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Bayou Dreams #2
Always and Forever: Bayou Dreams
After a run of lousy luck, Phylicia Phillips is finally close to reclaiming her cherished girlhood home in Louisiana. But before she can buy it back, Jamal Johnson beats her to the punch. The renowned architect plans to completely renovate the old place and he wants Phylicia to help him! She doesn't trust Jamal, but she's helpless to fight the passion building between them.
Hiring the home restoration specialist to help convert the stately Victorian into a B&B was a stroke of genius. Until Jamal finds out the house was in Phylicia's family for generations. Blindsided by his desire for this alluring beauty, Jamal vows to transform their working relationship into an intimate one. But will threatening troubles from the past keep them from building a blueprint for love?
Hiring the home restoration specialist to help convert the stately Victorian into a B&B was a stroke of genius. Until Jamal finds out the house was in Phylicia's family for generations. Blindsided by his desire for this alluring beauty, Jamal vows to transform their working relationship into an intimate one. But will threatening troubles from the past keep them from building a blueprint for love?
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First published December 18, 2012
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About the author
Farrah Rochon
90 books2,511 followersA native of south Louisiana, Farrah Rochon officially began her writing career while waiting in between classes in the student lounge at Xavier University of Louisiana. After earning her Bachelors of Science degree and a Masters of Arts from Southeastern Louisiana University, Farrah decided to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a published novelist. She was named Shades of Romance Magazine's Best New Author of 2007. Her debut novel, Deliver Me, the first in her Holmes Brothers series, garnered rave reviews, earning Farrah several SORMAG Readers' Choice Awards.
In September 2010, Farrah joined the Kimani Romance family with the launch of her new series that follows the life of the fictional New York Sabers football team.
When she is not writing in her favorite coffee shop, Farrah spends most of her time reading her favorite romance novels, hanging around on Twitter, and trying to attend as many Broadway shows as her budget will allow. An admitted sports fanatic, Farrah feeds her addiction to football by watching New Orleans Saints games on Sunday afternoons.
In September 2010, Farrah joined the Kimani Romance family with the launch of her new series that follows the life of the fictional New York Sabers football team.
When she is not writing in her favorite coffee shop, Farrah spends most of her time reading her favorite romance novels, hanging around on Twitter, and trying to attend as many Broadway shows as her budget will allow. An admitted sports fanatic, Farrah feeds her addiction to football by watching New Orleans Saints games on Sunday afternoons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 20, 2016
I probably would've liked this novel a lot more if it'd had a different heroine. Phylicia was so fucking annoying, I swear.
First, this girl was thirsty af. She kept thirsting after Jamal throughout the entire book, going on and on about how gorgeous and hot he is. But, to be fair, Jamal did the same with her. The difference? Jamal didn't spend half the book pushing her away and denying her like she did with him. I understood her reasons for doing so (because she'd recently been burned by an ex and didn't want to go through that again), but it got frustrating reading her going on about him when would pair it with a rejection soon after. With her constant acknowledgement of his greatness, it made it all the more apparent and annoying whenever she did reject him.
The other reason why I disliked Phylicia was how she felt about Jamal's family and reconciliation. Jamal had a falling out with his father a couple of years back. What was it? He says it's because his father has never respected him. Even when he was in school, he played baseball because it was his father's dream and not his own. He was even grateful when he busted his knee because he wouldn't have to play anymore. When he started working for his family company, he worked lower in the company early on. When his father tried to force him into a leadership role at his company, Jamal resisted, preferring to work with his hands rather than doing that. Things blew up when he said that to his father and the argument just got worse and worse. Jamal brought up what he wanted to add to their family company, which was to incorporate green technology, something he's passionate about. When his dad refused, Jamal responded that he'd just go open his own firm and doing things his own way. What did his father say in response? That "[Jamal would] come crawling back to Johnson Construction with [his] hands stretched out."
Phylicia feels that Jamal needs to patch things up with his father because you never know what could happen. She says this because her last conversation with her father was an argument, which she regrets to this day. So, she spends most of the book trying to get into Jamal's business and force a reconciliation. She keeps harping on about it with Jamal to the point that he just kisses her to shut her up. I generally don't like that, but I didn't mind it here because she was fucking annoying with how she kept forcing the issue even after he told her to stop and to let it go, that he didn't want to talk about it. I wouldn't mind if she'd tried to push the issue once and, once having been shut down, didn't push it again. If the person doesn't want to talk about it or do something about it, who are you to keep pushing it? Like, you've known the dude for like two seconds and you think you get a say in such an important thing? Like stfu forever, please.
I get that it's because of what happened with her dad that she's forcing it. However, I also found that to be pretty stupid. Phylicia says that she was super close with her dad and that he spoiled her and spoiled her. She knows that Jamal's upbringing and relationship with his father is NOTHING like this. So why's she acting like these two relationships are the same thing? Not everyone needs to fucking reconcile with their family. While I adore mine, I also know that family isn't the be-all and end-all. Just because you miss your family, it doesn't mean that you have any right to push those opinions and personal values on other people. And besides, if his father was really SO desperate to reconcile, he could've easily made time to fly out and talk to Jamal himself. But what happens instead? I was so fucking pissed at this point!
And then?
Ugh. Whatever. She ruined the book for me.
