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It's Love I'm After

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Chaniya O’Neal

My mother won’t release me from her mistake. I was my ex’s unplanned side chick and his something to do. I’m struggling to forgive myself for my reckless decision nearly six years ago. Then I encountered him, the sexy stranger whose presence gave me a flicker of hope. The problem is . . . my scars. Is he worth taking a chance with?

Germayne Malone

My ex won’t get the hint that our time has ended, no matter how much I ignore her. My sister fell into the trap, placing me in a situation where I needed an immediate replacement. A minute in her presence had me imagining more than a plus-one at my sister’s wedding. The odds are stacked against me, but I’ve never been one to quit before achieving success. If only I could convince her to give me a chance to show her that she can trust me with everything. We’ve had two prior encounters. Will the third run-in be the charm?

Will Chaniya and Germayne push beyond the haze of uncertainty to pursue a love they’ve never known? Find out within the pages of It’s Love I’m After.

220 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 8, 2025

138 people are currently reading
47 people want to read

About the author

Riley Baxter

46 books97 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Melise.
503 reviews54 followers
Read
July 26, 2025
DNF 67%

Something about this was disorienting and off putting. FMC is a victim of assault and everyone keeps talking about it like it was just a wild freaky affair. She states she was super impaired and engaged with 3 strangers at a frat party. If you can’t remember who you slept with then HOW TF YOU CONSENT?? like that’s not it and the way it addressed PMO. Next up the mean mama trope TIRED, ineffective and poorly done. Why are you accepting verbal abuse and physical harm because it’s your mom who is in no better situation than you. Like wtf. The couple is RUSHING I mean flying to “Love” but it never gives that Germayne just seems thirsty af, like one minute he’s cool with waiting to meet her son two seconds later he’s making suggestions tryna convince her he’s the one to make her family whole. Idk this just wasn’t for me
Profile Image for Wind.
321 reviews4 followers
December 23, 2025
This was a beautiful story featuring Chaniya, a single mom who’s fortunate to have a strong village supporting her and her five-year-old son, and Germayne, a physician assistant who’s genuinely looking for love.
Chaniya has some emotional baggage from current relationships that she needs to work through before she’s able to fully open the door for Germayne. But once she does, Germayne doesn’t waste any time showing her that he’s all in and not just for her, but for her son as well. His intentions are clear, steady, and reassuring.
I do wish we could’ve gone deeper into the circumstances surrounding the conception of Chaniya’s son. While she remembers the names of the men she “slept” with, she was heavily intoxicated at the time, which raises uncomfortable questions. Was it simply reckless behavior, or was something far more troubling involved? I would’ve appreciated more clarity there.
Also, Chaniya’s mom absolutely knew she was wrong for being a hypocrite but one thing Germayne is not going to do is play about his woman. Periodt!
Overall, this was a good read that blended romance, healing, and family dynamics nicely.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC!
Profile Image for Crystal.
103 reviews3 followers
December 22, 2025
ALC Review
📚 Book Title: It’s Love I’m After
✍🏽Author: Riley Baxter
🎙️Narrator: Alyx Monroe & Winston James
📕 Format: 🎧
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 = 3.5
🌶 Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

🕑Quick Take:
Chaniya is a single mom that has the support of her family in raising her five year old son.

Germayne is trying to move on from an ex that just don’t seem to get the message.

Chaniya and Germayne must push pass the past to welcome something new!

💕 What I Loved:
I always fall for the unhinged MMC that knows what they want and stakes their claim. Also, this story highlights the how family patterns can repeat themselves, but there can be redemption and new beginnings.

✨ Tropes:
- Instant Connection
- Step Daddy
- Single Mom
- Chance Encounters

🎭 Narration:
Alyx Monroe and Winston James delivered excellent narration for Chaniya and Germayne. I love Alyx’s youthful and sassy tone for the FMC. Similarly, Winston offers a strong and straightforward delivery that was perfect for Germayne! The two make a dynamic duo!

⚠️ Heads Up (Trigger/Content warnings):
- Unclear Consent
- Cheating
- Questions related to paternity
- Estranged Family Relationships

💭Final Thoughts:
This was my first read by Riley Baxter. The story was engaging and showed how messy life can be. However, I struggled with the conception of her child, considering she was intoxicated and unable to give real consent. I wish there had been more space to acknowledge this and for Chaniya to have a real chance to work through it. Still, I appreciated the restorative love that Chaniya experienced with Germayne.

Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC.
Profile Image for Ebony Essence.
525 reviews24 followers
December 26, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, dreamscape media and the author for this advance audio.

