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Commitment #4
The Fall
In the summer of her fifteenth year as a professor at Gilchrist College, Lorna Terry is at a crossroads and, she fears, also on the downswing of her career as the “sole remaining radical feminist in academia.” Having built her life on a theory of non-attachment, she is disturbed to find herself becoming very much attached to the somewhat younger, Malcolm T. Mitchell. A writer-on-the rise, and her college’s newest wunderkind, Malcolm is about to challenge everything she thought she ever knew about her life, her loves, and her work. But her growing feelings for Malcolm may well be the least of Lorna’s worries. For some in her academic community, she has risen too far, and too fast. And for others, she is much too smug in her accomplishments, enjoys adulation she doesn’t deserve, and is much too proud. And you know what they say about pride … It cometh before the fall.
466 pages, Paperback
First published April 20, 2016
84 people are currently reading
305 people want to read
About the author
Nia Forrester
67 books957 followersI live in Philadelphia, PA where by day I work on public policy reform, and by night I read authors who move me, and write woman-centered fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
April 26, 2025
4.5 stars. Older woman - younger man trope, and it works really well in this book. Lorna is a high profile college professor of women's studies, and Malcolm is a new professor, younger than her but still quite mature, who has just written a bestselling book. Both highly intelligent, interesting and complex characters. Just the kind of characters I enjoy reading about.
This book is connected to the Commitment series, because Lorna the MFC is Riley's mom (from Commitment). The two of them have a beautiful mother-daughter relationship. In this book we get to see some of Riley's back story (as well as her mother's) and we get lovely glimpses of Riley's husband Shawn and their family as well. This book could easily be read as a standalone, however.
The development of Lorna and Malcolm's relationship was done beautifully. The push and pull, the attraction, the struggles, and ultimately, the love. Lorna in particular grew as a character. I loved her complexity. Like all of us she has her human failings, but I loved her personal strength and her integrity.
A terrific book that I have enjoyed as much on reread as the first time.
This book is connected to the Commitment series, because Lorna the MFC is Riley's mom (from Commitment). The two of them have a beautiful mother-daughter relationship. In this book we get to see some of Riley's back story (as well as her mother's) and we get lovely glimpses of Riley's husband Shawn and their family as well. This book could easily be read as a standalone, however.
The development of Lorna and Malcolm's relationship was done beautifully. The push and pull, the attraction, the struggles, and ultimately, the love. Lorna in particular grew as a character. I loved her complexity. Like all of us she has her human failings, but I loved her personal strength and her integrity.
A terrific book that I have enjoyed as much on reread as the first time.
June 13, 2016
Nia Forrester is a writer's writer, and she continues to showcase why with "The Fall." As usual, her command for language is readily apparent throughout the novel, but it's her incredible character development that's always the real draw.
Here, she offers a character study on a flawed but dynamic woman, Lorna Terry. And while the elements of romance are vivid, especially with the introduction of the charmingly irresistible Malcolm T. Mitchell, who finds himself drawn to Lorna in spite of his own internal warnings, "The Fall" is really about Lorna's growth as a woman, mother and lover. It's about how a woman who on the surface appears unbreakable, begins to heal internally, and come to terms with her past, present, and what she hopes will be her future.
This is definitely among Nia's best works. The writing is engaging and thought-provoking, so much so that these characters will likely linger with you long after you've finished reading.
Here, she offers a character study on a flawed but dynamic woman, Lorna Terry. And while the elements of romance are vivid, especially with the introduction of the charmingly irresistible Malcolm T. Mitchell, who finds himself drawn to Lorna in spite of his own internal warnings, "The Fall" is really about Lorna's growth as a woman, mother and lover. It's about how a woman who on the surface appears unbreakable, begins to heal internally, and come to terms with her past, present, and what she hopes will be her future.
This is definitely among Nia's best works. The writing is engaging and thought-provoking, so much so that these characters will likely linger with you long after you've finished reading.
April 30, 2016
Absolutely and without a doubt the BEST book I've read this year! Nia Forrester is certainly one of the best contemporary writers of this generation.
April 30, 2016
Reading The Fall, I couldn't help reflecting upon the maturity and sheer talent in the self-publishing vaults these days. Nia Forrester's latest release is a shining example of unapologetic self-publishing class!
Nia Forrester is a brilliant and natural writer, who has a good character one liner in the novel that pertains to the flawed boundaries of women's fiction. It reads...
"No one has ever explained to my satisfaction the difference between popular and literary fiction. Seems to me it's a distinction meant only to belittle the people who outsell you."
(The Fall, Nia Forrester)
Enough said. OK, off the soapbox, and down to the review, because this novel is a class act.
In The Fall, the author tells the story of Professor Lorna Terry, a feminist academic, the mother of Riley (for those Commitment Series fans). Lorna is a woman with many 'perceived' flaws. She is an individual who has lived her life, for better or for worse, on her terms. She's made her fair share of mistakes both in the relationship and mothering department, but for me she remains a heroic figure for reasons only fully fleshed out towards the end. No spoliers.
