, and Space Jam: A New Legacy. With Girls Trip, Lee made history as the first filmmaker to helm a feature with an all–African American creative team—both in front of and behind the camera—that grossed over $100 million at the domestic box office.
In 2022, he returned to his beloved franchise with The Best Man: The Final Chapters, the critically acclaimed Peacock limited series that became the first original on the platform to break into Nielsen’s Top 10. Most recently, Lee completed filming his 12th feature film an Untitled collaboration with Blumhouse Productions and Universal Pictures.
In 2024, Lee was honored with the Career Achievement Award by the Critics Choice Association’s Celebration of Black Cinema & Television, recognizing his esteemed body of work over a 25-year career. The award was especially meaningful as it marked the 25th anniversary of his directorial debut, The Best Man.
Through his production company, Blackmaled Productions, Lee is developing a robust slate of film and television projects. Upcoming titles include Before I Let Go, based on the New York Times bestselling novel by Kennedy Ryan; and an untitled project based on the life of Chris “Ludacris” Bridges—both in partnership with Universal Television. Lee is also reuniting with Universal Pictures for the highly anticipated Girls Trip 2.
Expanding his storytelling into the literary world, Lee will publish his debut novel, The Best Man: Unfinished Business, in July 2025. A continuation of the iconic film franchise’s beloved characters, the book will be released by Storehouse Voices, an imprint of Crown Publishing Group (a division of Penguin Random House LLC). It is the first in a planned trilogy of trade paperbacks, with books two and three slated for release in 2026.
Malcolm D. Lee’s work is defined by his unwavering commitment to telling culturally rich, inclusive stories that entertain, inspire, and endure.
In 2022, he returned to his beloved franchise with The Best Man: The Final Chapters, the critically acclaimed Peacock limited series that became the first original on the platform to break into Nielsen’s Top 10. Most recently, Lee completed filming his 12th feature film an Untitled collaboration with Blumhouse Productions and Universal Pictures.
In 2024, Lee was honored with the Career Achievement Award by the Critics Choice Association’s Celebration of Black Cinema & Television, recognizing his esteemed body of work over a 25-year career. The award was especially meaningful as it marked the 25th anniversary of his directorial debut, The Best Man.
Through his production company, Blackmaled Productions, Lee is developing a robust slate of film and television projects. Upcoming titles include Before I Let Go, based on the New York Times bestselling novel by Kennedy Ryan; and an untitled project based on the life of Chris “Ludacris” Bridges—both in partnership with Universal Television. Lee is also reuniting with Universal Pictures for the highly anticipated Girls Trip 2.
Expanding his storytelling into the literary world, Lee will publish his debut novel, The Best Man: Unfinished Business, in July 2025. A continuation of the iconic film franchise’s beloved characters, the book will be released by Storehouse Voices, an imprint of Crown Publishing Group (a division of Penguin Random House LLC). It is the first in a planned trilogy of trade paperbacks, with books two and three slated for release in 2026.
Malcolm D. Lee’s work is defined by his unwavering commitment to telling culturally rich, inclusive stories that entertain, inspire, and endure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 314 reviews
July 19, 2025
2.5 Stars ✨
This book leans heavily on nostalgia and familiarity with the movies to be enjoyable. I will say, the strongest aspect is how well the characters’ voices align with their on-screen counterparts — they felt true to form throughout.
The issues: The writing just isn’t very engaging. It’s repetitive to the point where you could easily cut 150 pages without losing anything of value. If you took a shot every time you read “Jordan Motherf**king Armstrong,” you’d probably end up six feet under. On top of that, the story relies way too much on miscommunication between characters, which got old fast. Honestly, if this hadn’t been a buddy read with my mom, I would’ve DNFed. That said, the last 20% ended up being the most interesting part of the story.
Also worth noting: the audiobook released two weeks after the physical copy. I read the first half physically and finished the rest on audio — and I highly recommend going the audio route if you’re going to tackle this. The heavy hitter narrators (Jakobi Diem, January LaVoy, and Zenzi Williams) really carried this book! Even so, it still took me EIGHTEEN days to finish… and my usual is three.
It ends on a pretty big cliffhanger, but honestly? I won’t be continuing with this series.
This book leans heavily on nostalgia and familiarity with the movies to be enjoyable. I will say, the strongest aspect is how well the characters’ voices align with their on-screen counterparts — they felt true to form throughout.
The issues: The writing just isn’t very engaging. It’s repetitive to the point where you could easily cut 150 pages without losing anything of value. If you took a shot every time you read “Jordan Motherf**king Armstrong,” you’d probably end up six feet under. On top of that, the story relies way too much on miscommunication between characters, which got old fast. Honestly, if this hadn’t been a buddy read with my mom, I would’ve DNFed. That said, the last 20% ended up being the most interesting part of the story.
Also worth noting: the audiobook released two weeks after the physical copy. I read the first half physically and finished the rest on audio — and I highly recommend going the audio route if you’re going to tackle this. The heavy hitter narrators (Jakobi Diem, January LaVoy, and Zenzi Williams) really carried this book! Even so, it still took me EIGHTEEN days to finish… and my usual is three.
It ends on a pretty big cliffhanger, but honestly? I won’t be continuing with this series.