Narrators: Winston James and Alyx Monroe. Winston always knocks his roles out of the park. More and more that I hear Alyx i am liking. She is good.

There was definitely a lot going in this quick read. Kept me entertained from beginning to end. There’s hurt, pain, self discovery, and possibly no consent when under the influence. With all things going on both Chaniya and Germayne made the best of their lives. Ultimately finding their way to each other. Once again this is a quick read so things move fast even though a couple of times i was throwing off but overall i did love the relationship/bond that was built with these characters.

Chaniya’s mom is truly for the birds. You can always tell when a mother is jealous of their daughter. The twist in the story was funny to me and Germayne handled it well. Now i do wish things would have either been resolved or not brought up at all with chaniya. Very pleased that the author showed it’s okay to cut people out of your life if they don’t mean you well.

A good audio and storyline
Profile Image for Mrs..
5,988 reviews106 followers
July 11, 2025
It was definitely love. The story was awesome, it was a good read.
Profile Image for Cjdee H.
6 reviews
July 20, 2025
I love a good Riley Baxter story. This book went to the top of my list as soon as it dropped. As always, it didn't disappoint.

The MMC is a professional in a high stress work environment. He's trying to shake his ex, who's clinging to what was, and trying to get to a place that's not happening. He is imperfect and at a place where he is ready for better.

The FMC is at the end of a subpar relationship where she allowed a toxic man in her space...for a while. She acknowledges he is a buster through her actions... evidenced by her thoughts and actions. Things like she is thinking about decorating and painting as he works towards his orgasmic moment. I imagine he's sweating and panting while she stares at the ceiling, then yawns, asking if he's going to wash-up now or shower at home. Ouch! She could have just said boy stop wasting my time.

The main characters meet and then cross paths in a series of typical human interactions. One interaction leads to a non-typical event requiring them to go into 'fight or flight' together. The MMC shows himself to be ready, willing, and able to put himself out there. The rest is a story of developing something that works.

I like this author's approach of featuring characters from a world with which I identify. Nurses, PA's technologist, etc., from different types of family units.

The story checked all the boxes of content I look for:
-Songs & play lists I can look up and check out
-People with lives and sometimes messy family relationships they have to navigate
-Friends and support circles
-Folks who gather and interact with some characters who are gonna always be funny, messy, annoying, or whatever they are
-People who are moving toward something for the betterment of the culture.

Definitely a recommend read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Danielle Easley.
43 reviews
December 19, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and Riley Baxter for this advanced audiobook.

It’s Love I’m After centers around Chaniya and Germayne, who keep running into each other until after the third encounter they decide to stop pretending there isn’t something there and see what’s really going on. This was a quick read for me. I finished it in under three hours.

Now, with that being said, I do feel like some things were glanced over that could have gone into more depth. I don’t mind a slow burn when it comes with a strong backstory, and that’s just my personal preference. Even so, the story overall was good. The drama, the banter, and the surprises kept me locked in the entire time.

The advanced copy I received was the audiobook, and Alyx Monroe and Winston James were perfect for these characters. They truly brought Chaniya and Germayne to life and made the storyline feel believable and engaging.

Let me just say that Chaniya’s mom needs to be knocked out ASAP. Immediately. On the flip side, I absolutely loved the grandmothers in this book. Top-tier comedy. They were easily some of my favorite parts of the story.

One thing I wasn’t a fan of was how Chaniya’s “scars” were mentioned in the description but then kind of glossed over in the story. Without giving too much away, it felt like that entire situation deserved more attention. I understand that in the end Chaniya realizes her scars weren’t as deep as she thought, but I still found myself thinking… HELLOOOO? That whole situation felt a bit wrong to me.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read with great narration, strong chemistry, and moments that definitely kept me entertained.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for lexx t.
292 reviews2 followers
December 19, 2025
WHEW. It’s Love I’m After had me smiling, kicking my feet, and fully locked in from the start. This love story moves fast but in that addictive way where you do not want it to slow down. Chaniya and Germayne running into each other felt meant to be, like timing finally decided to mind its business. Their connection was instant and the way their lives started weaving together kept me glued to the pages.

Let me talk about Germayne because sir… he did not play about Chaniya. From the jump he knew what he wanted and made sure his actions matched it. And when the step daddy energy showed up? I was DONE. I loved how intentional he was, not just with her but with the life she already had. Chaniya’s journey was just as strong, watching her open herself up to love while still protecting herself felt real and relatable.