Lorna is a complex, but trickily endearing mother, with her fair share of concomitant intentional and unintentional bad calls over the years. The Fall serves up, in a full-length novel, Lorna's past and present days of reckoning.
But Lorna Terry is a survivor. And, her means of survival has involved her having erected an impenetrable wall around her innermost feelings. She is capable of deep love, but these truths are rarely demonstrated, often thwarted by unfortunate circumstances and entrenched fears, which she carries around with her like ghosts. Any man who has ever come close to winning Lorna's heart has usually been repelled as easily as they were allowed in.
As a feminist firebrand, Lorna has risen to the intellectual pinnacle at the lofty Gilchrist College defending her version of female liberation to the hilt. Her reputation preceeds her at every turn. It has become her cloak, helping her keep the reins of her life firmly in hand, to orchestrate things her way, and, in doing so, keep the lid on a deep sense of vulnerability.
Enter Malcolm T.Mitchell...
Malcolm is a rising academic star and new addition to the Collegiate staff. He is a best-selling author and is nearly 10 years Lorna Terry's junior. Malcolm is a gorgeous, strong, warmhearted man, Lorna's intellectual equal, who, recently divorced, is in search of loyalty in love. The sexy attraction which ensues between the two is both immediate and unstoppable.
Given Lorna's academic standing, her wobbly emotional track-record, the romance which develops between Malcolm and Lorna is one that encourages much thought.
Lorna has built a career upon a feminism which represents the freedom to be 'all' woman without the pressures of gender role playing. Except, times are a-changing, as every aspect of her personal and professional life comes under scrutiny. Nia Forrester gives the reader a rich deconstruction of some of the interesting sticking points in feminist theory, through Lorna's own conflictual circumstances.
Malcolm is effectively present to witness Lorna's undoing. But, he also manages to shine a light within, helping Lorna to come to terms with her personal journey.
With Malcolm at her side, Lorna faces her past of sometimes poor judgment, prideful ambition, and reckless urges, and offers her the final challenge as it were. To truly open her heart. Face her fears, and realize she's still standing.
I can understand how Lorna's character would not be to everyone's taste. However, as I grow older, I can more than appreciate that life is rarely straight-forward, and perhaps a well-lived rich life is not conducive to keeping things always neat and tidy. Strong characters like Lorna are representative of those who opt to 'live' life, warts and all. Perhaps this may be interpreted as selfish and immature, but in Lorna's case it is certainly not without tender reason and an appreciation of consequence.
The Fall is filled with a rich cast of characters, some old, some new, who, similar to a Franzen novel are well-fleshed out and bear complications, hopes and dreams all of their own. Nia Forrester does not shy away from such character complexities, and there is something for everyone here. The author does a brilliant job in illustrating so many of the beautiful fickle nuances of love.
Final word, check-out The Fall. If you haven't already done so...what the heck are you waiting for? This is a 5 star read!!!
Nia Forrester is a brilliant and natural writer, who has a good character one liner in the novel that pertains to the flawed boundaries of women's fiction. It reads...
"No one has ever explained to my satisfaction the difference between popular and literary fiction. Seems to me it's a distinction meant only to belittle the people who outsell you."
(The Fall, Nia Forrester)
Enough said. OK, off the soapbox, and down to the review, because this novel is a class act.
In The Fall, the author tells the story of Professor Lorna Terry, a feminist academic, the mother of Riley (for those Commitment Series fans). Lorna is a woman with many 'perceived' flaws. She is an individual who has lived her life, for better or for worse, on her terms. She's made her fair share of mistakes both in the relationship and mothering department, but for me she remains a heroic figure for reasons only fully fleshed out towards the end. No spoliers.
Lorna is a complex, but trickily endearing mother, with her fair share of concomitant intentional and unintentional bad calls over the years. The Fall serves up, in a full-length novel, Lorna's past and present days of reckoning.
But Lorna Terry is a survivor. And, her means of survival has involved her having erected an impenetrable wall around her innermost feelings. She is capable of deep love, but these truths are rarely demonstrated, often thwarted by unfortunate circumstances and entrenched fears, which she carries around with her like ghosts. Any man who has ever come close to winning Lorna's heart has usually been repelled as easily as they were allowed in.
As a feminist firebrand, Lorna has risen to the intellectual pinnacle at the lofty Gilchrist College defending her version of female liberation to the hilt. Her reputation preceeds her at every turn. It has become her cloak, helping her keep the reins of her life firmly in hand, to orchestrate things her way, and, in doing so, keep the lid on a deep sense of vulnerability.
Enter Malcolm T.Mitchell...
Malcolm is a rising academic star and new addition to the Collegiate staff. He is a best-selling author and is nearly 10 years Lorna Terry's junior. Malcolm is a gorgeous, strong, warmhearted man, Lorna's intellectual equal, who, recently divorced, is in search of loyalty in love. The sexy attraction which ensues between the two is both immediate and unstoppable.
Given Lorna's academic standing, her wobbly emotional track-record, the romance which develops between Malcolm and Lorna is one that encourages much thought.