May 24, 2025
The best man unfinished business by Malcolm D. Lee with Jayne Allen
ARC from storehouse voices
release date: july 1st 2025
-you get right into the drama and life of Harper i’m into it
-I love the black excellence shown in this book 👏🏾
-the spice 👀🔥
-the storytelling and writing truly puts you into Harper’s head
-Jordan is a badass women
-Robyn is an incredible and strong mom, her and Harper have been through so much I love being able to see life after divorce with them
-I love diversity and intricate details of each friend in the group
-I love the therapy rep and mental health when it comes to black women
-DRAMAAA 👀 Kwesi, Jordan
- The sparks and spice with Jordan and Harper is wow
-as I kept reading I felt so connected to the characters it’s like they became my friend group
-I loved seeing Robyn’s growth, finding herself and independance
-Robyn and Harper give Before I let go by Kennedy Ryan vibes and i’m here for it so much emotion, heartbreak and rawness
-I wish had more backstory of Jordan and Harper tho
-The heartbreak, love, connections, friendships in this book was so touching and beautiful
-the end had me shook I NEED MOREEEE
rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC from storehouse voices
release date: july 1st 2025
-you get right into the drama and life of Harper i’m into it
-I love the black excellence shown in this book 👏🏾
-the spice 👀🔥
-the storytelling and writing truly puts you into Harper’s head
-Jordan is a badass women
-Robyn is an incredible and strong mom, her and Harper have been through so much I love being able to see life after divorce with them
-I love diversity and intricate details of each friend in the group
-I love the therapy rep and mental health when it comes to black women
-DRAMAAA 👀 Kwesi, Jordan
- The sparks and spice with Jordan and Harper is wow
-as I kept reading I felt so connected to the characters it’s like they became my friend group
-I loved seeing Robyn’s growth, finding herself and independance
-Robyn and Harper give Before I let go by Kennedy Ryan vibes and i’m here for it so much emotion, heartbreak and rawness
-I wish had more backstory of Jordan and Harper tho
-The heartbreak, love, connections, friendships in this book was so touching and beautiful
-the end had me shook I NEED MOREEEE
rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 1, 2025
Ever since the first time I saw the movie “The Best Man,” I have considered it to be one of my favorite movies. I have loved each of the chances we have had to see more of this story. That is why I was very excited to get a chance to read this book.
One thing I did like is that, while all of the characters from the series are featured, this particular story mainly focuses on three characters. I believe this helps the story to be less busy. I also like that it has alternate perspectives.
I hate to admit that one of the characters, I was not invested at all in their story. I honestly wanted to skip their chapters, but for the sake of the review, I didn’t do that. I really liked the other two characters stories…until I didn’t. Honestly, it just seemed like way too much miscommunication going on. Also, I’m not really a fan of how it ended either. I was a bit relieved to read in the acknowledgements that this is the beginning of the series, though.
Overall, I did enjoy getting back into the lives of these characters that have grown so close to me. I am excited to see where their stories go from here.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
One thing I did like is that, while all of the characters from the series are featured, this particular story mainly focuses on three characters. I believe this helps the story to be less busy. I also like that it has alternate perspectives.
I hate to admit that one of the characters, I was not invested at all in their story. I honestly wanted to skip their chapters, but for the sake of the review, I didn’t do that. I really liked the other two characters stories…until I didn’t. Honestly, it just seemed like way too much miscommunication going on. Also, I’m not really a fan of how it ended either. I was a bit relieved to read in the acknowledgements that this is the beginning of the series, though.
Overall, I did enjoy getting back into the lives of these characters that have grown so close to me. I am excited to see where their stories go from here.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
July 26, 2025
i love the original movie. i love the sequel. i love the miniseries. and now i love the book. i will continue to follow these characters until the wheels fall off. every time these characters re-enter my life it just feels like linking up with old friends. my favorite messy as hell old friends. 😂
you can tell this is being set up for another book and i cannot wait for it.
you can tell this is being set up for another book and i cannot wait for it.
September 15, 2025
I really don’t like Harper and Robyn. I didn’t in the movies either. Harper was always selfish and a bad judge of his own mistakes and behavior. Robyn was too accommodating and naive and had low self esteem to me. The ending I saw coming and am really annoyed AGAIN!!!
July 1, 2025
This was my most anticipated read of the year. As a huge fan of both movies and the miniseries, I was super excited when the news dropped that it will be a continuation of The Best Man in book format, following up after the miniseries.
Honestly, reading this was like watching the characters on screen again. If you’ve seen the movies and series, these groups of friends will definitely have you on a rollercoaster.
The love triangle between Harper, Robyn, and Jordan still continues. You also get to dive deeper into these characters and how their minds work. Yes, it gets a bit messy too.
Harper is still Harper, lol. But he seems to be coming to terms with how his selfishness affects his loved ones. He may be learning a bit, I think.
Robyn is enjoying Ghana. She’s running a business and being a mom to Mia. She’s also getting to know someone new. But everything seems to be taking a toll on Mia with her parents not being together. Things start to get real emotional.
I always liked Jordan because she was an educated, strong, black woman. She took no mess and was just so BAD@$$. Now you get to see a whole different side of her. Wheww 😮💨. I now see why she is the way she is.
Murch, Lance, Quentin, Shelby, and Candace make appearances also, but this book solely centers on Harper, Robyn, and Jordan.