First, this girl was thirsty af. She kept thirsting after Jamal throughout the entire book, going on and on about how gorgeous and hot he is. But, to be fair, Jamal did the same with her. The difference? Jamal didn't spend half the book pushing her away and denying her like she did with him. I understood her reasons for doing so (because she'd recently been burned by an ex and didn't want to go through that again), but it got frustrating reading her going on about him when would pair it with a rejection soon after. With her constant acknowledgement of his greatness, it made it all the more apparent and annoying whenever she did reject him.
The other reason why I disliked Phylicia was how she felt about Jamal's family and reconciliation. Jamal had a falling out with his father a couple of years back. What was it? He says it's because his father has never respected him. Even when he was in school, he played baseball because it was his father's dream and not his own. He was even grateful when he busted his knee because he wouldn't have to play anymore. When he started working for his family company, he worked lower in the company early on. When his father tried to force him into a leadership role at his company, Jamal resisted, preferring to work with his hands rather than doing that. Things blew up when he said that to his father and the argument just got worse and worse. Jamal brought up what he wanted to add to their family company, which was to incorporate green technology, something he's passionate about. When his dad refused, Jamal responded that he'd just go open his own firm and doing things his own way. What did his father say in response? That "[Jamal would] come crawling back to Johnson Construction with [his] hands stretched out."
Phylicia feels that Jamal needs to patch things up with his father because you never know what could happen. She says this because her last conversation with her father was an argument, which she regrets to this day. So, she spends most of the book trying to get into Jamal's business and force a reconciliation. She keeps harping on about it with Jamal to the point that he just kisses her to shut her up. I generally don't like that, but I didn't mind it here because she was fucking annoying with how she kept forcing the issue even after he told her to stop and to let it go, that he didn't want to talk about it. I wouldn't mind if she'd tried to push the issue once and, once having been shut down, didn't push it again. If the person doesn't want to talk about it or do something about it, who are you to keep pushing it? Like, you've known the dude for like two seconds and you think you get a say in such an important thing? Like stfu forever, please.
I get that it's because of what happened with her dad that she's forcing it. However, I also found that to be pretty stupid. Phylicia says that she was super close with her dad and that he spoiled her and spoiled her. She knows that Jamal's upbringing and relationship with his father is NOTHING like this. So why's she acting like these two relationships are the same thing? Not everyone needs to fucking reconcile with their family. While I adore mine, I also know that family isn't the be-all and end-all. Just because you miss your family, it doesn't mean that you have any right to push those opinions and personal values on other people. And besides, if his father was really SO desperate to reconcile, he could've easily made time to fly out and talk to Jamal himself. But what happens instead? I was so fucking pissed at this point!
And then?
Ugh. Whatever. She ruined the book for me.
May 12, 2013
Always and Forever is the story of Phylicia and Jamal who are first introduced in A Forever Kind of Love as the best friends of the protagonists (you won’t be lost if you haven’t read the first book). The story is set in Gauthier, Louisiana, the cutest little town this side of Stars Hollow:
Basically, I want to go to there.
Jamal is converting a Victorian home into a green B&B and needs Phil’s assistance as she is “one of the most sought after restoration specialists in the entire region”. Problem is that Phil wants nothing to do with Jamal. See, even though they both felt an immediate attraction and completely bonded at their best friends’ wedding, the next day Phil was like: “And you are?” Ouch. The reason why is completely believable and understandable, but I still felt for Jamal who is, by the way, THE BEST.
He’s such a wonderful character. Sweet, sincere, sexy. And so sensitive!
He just drops nuggets like this one, making me swoooon:
DUDE.
He also…plays the saxophone. I think I’ve watched The Lost Boys one too many times to find that romantic. All I can come up with is cornball. Other things that I quirked my eyebrow at: there’s a bit where “the thought of being mistaken for Phylicia’s husband didn’t scare him as much as he thought it would.” He and Phil are in ARIZONA to go to his sister’s wedding, two seconds after they started dating. So um, you’re in it to win it Jamal. Relax. If anyone should be scared it’s Phil. And Jamal’s actions were a bit too much to swallow at the end. Not that I didn’t get how he could be angry, but the level of anger raised these old eyebrows a bit. No worries though, I welcomed him back with loving arms.
Phil is just as swoon-worthy. She’s hard-working and strong and passionate. It was wonderful watching her finally let her guard down with Jamal. I loved that he didn’t try to solve all of her problems for her and that the obvious “easy fix” was never an option for either of them. Also? Her relationship with her mother brought tears to my eyes.
Love this book. So, so satisfying.
It looked like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting, with its brightly colored storefronts sporting striped awnings and hand-painted We’re Open signs hanging in the windows. Jamal hadn’t known towns like this still existed, especially with predominantly black populations.
Basically, I want to go to there.
Jamal is converting a Victorian home into a green B&B and needs Phil’s assistance as she is “one of the most sought after restoration specialists in the entire region”. Problem is that Phil wants nothing to do with Jamal. See, even though they both felt an immediate attraction and completely bonded at their best friends’ wedding, the next day Phil was like: “And you are?” Ouch. The reason why is completely believable and understandable, but I still felt for Jamal who is, by the way, THE BEST.
He’s such a wonderful character. Sweet, sincere, sexy. And so sensitive!
“Good morning,” Jamal said.