The pacing was perfect for this story and never gave me a chance to get bored. It was romantic, heartfelt, and full of moments that made me grin like I knew these people in real life. This book delivered on love, chemistry, and emotional connection without dragging anything out. If you love fast paced romance, men who step up without hesitation, and stories that make you feel giddy, It’s Love I’m After is absolutely for you.
Profile Image for T K Vaugh.
1,538 reviews7 followers
December 8, 2025
Germayne and Chaniya, Love After Our Mistakes

I truly enjoyed this book!!!…I went back to the beginning 2 times because I didn’t want the book to end!!!…
Germayne stepped in, stepped up and didn’t miss a beat after he made his plans very clear!!!…
I love how Chaniya lived her life out loud despite her missteps that led her to an unplanned pregnancy!!!…
Her mother truly wanted to punish her(Chaniya) for her own mistakes!!!…Vernise comparing her wasn’t enough, but her lack of acceptance is crazy!!!…
I was glad that Germayne stepped in and corrected Chaniya’s mom bad behavior and let her know that would be the last time they would see each other again!!!…
Nana and Grandma Jolene cut no corners when they were slinging those insults!!!…
I love how the families were able to come together!!!…
The relationship that Germayne so willingly built with Caleb outside of the relationship he had with Chaniya was beautiful!!!…Caleb was such a sweet, charming little boy and his ability to adjust and spk for himself is proof that Chaniya was doing a great job!!!…
When Nana spk to Vernise I was shouting because she needed that conversation!!!…
Profile Image for Stacie H.
117 reviews
July 29, 2025
Loved It

Germayne and Chaniya's love story was a testament to the power of healing and support. 💕 Despite Chaniya's complex emotional history and personal challenges, Germayne emerged as a compassionate partner dedicated to helping her overcome her past traumas. 🤝 His commitment was particularly evident in his role as a loving father figure to Caleb, demonstrating his deep devotion to the family. 👨‍👩‍👦 The narrative was enriched by the presence of two vibrant grandmothers who brought humor and candor to the story, offering comic relief and unfiltered perspectives. 👵🏽👵🏼 A significant turning point in Chaniya's journey was her courageous decision to sever ties with her toxic mother, a move that symbolized her personal growth and emotional liberation. 💪 The book skillfully balanced light dramatic elements with a profound exploration of love, healing, and familial bonds, creating a compelling and heartwarming narrative that celebrated resilience, understanding, and the transformative power of genuine love. ❤️
Profile Image for SheKea Lindsay.
31 reviews
December 20, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for this ALC! This was one of my favorite reads this year! This book follows Chaniya and Germayne. Chaniya is a single mom and veterinarian assistant who has been trying to get out of her “ex boyfriend” who won’t get the hint that their time has come to an end. She then meets Physician Assistant Germayne at a grocery store who is dealing with a delusional ex that won’t let him go and trying to get him back. Sparks fly but they don’t act on them. They see each other again when her best friend is in labor and she is either her “ex” at the house. Then an unfortunate event happens and they are both in the same place at the same time. This then starts the beginning of their relationship and the rest unfolds after that. This was such a fun and easy feel good read. Then the narrators take this story up a notch. Winston is the best narrator in the game!!! Him and Alyx Monroe are magic together! I will definitely listen again and recommend this to others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jazisunray Skillern.
260 reviews3 followers
December 22, 2025
“It’s Love I’m After” explores the tangled emotions and past mistakes of two people searching for healing and connection. Chaniya is haunted by her past decisions and struggles with self-forgiveness, while Germayne is determined to move forward despite lingering complications from his ex. Their chance encounters spark the possibility of something real, even as doubts and scars linger.

The story offers relatable themes of regret, hope, and the courage it takes to trust again. While the premise is intriguing and the chemistry between the leads comes through, some parts of the narrative could have been fleshed out for greater emotional impact. The pacing feels uneven at times, but overall, the journey of Chaniya and Germayne is engaging enough to keep you turning the pages. If you enjoy contemporary romance with flawed characters and second chances, this book might be worth a read.

Thank you, Riley Baxter, NetGalley, and Dreamscape for this ARC read.
Profile Image for Gwendolyn.
208 reviews1 follower
July 11, 2025
Chaniya and Germayne had a chance 2nd meeting, which caused them to acknowledge their immediate attraction. It was a slow burn type of romance/love. Yes, the roles were reversed, and Chaniya took charge of how she wanted things to proceed.