Now, this does leave off on a cliffhanger, being that it’s going to be a trilogy, but you’re going to want to get into it. It’s going to have you wanting more, but you do not want to miss this tea 🫖.
Pub Date: July 1, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, Crown Publishing, and Store House Voices for this ARC copy; all thoughts are my own.
Honestly, reading this was like watching the characters on screen again. If you’ve seen the movies and series, these groups of friends will definitely have you on a rollercoaster.
The love triangle between Harper, Robyn, and Jordan still continues. You also get to dive deeper into these characters and how their minds work. Yes, it gets a bit messy too.
Harper is still Harper, lol. But he seems to be coming to terms with how his selfishness affects his loved ones. He may be learning a bit, I think.
Robyn is enjoying Ghana. She’s running a business and being a mom to Mia. She’s also getting to know someone new. But everything seems to be taking a toll on Mia with her parents not being together. Things start to get real emotional.
I always liked Jordan because she was an educated, strong, black woman. She took no mess and was just so BAD@$$. Now you get to see a whole different side of her. Wheww 😮💨. I now see why she is the way she is.
Murch, Lance, Quentin, Shelby, and Candace make appearances also, but this book solely centers on Harper, Robyn, and Jordan.
Now, this does leave off on a cliffhanger, being that it’s going to be a trilogy, but you’re going to want to get into it. It’s going to have you wanting more, but you do not want to miss this tea 🫖.
Pub Date: July 1, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, Crown Publishing, and Store House Voices for this ARC copy; all thoughts are my own.
July 26, 2025
It's the characters we know and love, still making poor choices at their big age.
October 15, 2025
The title Unfinished Business implies things would be wrapped up and yet here we are 26 years later with more questions than before.
I’ve been involved with these characters for more than half of my life now. Between the original ‘The Best Man’ movie being one of my most revisited classics, the sequel being a favorite now holiday film (even with the way it ripped my heart out) and well done series, I’d return to them on any medium they’re offered. I went into this excited at what I thought would wrap up a “will they won’t they” storyline that’s stretched two decades now. And well this wasn’t that.
These three are just too damn old. Settled into their 50’s and they’re still stuck in the same love triangle even when one of them is continents away. Unfortunately the characterization of Harper is all too realistic. What will it take for a coddled immature man to make up his damn mind? Idk, we’re still waiting. Is there going to be more? Am I supposed to be satisfied with a cliffhanger or will I be following them until I catch up in age with them??? That ending…HELLO??!When will it end?! 😭
The writing felt so authentic to the on screen characters. Even the audiobook nailed the voices and tone perfectly. The nostalgia wrapped me in tight, I must admit. It was funny, charming, sexy, and grown. I’m just here on my knees begging for a less ambiguous ending to this story!
July 16, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the Arc to review
The Best Man: Unfinished Business is a dynamic, emotionally rich continuation of the beloved Best Man saga that reunites readers with a group of friends navigating adulthood, fame, love, grief, and everything in between.
Each chapter feels like a check-in with old friends. Harper, Jordan, Lance, Robyn, and the crew have all evolved in ways that feel authentic, messy, and real.
Lee does a fantastic job capturing the same humor, drama, and heart the films are known for, but with added maturity and introspection. Some pacing issues aside, this book is an excellent continuation and offers a more literary, reflective lens on Black love, growth, and legacy.
The Best Man: Unfinished Business is a dynamic, emotionally rich continuation of the beloved Best Man saga that reunites readers with a group of friends navigating adulthood, fame, love, grief, and everything in between.
Each chapter feels like a check-in with old friends. Harper, Jordan, Lance, Robyn, and the crew have all evolved in ways that feel authentic, messy, and real.
Lee does a fantastic job capturing the same humor, drama, and heart the films are known for, but with added maturity and introspection. Some pacing issues aside, this book is an excellent continuation and offers a more literary, reflective lens on Black love, growth, and legacy.
July 20, 2025
Sigh. I wanted to like this book. I really did. Harper needs to grow a pair and stop needing someone. Learn how to enjoy life alone. Jordan needs to discover who she is and stop making drastic changes in reaction to others choices. And that middle name!!!! Goodness gracious!!! I almost lost my eyes from rolling them every time I heard them. These two? Eh. Not my favorite.
Robyn, Robyn, Robyn. Baby girl you are on the right track but just a bit parallel to it. Find YOU the real YOU and DO YOU!
Oh and Mia? She needed a few good licks. Maybe it was just me.
Yeah. This book was messy, long and just not there for me but after watching two movies and a limited series, I had to know how it ends. And that part? SCHUUUUUUUUUUPS!!!!
Robyn, Robyn, Robyn. Baby girl you are on the right track but just a bit parallel to it. Find YOU the real YOU and DO YOU!
Oh and Mia? She needed a few good licks. Maybe it was just me.
Yeah. This book was messy, long and just not there for me but after watching two movies and a limited series, I had to know how it ends. And that part? SCHUUUUUUUUUUPS!!!!
July 24, 2025
Glad that’s over. Good cliffhanger though, that was best Robyn chapter in the book. It was pure nostalgia that made me keep going. Robyn’s chapters seemed mostly about recipes and her cooking, this could have shaved a few hours off the book. Jordan MFing Armstrong got on my MFing nerves and Harper was a selfish ass for most of the book. Would probably read the book with Q and Shelby.