“Good morning,” she answered and moved right past him.
Jamal closed his eyes and let his chin fall to his chest. So much for that.
He just drops nuggets like this one, making me swoooon:
“…I dread even going to the house in the morning, because it’s so damn hard to work near you and not touch you. To have you ignore me. Do you know how much that kills me?”
DUDE.
He also…plays the saxophone. I think I’ve watched The Lost Boys one too many times to find that romantic. All I can come up with is cornball. Other things that I quirked my eyebrow at: there’s a bit where “the thought of being mistaken for Phylicia’s husband didn’t scare him as much as he thought it would.” He and Phil are in ARIZONA to go to his sister’s wedding, two seconds after they started dating. So um, you’re in it to win it Jamal. Relax. If anyone should be scared it’s Phil. And Jamal’s actions were a bit too much to swallow at the end. Not that I didn’t get how he could be angry, but the level of anger raised these old eyebrows a bit. No worries though, I welcomed him back with loving arms.
Phil is just as swoon-worthy. She’s hard-working and strong and passionate. It was wonderful watching her finally let her guard down with Jamal. I loved that he didn’t try to solve all of her problems for her and that the obvious “easy fix” was never an option for either of them. Also? Her relationship with her mother brought tears to my eyes.
Love this book. So, so satisfying.
February 7, 2013
A hot & sexy read. I loved it!!
March 6, 2014
Phylicia Philips is devastated when she hears architect Jamal Johson is the new owner of her childhood home. A few years back she'd trusted the wrong man, who wiped her out financially when he left. She had to choose between paying for the specialised care for her mother, who suffers from dementia, and paying the mortgage, so she chose to sell off the wonderful Victorian. She was getting close to being able to buy it back when Jamal swooped in. It only adds insult to injury that she's seen some of Jamal's work (he's very big on sustainable) and suspects he'll take the same radical approach to renovating the house.
And as if the situation needed to get any more tangled, Jamal and Phyl originally met at the wedding of mutual friends and really hit it off, until Phyl found out who he was and then began to ignore him completely.
As the book starts, Jamal approaches Phyl once again, only from a professional point of view. He's realised he's bit off a bit more than he could chew with the house, and that without professional help, he won't be able to get it ready in time (there's this festival thing it needs to be ready for). Phyl, a very well-regarded restoration specialist, is the perfect person to help. She initially rejects the offer out of hand, but then relents, and as the two spend some time together, Phyl begins to soften towards Jamal.
I appreciate that from this description it sounds like Phyl is unfairly blaming Jamal for something that isn't his fault. Don't worry, she's not that unreasonable and stupid (in fact, she's not unreasonable and stupid at all). Phyl realises Jamal didn't do anything wrong, it's just that it's painful for her to be reminded of what she sees as her failure to keep the house.
The romance develops in a way I enjoyed. There's a bit too much mental lusting at times (and I really hope that Jamal's thing about always “almost” grabbing Phyl’s arse, even when they’d just met, was an exaggeration and just a way of speaking). On the whole, though, they talk, they get to know each other, they realise they fit in well. It first seems that Phyl's trust issues might be what gets in the way of the HEA, but they work through that. And the stuff about sustainable architecture and renovation was fascinating, I loved seeing it.
In the end it's Jamal's family issues that take centre stage. His father, who's built a very successful business, has made it clear that he doesn't believe in Jamal and doesn't think he's got what it takes. At least, that's what Jamal gets from him. They have become estranged, and at the end of the book, there are some developments there. And that's where I thought the book fell down a little bit. The way the conflict then moved on to Jamal and Phyl felt a bit forced, like Rochon needed a conflict at that point of the book but with her characters as she’d previously developed them, it wasn’t quite believable that they would react in the way she needed them to. It felt like an overreaction. Their last fight didn’t seem quite as bad as Jamal was acting. And I was looking forward to seeing how the whole thing with his dad would be resolved (love some family angst!), but Rochon took that off-page, unfortunately.
A very pleasant way to spend a few hours.
MY GRADE: A B-.
And as if the situation needed to get any more tangled, Jamal and Phyl originally met at the wedding of mutual friends and really hit it off, until Phyl found out who he was and then began to ignore him completely.
As the book starts, Jamal approaches Phyl once again, only from a professional point of view. He's realised he's bit off a bit more than he could chew with the house, and that without professional help, he won't be able to get it ready in time (there's this festival thing it needs to be ready for). Phyl, a very well-regarded restoration specialist, is the perfect person to help. She initially rejects the offer out of hand, but then relents, and as the two spend some time together, Phyl begins to soften towards Jamal.
I appreciate that from this description it sounds like Phyl is unfairly blaming Jamal for something that isn't his fault. Don't worry, she's not that unreasonable and stupid (in fact, she's not unreasonable and stupid at all). Phyl realises Jamal didn't do anything wrong, it's just that it's painful for her to be reminded of what she sees as her failure to keep the house.
The romance develops in a way I enjoyed. There's a bit too much mental lusting at times (and I really hope that Jamal's thing about always “almost” grabbing Phyl’s arse, even when they’d just met, was an exaggeration and just a way of speaking). On the whole, though, they talk, they get to know each other, they realise they fit in well. It first seems that Phyl's trust issues might be what gets in the way of the HEA, but they work through that. And the stuff about sustainable architecture and renovation was fascinating, I loved seeing it.