I liked them taking their time getting to feel and get to know each other. It brings authenticness to a new relationship. That only strengthens their bond. Easing her son Caleb into their lives was an added bonus to both Germayne and Caleb. Caleb was just an adorable little boy.

Their grandmother's were hilarious, as they were introduced, and they realized that an introduction was not needed. I'm glad that Germayne put them both in check. Her mother was a different story. How could she be so nasty and vile. I'm so happy that the relationship was eventually ended.

I enjoyed the read!
Profile Image for Jessica.
440 reviews7 followers
December 25, 2025
5 Stars
ALC thanks to NetGalley

I enjoyed this book. The two main characters Chaniya and Germayne are perfect for each other. It's giving a lot at first sight for him. so it's a he fell first trope.

We meet Chaniya who is a single mom who has a very sensitive story surrounding how her son was conceived. she also deals with issues with her mother that is similar to when a mother doesn't like her daughter relationship but she has a strong village that supports her.

Then Germayne on the other hand is a PA who works in Labor and Delivery who is looking for love and believes that he found his person in. Chaniya when he first encounters her in the local supermarket and then again at the hospital. At the second meeting it was confirmed for him they she was the one.

You will follow their romance from start to finish and how Germayne does all the right things and hoe Chaniya works through her issues and how she lets him in fully.
448 reviews4 followers
July 12, 2025
It's Love I'm After

Riley B., you are a Gem!!

Every book I read that you've penned opens my heart up more and more. I know that you have been going through, but trust me, God's got you.

Now on to my review....love everything about Germayne. A professional man with a little hood and thug sprinkled in is and always my go to. Meeting Chiniya was the missing piece. He was done w.ith bed hopping and his ex, so love was what he was after. He not only found Cha Cha, but Caleb as well.

I love the humor of Grandma Jolene and Nana. Too funny! Vernise was a bitter trip. She needs to get her life and stop blaming ChaCha for her mistakes. Hopefully, we will get Desi and Jarrod's stories.

As always, your books are always so good and feed my soul!
Profile Image for Ruby.
626 reviews2 followers
July 22, 2025
Germayne and Chaniya!!

Germayne made it his mission to go after Chaniya from the first time he saw her. After their third time meeting by chance, the third time was the charm. I really loved Germayne and Chaniya's relationship. I enjoyed their banter, their connection, and the love that they showed one another. I also loved how Germayne stepped up to be the father that Chaniya's son, Caleb, was looking for. The family and friends dynamics were very entertaining, and the grandmothers' shenanigans had me cracking up. 😂😂 I wanted to 👊🏾 Chaniya's mother for her treatment of Chaniya and her hypocritical ways. All in all, Ms. Baxter gave us another well-written story that I truly enjoyed. I'm hoping that she will also give us books on Desi and Jarrod.
Profile Image for Jerrica (Mrsmar10Reads) Martin .
1,645 reviews9 followers
July 30, 2025
Good read

Germayne was solid from the beginning and Chaniya was apprehensive because of her past and her current situation. However, once she gave that man the green light he was definitely on go. What set him apart was the fact he was down like four flats behind her and Caleb and nobody - no matter who they were was going to disrespect the little family he was putting together. Grandma Jolene and Nana were a mess. I would have actually liked to see them squash their beef on page. Chaniya's mom was spiteful and her energy was definitely not needed. I would have liked a more fleshed out story because I felt it lacked something. It still was a good read, so pick it up. Happy Reading Y'all!💋
7 reviews
July 11, 2025
Yeah...NAH 😒😒😒

This book missed at every turn when it came to the FMC she was all over the damn place with her emotions!!! She had me skipping damn near all the pages in her chapters.. She really worked my soul!!
Now to the MMC.. How you call yourself a real one and you got this chick playing with your feelings at every turn?? 🙄🙄 First she nvm.. Y'all will see!! This was a real waste of time!!! I'm abt to read the bible now cause I done cussed too much reading this foolery😒😒😒
1,058 reviews8 followers
July 11, 2025
It’s love I’m after

This was such a good book and had me locked in from the beginning. Germayne wasn’t playing about getting Chaniya to be his. I loved their interactions together and their interactions with their family members and best friends. Their grandmothers had me laughing out loud with their antics. I loved the way that Germayne embraced Caleb and was wanting and willing to step in as his father.