Read
August 8, 2025I’m on the fence about this one in how to rate it. It wasn’t bad but it wasn’t that good either. And it ended on a cliff hanger as if there is going to be a sequel. I think the author should of just wrapped this up with a pretty bow because I don’t see myself reading a book 2.
August 24, 2025
3.5⭐️
I was pretty bored with this book. I expected much more and the first 50% was not nearly as intriguing as i would’ve liked.
I also was disappointed that we didn’t get a POV from Lance, Quentin/Shelby or Munch/Candiace.
The Best Man is one of my favorite movies, loved the Best Man Holiday and the series so I was excited to get an update on the characters.
I love that the characters are already well established so it was easy to imagine everyone and there’s already so much history and backstory but this didn’t quite hit like I imagined.
Hopefully the next book will be juicier and more engaging and offer more updates on the other characters.
I was pretty bored with this book. I expected much more and the first 50% was not nearly as intriguing as i would’ve liked.
I also was disappointed that we didn’t get a POV from Lance, Quentin/Shelby or Munch/Candiace.
The Best Man is one of my favorite movies, loved the Best Man Holiday and the series so I was excited to get an update on the characters.
I love that the characters are already well established so it was easy to imagine everyone and there’s already so much history and backstory but this didn’t quite hit like I imagined.
Hopefully the next book will be juicier and more engaging and offer more updates on the other characters.
August 10, 2025
Special thanks to the authors & @storehousevoices for my gifted copy‼️
Gather around book friends, gather around . . . Malcolm Drama Lee and Jayne Allen gave it with book 1! It was EVERYTHING I wanted and needed it to be. I’m a major fan of The Best Man franchise and to know my favorite movies/series was being turned into a book I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a copy.
Picking up where the tv series left off The Best Man: Unfinished Business follows the infamous love triangle clique Harper, Robyn, and Jordan. Some may know them as Jackson, Kendall, and the girl in the back who can cook 😂😂😂😂.
You’d think after all these years these characters would’ve finally matured but lawd Harper trying to get his groove back after the divorce. Imagine Harper trying to be a Lance . . . laughable isn’t it lol. Robyn out in Ghana trying to fake it til she make it and her pride so big she’d rather open a restaurant in a lions den before she asks for help. Then we have Jordan who is still an absolute success but her mental health/anxiety, unresolved feelings for Harper and not putting herself first has her life in shambles.
We get guest appearances from more of the gang Shelby and Quentin will definitely make you laugh. Let’s not forget the drama it was one thing after another and that ending had me stressed. Harper so selfish and messy, Jordan refuses to communicate and the overreacting, and Robyn just got on my nerves in general she’s so angry STILL but I get it kinda.
Overall, if you loved The Best Man you’ll definitely enjoy this book. I didn’t realize how much I missed these characters until I read it. I could easily envision and hear the character voices as I read the book. You don’t have to watch the movies or series to read it but it will make you feel more connected to the characters. Mr.Lee we need another movie or tv series expeditiously‼️ But I highly recommend this one ya’ll.
Gather around book friends, gather around . . . Malcolm Drama Lee and Jayne Allen gave it with book 1! It was EVERYTHING I wanted and needed it to be. I’m a major fan of The Best Man franchise and to know my favorite movies/series was being turned into a book I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a copy.
Picking up where the tv series left off The Best Man: Unfinished Business follows the infamous love triangle clique Harper, Robyn, and Jordan. Some may know them as Jackson, Kendall, and the girl in the back who can cook 😂😂😂😂.
You’d think after all these years these characters would’ve finally matured but lawd Harper trying to get his groove back after the divorce. Imagine Harper trying to be a Lance . . . laughable isn’t it lol. Robyn out in Ghana trying to fake it til she make it and her pride so big she’d rather open a restaurant in a lions den before she asks for help. Then we have Jordan who is still an absolute success but her mental health/anxiety, unresolved feelings for Harper and not putting herself first has her life in shambles.
We get guest appearances from more of the gang Shelby and Quentin will definitely make you laugh. Let’s not forget the drama it was one thing after another and that ending had me stressed. Harper so selfish and messy, Jordan refuses to communicate and the overreacting, and Robyn just got on my nerves in general she’s so angry STILL but I get it kinda.
Overall, if you loved The Best Man you’ll definitely enjoy this book. I didn’t realize how much I missed these characters until I read it. I could easily envision and hear the character voices as I read the book. You don’t have to watch the movies or series to read it but it will make you feel more connected to the characters. Mr.Lee we need another movie or tv series expeditiously‼️ But I highly recommend this one ya’ll.
July 18, 2025
3.5⭐️ I was hoping for closure with this book but instead it just rehashed old issues and ended on a frustrating cliffhanger. The three main characters haven’t grown at all. Harper is still selfish. Jordan still lacks depth and comes off desperate. Robyn is still lost, gullible, and emotionally inconsistent.
It felt like a missed opportunity to show real progress or resolution. While the writing is fine, the story just didn’t deliver the payoff I expected. Disappointing overall.
It felt like a missed opportunity to show real progress or resolution. While the writing is fine, the story just didn’t deliver the payoff I expected. Disappointing overall.