In the end it's Jamal's family issues that take centre stage. His father, who's built a very successful business, has made it clear that he doesn't believe in Jamal and doesn't think he's got what it takes. At least, that's what Jamal gets from him. They have become estranged, and at the end of the book, there are some developments there. And that's where I thought the book fell down a little bit. The way the conflict then moved on to Jamal and Phyl felt a bit forced, like Rochon needed a conflict at that point of the book but with her characters as she’d previously developed them, it wasn’t quite believable that they would react in the way she needed them to. It felt like an overreaction. Their last fight didn’t seem quite as bad as Jamal was acting. And I was looking forward to seeing how the whole thing with his dad would be resolved (love some family angst!), but Rochon took that off-page, unfortunately.
A very pleasant way to spend a few hours.
MY GRADE: A B-.
January 7, 2013
Farrah Rochon has delivered another stunningly romantic installment in her Bayou Dream series. Always and Forever is once again set in the charming small town of Gautheir, Louisiana and features the magnetic love story between Phylicia “Phil” Phillips and Jamal Johnson. Jamal, a world-class architect is doing a hands-on renovation of turning a historical house into a bed-and-breakfast and quickly realizes he is in over-his-head, and the best person to help him out is the last person he wants to call. Jamal does not understand why Phil is not returning his calls, especially after the enjoyable time they spent together at a mutual friends wedding. Phil, a stunningly beautiful restoration specialist, is bossy, opinionated, and purposely avoiding Jamal, but not for the reasons he thinks. In a financial bind, Phil accepts the job from Jamal, and while they immediately clash on the restoration approach they cannot deny the sexual sparks whenever they are around each other. As Jamal patiently woos Phil, she learns to look within herself to what is important. But it is Jamal’s past that will rear its ugly head and be the biggest obstacle to the couple’s happily-ever-after.
Rochon’s storytelling provides a fresh look at a couple learning to love and trust each other as she expertly interweaves the joys and heartache of building a house to last with building a loving strong relationship. While the love scenes are romantic, passionate and sizzle as readers have come to expect in romance books, it is the development of their relationship outside of the bedroom and resolution of their emotional baggage that will tug at the reader’s heart. The characters are delightful and give readers a fascinating glimpse into the dynamics of a small black town using it historical past as a road to its future.
Strong pacing, snappy dialogue and great chemistry make for a sexy, touching and entertaining read. Grab your favorite beverage and cuddle-up as this book is a keeper. I recommend to all romance readers.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes.
Reviewed by Beverly
APOOO Literary Book Review
Rochon’s storytelling provides a fresh look at a couple learning to love and trust each other as she expertly interweaves the joys and heartache of building a house to last with building a loving strong relationship. While the love scenes are romantic, passionate and sizzle as readers have come to expect in romance books, it is the development of their relationship outside of the bedroom and resolution of their emotional baggage that will tug at the reader’s heart. The characters are delightful and give readers a fascinating glimpse into the dynamics of a small black town using it historical past as a road to its future.
Strong pacing, snappy dialogue and great chemistry make for a sexy, touching and entertaining read. Grab your favorite beverage and cuddle-up as this book is a keeper. I recommend to all romance readers.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes.
Reviewed by Beverly
APOOO Literary Book Review
January 23, 2013
I enjoyed this book as I did the prequel, A Forever Kind of Love. I have a different rating system for romance, so this was a 4 on a romance scale. I liked the theme of restoring homes and the historical significance. I loved the setting outside of New Orleans. Now Phil go on my nerves at time. I wanted to strangle her when she was doing all that back and forth. I also liked the theme of family and forgiveness.
January 3, 2013
After reading the first book, A Forever Kind of Love, I could not wait to read Phylicia and Jamal's story. As always, Farrah Rochon did not disappoint. This was a great book from start to finish. The chemistry between Phil and Jamal was off the charts hot. They were perfect for each other. I don't know if there will be more books in the Bayou Dreams series but I hope there is.
December 17, 2025
🎧 Title: Always and Forever-Bayou Dreams #2
✍🏾 Author: Farrah Heron - I read Pugs and Kisses and gave it 5 ⭐
📅Publication date: 12/16/25 | Read:12/16/25
🗣️Narrator: Marissa Hampton voices all the characters with standouts from Phil and Jamal. The reading style brought the text to life, and the author and narrator worked together perfectly. The pacing and flow allowed me to get lost in the story. The narrator paused and announced new chapters and there was a table of contents which helped me follow along.
🏃🏾♀️➡️Run Time: 5:14
Genre:
*Multicultural Interests
*AA Romance
Tropes:
*family drama
*B&B renovation
*small town
*workplace romance
*mutual pining
👆🏾POV: 3rd person dual
⚠️TW: toxic parent-H, estrangement, caretaker, financial woes, death of parent-h, Alzheimer's disease
🌎 Setting: Gauthier, Louisiana
Summary: Phylica is finally able to buy back her great grandfather's house-Belle Maison- but Jamal, her childhood friend, has beaten her to it. He contacts her to help with the renovations and turn it into a B&B. They danced together at their BFFs wedding, but she ghosted him after. She is having financial problems and agrees to join Jamal renovating her family's home. They are already attracted to each other, but Phil wants to keep things professional.