Desi and Jarrod have me intrigued and hoping they get their own stories, especially Desi because he was down bad over Germayne’s cousin.
1,705 reviews7 followers
July 16, 2025
Perfect title 💯

Wow, this is such a good book! I loved the main characters and the side ones too. The whole story is just really well-written. Chaniya's a single mom to Caleb, and things are pretty great, except for her love life. Then she meets Germayne, who's super cute and into her. He's ready to make a move when he gets the chance, and he nails it. They're taking things slow, 'cause they both want this to work out. There are some bumps, but they are there to support each other. Their grandmothers are a hoot. As always, it's my pleasure to read your books 🥰.
Profile Image for Kayla.
372 reviews
December 23, 2025
This was a cute, quick story about found family, acceptance and love. I loved the way the main characters fell in love or at least lust at first sight and they put the in the effort to build a strong, beautiful relationship. I love the way the author built their story without any questionable tropes. Overall, this was an uplifting story with a male lead that is perfection.
The narrators were wonderful. They fit the characters well and provided interesting narration with great editing and production quality.
Profile Image for Keesha.
574 reviews21 followers
December 23, 2025
It’s Love I’m After by Riley Baxter is such a good a good time! It’s a good, relatable story, the banter is great and the narrators kill it (of course).
I loved Chaniya and Germayne and MOST of the side characters. 🙄😆
I smiled, giggled or said “well okay then sir”, the whole time. Riley Baxter was definitely in her comedy bag with this one! There was a scene with 2 bickering old ladies that had me howling.🤣🤣 Easy, funny, sexy read with Alyx Monroe & Winston James doing what they do effortlessly. Tap in!


Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC!
121 reviews1 follower
August 17, 2025
It's Love I'm After

This book was soooo funny from Page 1 I was laughing out loud. Them grandma's mouths and that ancient beef was crazy. Chaniya was just a girl...out here being a single working mom doing her best. Germayne was and is that MAN...step daddy season in full effect. Not that mama, can you say it be your own people I wanted to two piece that lady. This was a very good book.
Profile Image for Roxy Reads.
647 reviews4 followers
August 28, 2025
with purpose

Thus was such a good read just enough… not to much drama but the way Germaine pursued Chaniya was swoon worthy the whole wedding date was hilarious Gma Jolene set Cha-Cha up with that moonshine….whats the deal with the her mother who is her father that the one thing I want answered….and Caleb melted my heart with his acceptance of papa G….now I need that book on Desy and Chardonnay also Jarrod asap
Profile Image for Rita M.
76 reviews2 followers
September 5, 2025
I Love Mrs. Riley Books!

Mrs. Riley always does it for me. This book was FULL of laughter, yet on full display was the dysfunctional spirit of a bitter mother. I LOVE how Germayne not only loved and protected Chaniya but Caleb also. I applaud men who can love a child who belongs to them by his heartstrings. The way she brought the secondary characters to life, I can see a series (praying) Great job, Mrs. Riley.
Profile Image for Kymberly Lamb.
267 reviews3 followers
December 19, 2025
2⭐️ 2🌶️ 4🎧

DNF at 57% - This book was okay, but had too much other woman and other man drama for my liking and I kept finding myself zoning out and not caring about the outcome of the characters and just wanting to get to the end and I knew it was time to call it quits.

Alyx Monroe and Winston James narrated this book and I do enjoy listening to them and enjoy their work.

Thank you Dreamscape Media for an advanced copy of this book.
486 reviews2 followers
July 17, 2025
Grandma Jolene and Nana for the win

As much as I loved Germayne and Cheniya, they gave up a little of the book for shenanigans from Grandma Jolene and Nana. These two old ladies had me cracking up.

Just a great funny read. The side characters added some great touches to the book.
173 reviews
August 6, 2025
Cute Story

It was cool. I didn’t understand her mother and would’ve liked to have more information on that issue. It was also disappointing when she reached out to the trip after the incident in the restaurant, like how did she think it would go. Last but not least…drunk? What happened that night with them?
Profile Image for Jackie Brown.
555 reviews2 followers
October 22, 2025
love found!!!

Too good!!! Every part of the book: from the grandmother’s feuding bout high school drama; to Putting Chaniya mom in her place from spitting nasty words to her own daughter!🤨Germayne was tha man!!! Taking the lead for Caleb n being the man in his life n becoming his dad🥹priceless!!!Great read!!!
Profile Image for Denetta Banks.
3,772 reviews20 followers
October 29, 2025
Enjoyed

I enjoyed this well written book. The title describes the story within. With it's interesting, likeable, well developed characters. A storyline that is funny, loveable, with family dysfunction, past mistakes and some loving family. I definitely enjoyed these characters and their journey to love. This author delivers a good read and I am loving her writing style.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews

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