July 20, 2025
Threw the book at the ending! Loved it!! Can’t wait for the next installment! Bravo 👏🏾
September 2, 2025
IT’S A CLASSIC!!
Harper selfish a$$. Jordan stubborn a$$. And Robin crazy a$$ got on my nerves🤣 I would have loved for Taye, Nia and Sanaa to have narrated this! But imma stick beside em.
Alexa play What You Want by Jaguar Wright and The Roots.
* The Best Man: Unfinished Business launches a new trade paperback original series on July 1, 2025, with the next two books slated for release in 2026. Each novel stands alone while weaving together the ongoing stories of these beloved characters across the trilogy.*
Harper selfish a$$. Jordan stubborn a$$. And Robin crazy a$$ got on my nerves🤣 I would have loved for Taye, Nia and Sanaa to have narrated this! But imma stick beside em.
Alexa play What You Want by Jaguar Wright and The Roots.
* The Best Man: Unfinished Business launches a new trade paperback original series on July 1, 2025, with the next two books slated for release in 2026. Each novel stands alone while weaving together the ongoing stories of these beloved characters across the trilogy.*
November 13, 2025
Really enjoyed this book. To fully get into this, you’ll need to watch both movies, and the series (which I assume is still on Peacock). The cliff hanger was an unexpected surprise. Hopefully there will be an eventual follow up.
September 8, 2025
I don't feel fulfilled , like I don't feel finish. And it could've been shorter. 500 pages of fluff. Next book needs to be 300 PAGES
Harper selfish
Jordan stubborn
Robyn annoying
Harper selfish
Jordan stubborn
Robyn annoying
August 24, 2025
I'm not gonna lie, I truly thought this was going to be a DNF from the first chapters of Harper. For the most part, he exhausts me beyond measure. I was ready to tell my book club, I couldn't do it, but I stuck with it, and I'm glad I did.
This story is really a deep look into the inner workings between Harper, Robin, & Jordan. Each of them irritated me at one point or another while reading, yet I truly loved them all and the character development that occurred with them. There were so many times when Robin or Jordan were dealing with things that were so relatable to my own personal life that I could understand the struggle and why they reacted as such.
The title is the theme of the story; so many unfinished problems/issues throughout the entire story. I wanted the ending to have closure, and I didn't get that. Interested to see what's next in the series, but I don't want it to be drawn out to a point where it's not engaging and feels like it should have ended earlier, like my current feelings on the Sex and the City reboot.
All and all, good easy read.
This story is really a deep look into the inner workings between Harper, Robin, & Jordan. Each of them irritated me at one point or another while reading, yet I truly loved them all and the character development that occurred with them. There were so many times when Robin or Jordan were dealing with things that were so relatable to my own personal life that I could understand the struggle and why they reacted as such.
The title is the theme of the story; so many unfinished problems/issues throughout the entire story. I wanted the ending to have closure, and I didn't get that. Interested to see what's next in the series, but I don't want it to be drawn out to a point where it's not engaging and feels like it should have ended earlier, like my current feelings on the Sex and the City reboot.
All and all, good easy read.
July 6, 2025
I received an Advanced Reader Copy and am voluntarily reviewing it. This book is exactly what fans needed. Readers get all the juicy details that are not given in a movie. This is a multi pov. Readers get inside the minds of Harper and Robin Stewart and Jordan Armstrong. This book takes place after the last produced series. The gang is all here with their advice and opinions. Quentin and Shelby are married. Lance is married to Jasmine. Candace and Murch are still going strong. Robin and Mia are still in Africa thriving. Harper is in the middle of writing a screenplay of the continuation of his first book, Unfinished Business. He refuses to let the studio take control like they did with the first movie. He knows how much the first movie hurt his friends and refuses to allow that to happen again. Unfortunately, writer’s block has Harper in a chokehold. Something was missing.
Jordan Armstrong has changed her life. After surviving health issues, Jordan is focused on her health. She quit her stressful job and is looking to produce a tv show that focuses on black women’s health. Jordan has also pulled back from her friends even Harper. Things take a turn when she agrees to meet Harper on her turf. Jordan knows she is missing something in her life. She never dreamed that it would show up on her doorstep. Both Jordan and Harper benefit from spending time together. Is this their future? Both have always been career driven. Can they change their focus? I am impressed with Mr. Lee and Ms. Allen’s writing. This book flowed like a movie. We all know these characters. This book allowed readers to get into the beloved characters’ minds. I loved it and I am here for it. Ready and willing to read more about this group.
Jordan Armstrong has changed her life. After surviving health issues, Jordan is focused on her health. She quit her stressful job and is looking to produce a tv show that focuses on black women’s health. Jordan has also pulled back from her friends even Harper. Things take a turn when she agrees to meet Harper on her turf. Jordan knows she is missing something in her life. She never dreamed that it would show up on her doorstep. Both Jordan and Harper benefit from spending time together. Is this their future? Both have always been career driven. Can they change their focus? I am impressed with Mr. Lee and Ms. Allen’s writing. This book flowed like a movie. We all know these characters. This book allowed readers to get into the beloved characters’ minds. I loved it and I am here for it. Ready and willing to read more about this group.