👩🏾 Heroine:Phylica "Phil" Phillips- restoration specialist, lost her family's home when an ex-boyfriend reneged on loans. Paints like her mother
👨🏾 Hero: Jamal Johnson-architect opening his own firm and has a trust fund. His family has a construction company in Phoenix. Played college baseball and still plays saxophone
🎭 Other Characters:
* Mya+Corey-Phil and Jamal's mutual friends
*Kevin-Phil's ex-boyfriend
*Sabina Phillips- Phil's mother-has dementia living in a facility and was a painter, Phil's father-Percy, deceased
*Lawrence Johnson- Jamal's father-wanted him to go into MLB/ had business disagreements, his mother-Catherine
*Lauren Johnson-Jamal's sister getting married
My Thoughts: I didn't know this was published already and part of a series. I was still able to enjoy it without reading book 1. Their attraction was palpable, but Phil was scared to get involved again and then be betrayed. Phil had issues with her mother's declining health, and Jamal and his father disagreed on his professional aspirations. I hated Phil getting involved in Jamal's relationship w/ his father just because she regretted an argument with hers right before his death. This was a HEA after a 3rd act breakup.
Rating: 3.5/5✨
Spice level:4/5 🔥
🙏🏾Thanks to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and Farrah Heron for this ALC! I voluntarily give my honest review, and all opinions are my own.
✍🏾 Author: Farrah Heron - I read Pugs and Kisses and gave it 5 ⭐
📅Publication date: 12/16/25 | Read:12/16/25
🗣️Narrator: Marissa Hampton voices all the characters with standouts from Phil and Jamal. The reading style brought the text to life, and the author and narrator worked together perfectly. The pacing and flow allowed me to get lost in the story. The narrator paused and announced new chapters and there was a table of contents which helped me follow along.
🏃🏾♀️➡️Run Time: 5:14
Genre:
*Multicultural Interests
*AA Romance
Tropes:
*family drama
*B&B renovation
*small town
*workplace romance
*mutual pining
👆🏾POV: 3rd person dual
⚠️TW: toxic parent-H, estrangement, caretaker, financial woes, death of parent-h, Alzheimer's disease
🌎 Setting: Gauthier, Louisiana
Summary: Phylica is finally able to buy back her great grandfather's house-Belle Maison- but Jamal, her childhood friend, has beaten her to it. He contacts her to help with the renovations and turn it into a B&B. They danced together at their BFFs wedding, but she ghosted him after. She is having financial problems and agrees to join Jamal renovating her family's home. They are already attracted to each other, but Phil wants to keep things professional.
👩🏾 Heroine:Phylica "Phil" Phillips- restoration specialist, lost her family's home when an ex-boyfriend reneged on loans. Paints like her mother
👨🏾 Hero: Jamal Johnson-architect opening his own firm and has a trust fund. His family has a construction company in Phoenix. Played college baseball and still plays saxophone
🎭 Other Characters:
* Mya+Corey-Phil and Jamal's mutual friends
*Kevin-Phil's ex-boyfriend
*Sabina Phillips- Phil's mother-has dementia living in a facility and was a painter, Phil's father-Percy, deceased
*Lawrence Johnson- Jamal's father-wanted him to go into MLB/ had business disagreements, his mother-Catherine
*Lauren Johnson-Jamal's sister getting married
My Thoughts: I didn't know this was published already and part of a series. I was still able to enjoy it without reading book 1. Their attraction was palpable, but Phil was scared to get involved again and then be betrayed. Phil had issues with her mother's declining health, and Jamal and his father disagreed on his professional aspirations. I hated Phil getting involved in Jamal's relationship w/ his father just because she regretted an argument with hers right before his death. This was a HEA after a 3rd act breakup.
Rating: 3.5/5✨
Spice level:4/5 🔥
🙏🏾Thanks to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and Farrah Heron for this ALC! I voluntarily give my honest review, and all opinions are my own.
December 20, 2025
3.5 stars.
"Always and Forever" by Farrah Rochon is pretty good. I loved the HGTV aspect of the story, where Jamal, the MMC, has recently purchased and is restoring Phylicia's former home after she was forced to sell it due to financial difficulties/problems paying her bills. Jamal wants to make the property more "green" and eco-friendly, but he needs Phyl's help to do it, as she is one of the best, most well-respected home renovators/restorers in the area. There is some good tension between Phyl and Jamal, especially since they had good but unacted-upon chemistry with one another. This makes sense considering the two of them met at a wedding and had instant chemistry. Their banter is top-notch, though it does get a little mean between them every now and then (though the part about the Fritos feet had me rolling, LOL). I do admit, both Jamal and Phyl got on my nerves from time to time, more Phyl than Jamal, if I'm honest. I don't want to money-shame anyone, but Phyl made bad decisions, which led to the loss of her childhood home. She has no say in what happens with it once it becomes Jamal's, but to me, it felt like she was always trying to worm her decisions into Jamal's brain to convince him to do things her way. There is a lot of family drama going on here, and though it didn't bother me, it sort of shifts the focus away from the romance aspect of the story. I did enjoy how Phyl and Jamal had to learn to trust and love again after they both had bad experiences in their lives. Phyl, in particular, is finding it difficult to trust, and there are several moments where she lets her emotions get the better of her. There are some spicy elements here and there, and I thought they were well-written, but not entirely necessary for this story. The home renovation aspects of the story felt very Hallmark-movie to me (complimentary), and I could see this being turned into a Hallmark movie very easily! Marissa Hampton is an MVP audiobook narrator. I always love hearing her wonderful voice, and she does a terrific job here, pulling double shift as both the male and female lead. Excellent work here!