August 15, 2025
I was excited to read this one! This book picks up after The Best Man: The Final Chapters series. (Please watch this before you read the book if you haven't already.) Spoilers of the show ahead......
This book follows Harper (Taye Diggs), Jordan (Nia Long), and Robyn (Sanaa Lathan) in a glimpse into the "after". Harper is trying to write a screenplay that redeems the disaster of the movie adaptation of his first book while trying to figure out his love life. Jordan is trying to figure out her next steps after running a whole coast away from Harper. Meanwhile, Robyn is getting used to the expat life in Ghana.
Not gonna hold you, this book does start a bit slow. But if you make it to the 50% mark, it starts to take off. I have never liked Harper's character. Never redeemed in 3 times on screen but he is getting there a little bit in this book. Maybe. Robyn is still my fave. And Jordan.... girl.....
There is definitely another book coming because no way they leave us on a cliffhanger like this! Can't wait to continue this story because the tea is hot!
Thank you to Crown Publishing and Storehouse Voices for providing this eARC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own!
This book follows Harper (Taye Diggs), Jordan (Nia Long), and Robyn (Sanaa Lathan) in a glimpse into the "after". Harper is trying to write a screenplay that redeems the disaster of the movie adaptation of his first book while trying to figure out his love life. Jordan is trying to figure out her next steps after running a whole coast away from Harper. Meanwhile, Robyn is getting used to the expat life in Ghana.
Not gonna hold you, this book does start a bit slow. But if you make it to the 50% mark, it starts to take off. I have never liked Harper's character. Never redeemed in 3 times on screen but he is getting there a little bit in this book. Maybe. Robyn is still my fave. And Jordan.... girl.....
There is definitely another book coming because no way they leave us on a cliffhanger like this! Can't wait to continue this story because the tea is hot!
Thank you to Crown Publishing and Storehouse Voices for providing this eARC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2025
I enjoyed seeing the characters again even though they annoyed me here and there.
August 25, 2025
The BEST movies. The BEST series. The BEST soundtrack. The BEST book.
The continuation…the drama runneth over! It’s been 20 years and the tribe still has so much more in store for us.
We get more insight into Harper/Jordan and Robyn’s dynamic. I really enjoyed getting into Harpers mind and thought process. He’s a Pulitzer prize winning author and going through the motions of his next big novel, figuring out his romantic future, while being an actively involved parent across continents. I was rooting for Harper big time… until he proved why he truly was an old ass fuck boy 🤦🏾♀️
I liked Jordan’s sections. She’s a hardworking trailblazer in her feel. I love her confidence in her career, but it was lacking in her personal life. I loved her therapy sessions and identifying the sadness that stems from wanting to be seen, and chosen. As composed as Jordan was, why would she fall apart after getting dicked down? Man… I get it 🤦🏾♀️
Robyn was… Robyn. I had to ask myself why don’t I (or anyone else) like her 😂 She was just a woman wanting peace, positivity and love. She was so giving and a nurturer and had experienced such pain. But sis, why would you leave your marriage to be another man’s side piece?
I had ALL the feelings and soooo many opinions with this one. These are my family and ideal friend group. I loved the Black elite and ratchet sophistication that these characters continue to bring. I loved the calls with Quentin and Shelby! I wanted more of Lance and feel that a book devoted to him in a new marriage after being a widow could be full of appeal and surprises.
I started like “ooh this is so great” and ended with, “IKYFL, but this is still great”. The cliffhanger?! Oh boy! Things are only gonna get messy from here!!
When I first heard there was a Best Man book coming out I wasn’t intrigued. Yes, I loved the movies and the series, and thought it would basically be that in book form.
But, I feel Malcolm Lee’s book to bring my beloved characters/movie family was pure genius. I loved the continuation into these characters ive loved and cheered on for so long. The book really helped me understand the characters and their motivations on a deeper level and they are even more relatable to me on paper. Now… can I get a book for Soul Food, Boomerang, Friday, Pretty Woman +++
Have you read it? Watched the movies, series? Which did you like best? Did you envision the characters as they are in the movie? I’m not a fan of Taye so tried to picture Harper as Aaron Pierre that’s Mufasa…
The continuation…the drama runneth over! It’s been 20 years and the tribe still has so much more in store for us.
We get more insight into Harper/Jordan and Robyn’s dynamic. I really enjoyed getting into Harpers mind and thought process. He’s a Pulitzer prize winning author and going through the motions of his next big novel, figuring out his romantic future, while being an actively involved parent across continents. I was rooting for Harper big time… until he proved why he truly was an old ass fuck boy 🤦🏾♀️
I liked Jordan’s sections. She’s a hardworking trailblazer in her feel. I love her confidence in her career, but it was lacking in her personal life. I loved her therapy sessions and identifying the sadness that stems from wanting to be seen, and chosen. As composed as Jordan was, why would she fall apart after getting dicked down? Man… I get it 🤦🏾♀️
Robyn was… Robyn. I had to ask myself why don’t I (or anyone else) like her 😂 She was just a woman wanting peace, positivity and love. She was so giving and a nurturer and had experienced such pain. But sis, why would you leave your marriage to be another man’s side piece?
I had ALL the feelings and soooo many opinions with this one. These are my family and ideal friend group. I loved the Black elite and ratchet sophistication that these characters continue to bring. I loved the calls with Quentin and Shelby! I wanted more of Lance and feel that a book devoted to him in a new marriage after being a widow could be full of appeal and surprises.
I started like “ooh this is so great” and ended with, “IKYFL, but this is still great”. The cliffhanger?! Oh boy! Things are only gonna get messy from here!!
When I first heard there was a Best Man book coming out I wasn’t intrigued. Yes, I loved the movies and the series, and thought it would basically be that in book form.
But, I feel Malcolm Lee’s book to bring my beloved characters/movie family was pure genius. I loved the continuation into these characters ive loved and cheered on for so long. The book really helped me understand the characters and their motivations on a deeper level and they are even more relatable to me on paper. Now… can I get a book for Soul Food, Boomerang, Friday, Pretty Woman +++
Have you read it? Watched the movies, series? Which did you like best? Did you envision the characters as they are in the movie? I’m not a fan of Taye so tried to picture Harper as Aaron Pierre that’s Mufasa…
August 9, 2025
SO GOOD! This book felt like I was catching up with old friends! The authors did a great job with staying consistent with the character arcs from the movies & the limited series. It was great to see what was next for "The Best Man" crew. I can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy!
July 6, 2025
“It’s a page turner like a mug, man.”
I didn’t realize how much I missed these characters and how much I wanted another story with them in it, until I was at Barnes & Noble and saw it in the new release section. Ironically right after my girlfriend and I JUST watched the original for the billionth time a couple nights before.
It’s fair to think about how much more story there is to tell? After two movies, a show on Peacock ironically called “Final Chapters” and now a book(with two more on the way), you may ask “isn’t that a bit excessive?” much like my girlfriend did after I told her. I assure you(and her), after reading The Best Man Unfinished Business—I’m excited for so much more and if you are a fan of the franchise, I believe you will be too.
I expected to just like this, but I ended up loving it. It’s not often I read a book in less than a week, especially one 480+ pages long. Yet here I am a few days later and it went by in a flash. I couldn’t get enough!
The adventures of Jordan and Harper had my eyes glued to the page. I admit, at first, I didn’t quite get why Robyn having her own dedicated chapters made sense. Jordan and Harper’s stories felt intertwined from the beginning, whereas Robyn was off doing her own thing for a huge part of the book. While I didn’t hate those parts at all, I quite enjoyed them, it was a lot harder to connect with Robyn’s chapters. Reading through them made me want to see what was going on with Jordan and Harper! I even thought to myself, “maybe they could’ve told someone else’s story here: Q, Murch, Lance, Candace or Shelby? Shouldn’t they get the spotlight instead? Did Jayne and Malcolm add a filler to this to make the book longer?” I admit, part of these thoughts may be because I started to dislike her character by the end of Final Chapters.
That was until Act 2 of the book and everything came together. By the end of Act 2 Robyn’s parts go from “okay cool we’re catching up with Robyn’s lil love story she got going on, but let’s get back to the good stuff” to her being the most important part that makes everything else in the story work.
Oh and those final ten chapters are INTENSE! Lemme tell ya…or I won’t tell you, you should read it and find out why yourself. So, you can be waiting for the next two books with me.
I didn’t realize how much I missed these characters and how much I wanted another story with them in it, until I was at Barnes & Noble and saw it in the new release section. Ironically right after my girlfriend and I JUST watched the original for the billionth time a couple nights before.
It’s fair to think about how much more story there is to tell? After two movies, a show on Peacock ironically called “Final Chapters” and now a book(with two more on the way), you may ask “isn’t that a bit excessive?” much like my girlfriend did after I told her. I assure you(and her), after reading The Best Man Unfinished Business—I’m excited for so much more and if you are a fan of the franchise, I believe you will be too.
I expected to just like this, but I ended up loving it. It’s not often I read a book in less than a week, especially one 480+ pages long. Yet here I am a few days later and it went by in a flash. I couldn’t get enough!
The adventures of Jordan and Harper had my eyes glued to the page. I admit, at first, I didn’t quite get why Robyn having her own dedicated chapters made sense. Jordan and Harper’s stories felt intertwined from the beginning, whereas Robyn was off doing her own thing for a huge part of the book. While I didn’t hate those parts at all, I quite enjoyed them, it was a lot harder to connect with Robyn’s chapters. Reading through them made me want to see what was going on with Jordan and Harper! I even thought to myself, “maybe they could’ve told someone else’s story here: Q, Murch, Lance, Candace or Shelby? Shouldn’t they get the spotlight instead? Did Jayne and Malcolm add a filler to this to make the book longer?” I admit, part of these thoughts may be because I started to dislike her character by the end of Final Chapters.
That was until Act 2 of the book and everything came together. By the end of Act 2 Robyn’s parts go from “okay cool we’re catching up with Robyn’s lil love story she got going on, but let’s get back to the good stuff” to her being the most important part that makes everything else in the story work.
Oh and those final ten chapters are INTENSE! Lemme tell ya…or I won’t tell you, you should read it and find out why yourself. So, you can be waiting for the next two books with me.