Thank you to NetGalley, Farrah Rochon, and Dreamscape Media for the complimentary ALC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"Always and Forever" by Farrah Rochon is pretty good. I loved the HGTV aspect of the story, where Jamal, the MMC, has recently purchased and is restoring Phylicia's former home after she was forced to sell it due to financial difficulties/problems paying her bills. Jamal wants to make the property more "green" and eco-friendly, but he needs Phyl's help to do it, as she is one of the best, most well-respected home renovators/restorers in the area. There is some good tension between Phyl and Jamal, especially since they had good but unacted-upon chemistry with one another. This makes sense considering the two of them met at a wedding and had instant chemistry. Their banter is top-notch, though it does get a little mean between them every now and then (though the part about the Fritos feet had me rolling, LOL). I do admit, both Jamal and Phyl got on my nerves from time to time, more Phyl than Jamal, if I'm honest. I don't want to money-shame anyone, but Phyl made bad decisions, which led to the loss of her childhood home. She has no say in what happens with it once it becomes Jamal's, but to me, it felt like she was always trying to worm her decisions into Jamal's brain to convince him to do things her way. There is a lot of family drama going on here, and though it didn't bother me, it sort of shifts the focus away from the romance aspect of the story. I did enjoy how Phyl and Jamal had to learn to trust and love again after they both had bad experiences in their lives. Phyl, in particular, is finding it difficult to trust, and there are several moments where she lets her emotions get the better of her. There are some spicy elements here and there, and I thought they were well-written, but not entirely necessary for this story. The home renovation aspects of the story felt very Hallmark-movie to me (complimentary), and I could see this being turned into a Hallmark movie very easily! Marissa Hampton is an MVP audiobook narrator. I always love hearing her wonderful voice, and she does a terrific job here, pulling double shift as both the male and female lead. Excellent work here!
Thank you to NetGalley, Farrah Rochon, and Dreamscape Media for the complimentary ALC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Title: Always and Forever
Series: Bayou Dreams #2
Author: Farrah Rochon
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Melissa Hampton
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Genre: Romance
Pub Date: December 16, 2025
My Rating: 3 Stars
Pages: 224
Although I am not a big romance fan the blurb got my attention and it looks like a fun read.’
Jamal Johnson met Phylicia Philips at their best friend’s wedding and was immediately attracted to each other.
Now Phylicia is devastated when she hears an architect is the new owner of her childhood home. A few years back she made a big financial mistake and is now having problems paying her bills. Now with the cost of mother’s specialized care as she is suffering from dementia, and cannot pay the mortgage, so she has to sell off their Victorian home. She was getting close to being able to buy it back when the architect buys and plans to refurbished and turn it into a B& B. Phylicia is livid and ever more upset when she realizes that she knows the architect. Yep the same guy she fell for at the wedding.
I thought narrator Melissa Hampton was great but I found Phylicia was annoying.
I thought this had the makings of a sweet romance but it just didn’t come off that way for me. It good but to me it wasn’t great! At least it was a quick read.
Want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date is schedule for December 16, 2025.
Series: Bayou Dreams #2
Author: Farrah Rochon
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Melissa Hampton
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Genre: Romance
Pub Date: December 16, 2025
My Rating: 3 Stars
Pages: 224
Although I am not a big romance fan the blurb got my attention and it looks like a fun read.’
Jamal Johnson met Phylicia Philips at their best friend’s wedding and was immediately attracted to each other.
Now Phylicia is devastated when she hears an architect is the new owner of her childhood home. A few years back she made a big financial mistake and is now having problems paying her bills. Now with the cost of mother’s specialized care as she is suffering from dementia, and cannot pay the mortgage, so she has to sell off their Victorian home. She was getting close to being able to buy it back when the architect buys and plans to refurbished and turn it into a B& B. Phylicia is livid and ever more upset when she realizes that she knows the architect. Yep the same guy she fell for at the wedding.
I thought narrator Melissa Hampton was great but I found Phylicia was annoying.
I thought this had the makings of a sweet romance but it just didn’t come off that way for me. It good but to me it wasn’t great! At least it was a quick read.
Want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date is schedule for December 16, 2025.
December 12, 2025
I love the house restoration theme. Yes, I am obsessed with those shows where you help the old houses find their spark. Just like the female main character, not that she is old, but though all the hardships, she eventually found her spark again. Male main character was not my favourite. I missed the sparks in his personality.
I wish there was less family drama, though. It was just too much of it for me. The longer I listened the harder was for me to enjoy it.
When it comes to audio narration, I have to say that it was great! I loved the smooth voice of narrator. It fit the vibe of the book so well. And the sound was super clear.
Overall, not my favourite book, but not the worst.
2,5 stars
Thank you to net gallery shelf for audiobook arc
I wish there was less family drama, though. It was just too much of it for me. The longer I listened the harder was for me to enjoy it.