July 18, 2025
I freaking loved this and ahhh I need to rewatch all the movies and series now because I missed these characters.
many, many the to @storehousevoices for the amazing pr box they sent me with a free copy and tons of goodies and to a fave— @prhaudio for the gifted audiobook which is out now!
my most recent book obsession— this one!!
it gave me all the nostalgic feels from when i've watched the movies and series. the story picked up at such a great place and it felt like i was with all of my best friends again. i loved how the story really shined a bright light on harper's friend group and their love and support of one another. their bond and even harper's vulnerability by the end is what every black man needs— true friendship that challenges you to be better and men who hold you accountable!
— as far as the audiobook goes, we can give these narrators all the awards + a standing ovation because they ate!! @jakobidiem did such an amazing job it sounded like terrence howard himself did the audiobook! honestly, the whole cast nailed it, and the story felt like a warm reunion with long time friends— @zen_will @januarylavoy well done!!
since finishing this masterpiece, i have joined a group of ladies and plan on reading this one again with them this weekend!
my final thought and i promise i'm done— i HATE the way the story ended but my goodness i'm ready for more!!
⭐️ easy 5 stars. go ahead and press play.
many, many the to @storehousevoices for the amazing pr box they sent me with a free copy and tons of goodies and to a fave— @prhaudio for the gifted audiobook which is out now!
my most recent book obsession— this one!!
it gave me all the nostalgic feels from when i've watched the movies and series. the story picked up at such a great place and it felt like i was with all of my best friends again. i loved how the story really shined a bright light on harper's friend group and their love and support of one another. their bond and even harper's vulnerability by the end is what every black man needs— true friendship that challenges you to be better and men who hold you accountable!
— as far as the audiobook goes, we can give these narrators all the awards + a standing ovation because they ate!! @jakobidiem did such an amazing job it sounded like terrence howard himself did the audiobook! honestly, the whole cast nailed it, and the story felt like a warm reunion with long time friends— @zen_will @januarylavoy well done!!
since finishing this masterpiece, i have joined a group of ladies and plan on reading this one again with them this weekend!
my final thought and i promise i'm done— i HATE the way the story ended but my goodness i'm ready for more!!
⭐️ easy 5 stars. go ahead and press play.
September 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5
The Best Man’s Unfinished Business was a ride—and not always a smooth one. Let me tell you, Harper, Robin, and Jordan will absolutely work your nerves in this book. 😅 Each one of them has moments where you want to reach into the pages and shake them, but that’s part of the beauty: the characters feel real, flawed, and messy, just like real life.
Harper’s indecisiveness, Robin’s sharp edge, and Jordan’s ego all collide in ways that make you frustrated one minute and invested the next. But that tension is exactly what kept me turning pages—because you need to see how they’ll navigate through their unfinished business.
The writing is sharp, the emotions run deep, and even when the characters are making choices that made me sigh out loud, I couldn’t put it down. That’s the sign of a story that sticks.
Not a perfect five because a few moments could’ve been drawn out more, but honestly? This is a drama-filled, heartfelt read that will leave you both annoyed and addicted—in the best way.
The Best Man’s Unfinished Business was a ride—and not always a smooth one. Let me tell you, Harper, Robin, and Jordan will absolutely work your nerves in this book. 😅 Each one of them has moments where you want to reach into the pages and shake them, but that’s part of the beauty: the characters feel real, flawed, and messy, just like real life.
Harper’s indecisiveness, Robin’s sharp edge, and Jordan’s ego all collide in ways that make you frustrated one minute and invested the next. But that tension is exactly what kept me turning pages—because you need to see how they’ll navigate through their unfinished business.
The writing is sharp, the emotions run deep, and even when the characters are making choices that made me sigh out loud, I couldn’t put it down. That’s the sign of a story that sticks.
Not a perfect five because a few moments could’ve been drawn out more, but honestly? This is a drama-filled, heartfelt read that will leave you both annoyed and addicted—in the best way.
Read
December 20, 2025As a longtime fan of The Best Man franchise, I was truly looking forward to this continuation and had high hopes for exploring these characters beyond the screen. I really appreciated the concept of the original filmmaker finding a way to continue the story, rather than leaving things where the TV series ended.
Unfortunately, this book did not engage me the way I had hoped. I found the pacing extremely slow, and the depth, energy, and excitement these characters once had on screen seemed to be missing here. This story felt much less upbeat, and the humor that was such a staple of the original show was missing. I DNF’d the book at the 25% mark.
Although this book did not resonate with me, I do believe readers who enjoy slower and more of a deep dive into character development will enjoy this book in this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this title.
Unfortunately, this book did not engage me the way I had hoped. I found the pacing extremely slow, and the depth, energy, and excitement these characters once had on screen seemed to be missing here. This story felt much less upbeat, and the humor that was such a staple of the original show was missing. I DNF’d the book at the 25% mark.
Although this book did not resonate with me, I do believe readers who enjoy slower and more of a deep dive into character development will enjoy this book in this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this title.
August 3, 2025
3.75- You couldn’t pay me to date a man like Harper, lol. I’m sorry. Its a no. Always have to go back to see how to find growth and move forward. Exhausting.
The movie franchise will forever be my favorite.
Robyn and Jordan also needed some growing. Being successful cannot fix what you didnt work out within yourselves.
Definitely ended on a cliffhanger.
The movie franchise will forever be my favorite.
Robyn and Jordan also needed some growing. Being successful cannot fix what you didnt work out within yourselves.
Definitely ended on a cliffhanger.
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