When it comes to audio narration, I have to say that it was great! I loved the smooth voice of narrator. It fit the vibe of the book so well. And the sound was super clear.
Overall, not my favourite book, but not the worst.
2,5 stars
Thank you to net gallery shelf for audiobook arc
December 12, 2025
ALC Review
Rated 3.5 Stars
Always and Forever was a cute, sweet and easy read with family drama. I quite enjoyed it even thoughI wasn't overly fond of the heroine. I didn't like her attitude towards hero at first but I enjoyed their journey so much. I breezed through it pretty quickly.
The narrator, Marissa Hampton did such a great job of not only bringing this story to life but also voicing all the characters. She did her thing with the characterization. I loved her voice and so enjoyed listening to her.
I loved the small town vibe and comfy, cozy feel of this story. I definitely recommend it.
Copy provided by publisher through NetGalley
Rated 3.5 Stars
Always and Forever was a cute, sweet and easy read with family drama. I quite enjoyed it even thoughI wasn't overly fond of the heroine. I didn't like her attitude towards hero at first but I enjoyed their journey so much. I breezed through it pretty quickly.
The narrator, Marissa Hampton did such a great job of not only bringing this story to life but also voicing all the characters. She did her thing with the characterization. I loved her voice and so enjoyed listening to her.
I loved the small town vibe and comfy, cozy feel of this story. I definitely recommend it.
Copy provided by publisher through NetGalley
December 15, 2025
This was a short romance between Phylicia, an interior designer and Jamal who recently purchased her home. He hires her to help renovate the house and she needs the money to support her mom.
I enjoyed the tension between them and there was a lot of internal dialogue of how much they appreciate each other physically. I enjoyed Jamal as a character but Phy frustrated me.
I didnt think it was appropriate for what she did for Jamal and his situation.
Marissa Hampton did a great job on the narration.
Thank you @dreamscapemedia for a copy of the audiobook.
I enjoyed the tension between them and there was a lot of internal dialogue of how much they appreciate each other physically. I enjoyed Jamal as a character but Phy frustrated me.
I didnt think it was appropriate for what she did for Jamal and his situation.
Marissa Hampton did a great job on the narration.
Thank you @dreamscapemedia for a copy of the audiobook.
December 17, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟
Always and Forever is book two in the Bayou Dreams series. If you're looking for a Black romance with home renovation TV vibes mixed with Hallmark Channel vibes, this book is for you.
The audiobook is narrated by Marissa Hampton. She did a good job bringing these characters to life and giving them depth. She was easy to listen to and understand. I listened at 2x speed.
Thank you, NetGalley, and Dreamscape Media for the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Always and Forever is book two in the Bayou Dreams series. If you're looking for a Black romance with home renovation TV vibes mixed with Hallmark Channel vibes, this book is for you.
The audiobook is narrated by Marissa Hampton. She did a good job bringing these characters to life and giving them depth. She was easy to listen to and understand. I listened at 2x speed.
Thank you, NetGalley, and Dreamscape Media for the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
December 22, 2025
Thank you to Dreamscape Media for the advance listener copy of Always & Forever by Farrah Rochon.
Another lovely romance by Farrah Rochon! I enjoyed the tension between Phylicia and Jamal leading up to when they began a relationship. When our two main characters fall for each other, they fall hard!
Marissa Hampton does a wonderful job narrating this story - I enjoyed the last story Marissa narrated of Farrah Rochon’s and was excited to see the name when requesting this audiobook!
Another lovely romance by Farrah Rochon! I enjoyed the tension between Phylicia and Jamal leading up to when they began a relationship. When our two main characters fall for each other, they fall hard!
Marissa Hampton does a wonderful job narrating this story - I enjoyed the last story Marissa narrated of Farrah Rochon’s and was excited to see the name when requesting this audiobook!
August 12, 2017
I told Farrah I was going to re-read this series because her work just puts me in a certain mood. As always, absolutely enjoyable from the setting to the fireworks between her characters. #Ontothenextone!
November 6, 2019
Bring On The Series
I’ve enjoyed the story and have the next book ready for me to continue with the series. I love the characters.
I’ve enjoyed the story and have the next book ready for me to continue with the series. I love the characters.
January 12, 2013
This book tell the story of Jamal Johnson who met Phylicia at their best friend’s wedding and is attracted to her. They basically spend the night talking away till sunrise. But what he does not understand was the cold shoulder treatment that he received when he called the next day. Phylicia, on the other hand, doesn’t want to have any form of contact with Jamal as she discovered that he bought her home and intend to convert it into a B&B. To make things worse, he intend to incorporate the green technology in the B&B and coupled with the fact that she is a restoration specialist, obviously they won’t be able to see eye to eye with each other.
Reading this book makes me feel bad for Phylicia as she obviously still carrying her guilty conscience for losing her family home which has been passed down to her from her ancestor and having to care for her mother who is suffering from dementia. And after being betrayed by her boyfriend and straddled with huge debt, commitment to another person is something that is far from her mind.
It is a refreshing book to read where it is about two individuals learning to love and trusts each other, support each other during their ordeal with their family and learning to forgive one for the mistake that they have make.
Reading this book makes me feel bad for Phylicia as she obviously still carrying her guilty conscience for losing her family home which has been passed down to her from her ancestor and having to care for her mother who is suffering from dementia. And after being betrayed by her boyfriend and straddled with huge debt, commitment to another person is something that is far from her mind.
It is a refreshing book to read where it is about two individuals learning to love and trusts each other, support each other during their ordeal with their family and learning to forgive one for the mistake that they have make.
November 30, 2012
We first met home restorer Phylicia Phillips and architect Jamal Johnson in the book A Forever Kind of Love. It was clear then that even though the two didn't care for each other, they were perfect for each other.
Jamal has left his family construction business to start his own architectural firm, but is doing house renovations in the interim. He runs up against a deadline during his current project and realizes that he will need help in order to get the bed & breakfast ready in time for the holidays. Phylicia is the best restorer in the area, but doesn't always approve of the "green" methods that Jamal uses while refurbishing homes. She needs the money, though, and has a personal history tied to the house, so she reluctantly agrees to help him.
Working together isn't easy, not only because of their differing design ideas, but also the sparks that fly between them. It's like HGTV with romance involved!
Jamal has left his family construction business to start his own architectural firm, but is doing house renovations in the interim. He runs up against a deadline during his current project and realizes that he will need help in order to get the bed & breakfast ready in time for the holidays. Phylicia is the best restorer in the area, but doesn't always approve of the "green" methods that Jamal uses while refurbishing homes. She needs the money, though, and has a personal history tied to the house, so she reluctantly agrees to help him.
Working together isn't easy, not only because of their differing design ideas, but also the sparks that fly between them. It's like HGTV with romance involved!
January 11, 2013
Love and Forgiveness
Always and Forever was the second book in Farrah Rochon's Bayou Dreams series. In this installment we find Phylicia Phillips and Jamal Johnson working together to restore Phylicia childhood home. Jamal had an instance attaction to Phylicia since Corey and Mya's wedding and cannot fathom why Phylicia is harboring such animosity towards him. When he offers her a job to assist in the restoration of a victorian home sparks and anger flies. Phylicia is reluctant to assist because she recognizes the attraction and she is also dealing with past issues regarding the restoration of the home. Will these two stop fighting their demons and feelings and find their way to each other? This was a good story on finding forgiveness as well as opening your heart to love. The attraction was evident from page one. Great story.
Always and Forever was the second book in Farrah Rochon's Bayou Dreams series. In this installment we find Phylicia Phillips and Jamal Johnson working together to restore Phylicia childhood home. Jamal had an instance attaction to Phylicia since Corey and Mya's wedding and cannot fathom why Phylicia is harboring such animosity towards him. When he offers her a job to assist in the restoration of a victorian home sparks and anger flies. Phylicia is reluctant to assist because she recognizes the attraction and she is also dealing with past issues regarding the restoration of the home. Will these two stop fighting their demons and feelings and find their way to each other? This was a good story on finding forgiveness as well as opening your heart to love. The attraction was evident from page one. Great story.
January 11, 2013
Such a sweet romance. Phil's bad experience with a former love almost cost her everything. She is barley maintaining her responsibilities and to top it off she is asked to help restore the home that once belonged to her family. Jamal who is essentially hiding from the issues of his past comes to Phil's town to essentially start his life new. Eventually they of course start dating and that's when things get interesting. There story is such a sweet story because of the struggles they had to let go of in order to really love one another. Another excellent book by Farrah!!!
February 25, 2016
Quick read, was able to read this one in a couple of hours after finishing book one and wanting to hear Phil and Jamal's story. I love home makeover shows and this story gives you some of that plus a whole lot of sexy times, steamy romance. This book is much hotter than book one, which makes sense since they don't have a shared history. The surrounding story is explored more in this book. I did think Phil got over Jamal's temper tantrum way to quickly for how mean he was but whatever I guess. Definitely liked this one more than book one.
August 29, 2013
"Always and Forever" Farrah Rochon's second installment in The Bayou Dreams Series spoke volumes. Phylicia Phillips and Jamal Johnson instant attraction began in A Forever Kind of Love. Here we see two kindred spirits who connect as their lives parallel each other. I truly have enjoyed both books in this series and look forward to its continuation. A must purchase for Farrah Rochon fans like myself.
August 3, 2013
I love this book. I felt myself go through the pain and heartbreak both main characters - Phylicia Philips and Jamal Johnson - feel. It was a good book and I highly recommend it to other romantics. I enjoyed seeing their relationshiop blossom. Although I did get annoyed with Phylicia for continuously blocking Jamal out of her life, she eventually came around. This is one of my favourite love stories.
April 4, 2013
Struggling to stay a float Phylicia Phillips has hopes of buying back her child hood home. She has to put away her anger and go to work for the new owner Jamal Johnson. They disagree at every turn on what's right to restore the house. Can there be a happy ending before the wall fall down?
April 25, 2014
It was pleasant, and Phyl's hopes, losses, and unique professional life made her a vivid lead for a series romance. Jamal, on the other hand, was a bit bland, and his family drama didn't read like honest conflict. Nice enough!
January 3, 2013
review to come.
Read
December 29, 2014Miniseries: Bayou Dreams
May 31, 2013
It was really sweet and I fell a little bit in love with Jamal myself :)
July 10, 2014
EXCELLENT NOVEL SO FAR!! PHIL AND JAMAL FOUND LOVE WITH EACH OTHER!!!! EXCELLENT NOVEL!!!
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