Lorna has built a career upon a feminism which represents the freedom to be 'all' woman without the pressures of gender role playing. Except, times are a-changing, as every aspect of her personal and professional life comes under scrutiny. Nia Forrester gives the reader a rich deconstruction of some of the interesting sticking points in feminist theory, through Lorna's own conflictual circumstances.
Malcolm is effectively present to witness Lorna's undoing. But, he also manages to shine a light within, helping Lorna to come to terms with her personal journey.
With Malcolm at her side, Lorna faces her past of sometimes poor judgment, prideful ambition, and reckless urges, and offers her the final challenge as it were. To truly open her heart. Face her fears, and realize she's still standing.
I can understand how Lorna's character would not be to everyone's taste. However, as I grow older, I can more than appreciate that life is rarely straight-forward, and perhaps a well-lived rich life is not conducive to keeping things always neat and tidy. Strong characters like Lorna are representative of those who opt to 'live' life, warts and all. Perhaps this may be interpreted as selfish and immature, but in Lorna's case it is certainly not without tender reason and an appreciation of consequence.
The Fall is filled with a rich cast of characters, some old, some new, who, similar to a Franzen novel are well-fleshed out and bear complications, hopes and dreams all of their own. Nia Forrester does not shy away from such character complexities, and there is something for everyone here. The author does a brilliant job in illustrating so many of the beautiful fickle nuances of love.
Final word, check-out The Fall. If you haven't already done so...what the heck are you waiting for? This is a 5 star read!!!
May 6, 2016
Intriguing!!!!
I have been reading rave reviews of Lorna and Malcolm's story and they are well deserved. I was introduced to Lorna in previous books as Riley's mother. She has always been a strong character that marches to the beat of her own drum. Fiercely independent and liberating, she is not concerned about what others think.
Mitchell had just come off a divorce with a cheating wife. He was intrigued with Lorna from the beginning. He was not deterred by her harsh, sarcastic personally. He made it known that he was not a pushover; surprisingly she allowed it.
I enjoyed how the characters developed throughout the book. The storyline was engaging and heartwarming.
I have been reading rave reviews of Lorna and Malcolm's story and they are well deserved. I was introduced to Lorna in previous books as Riley's mother. She has always been a strong character that marches to the beat of her own drum. Fiercely independent and liberating, she is not concerned about what others think.
Mitchell had just come off a divorce with a cheating wife. He was intrigued with Lorna from the beginning. He was not deterred by her harsh, sarcastic personally. He made it known that he was not a pushover; surprisingly she allowed it.
I enjoyed how the characters developed throughout the book. The storyline was engaging and heartwarming.
May 14, 2016
Some books are so beautifully written that you do not want them to end. That's how I felt while reading Nia Forrester's The Fall. This is pure, character-driven fiction at its best. For The Fall, the seventh book in the Commitment series, we follow Dr. Lorna Terry, feminist and Women's Studies professor at the prestigious Gilchrist College, as she comes to a crossroads in her life. A shining star at the college whose intelligence and charisma attract students to her like bees to honey--which leads to jealousy among some of her colleagues.
When Lorna meets critically acclaimed author Malcolm T. Mitchell, the latest instructor to join the Gilchrist fold, the chemistry between them is electric. And what she thinks will only be a fling becomes so much more. For Lorna, their burgeoning relationship gives her sustenance and disturbs her--she is not used to craving someone as she craves Malcolm. But Lorna has a hard time letting him in and her past mistakes begin affecting the present. When a scandal erupts and puts Lorna's career in jeopardy, she is forced to question her beliefs and her own actions.
What I loved about The Fall? That's easy--everything. The characterisation is so detailed and deftly handled -- every character, especially Lorna and Malcolm--rings true. I believed completely in their relationship and their backstory. Lorna's difficulty in revealing more of herself to Malcolm, the secrets she keeps from him and her daughter Riley... the one-night stand that comes back to haunt her--yes, the conflicts in The Fall are skilfully handled and keep you fully invested in Lorna's story.
The Fall is not a story for you if you want a quick read. This is a novel you will want to savour and the more you learn about Lorna and Malcolm, the more you want to know. I loved reading The Fall. I loved how rich the language was and how fulfilling every page felt. This is not a romance--it's beautifully written literary fiction that speaks to readers of women's fiction. It's compelling, it makes you think and I am loath to read another book too soon because I want to hold on a little longer to Lorna and Malcolm's story.
A definite five-star read. Highly recommended!
When Lorna meets critically acclaimed author Malcolm T. Mitchell, the latest instructor to join the Gilchrist fold, the chemistry between them is electric. And what she thinks will only be a fling becomes so much more. For Lorna, their burgeoning relationship gives her sustenance and disturbs her--she is not used to craving someone as she craves Malcolm. But Lorna has a hard time letting him in and her past mistakes begin affecting the present. When a scandal erupts and puts Lorna's career in jeopardy, she is forced to question her beliefs and her own actions.
What I loved about The Fall? That's easy--everything. The characterisation is so detailed and deftly handled -- every character, especially Lorna and Malcolm--rings true. I believed completely in their relationship and their backstory. Lorna's difficulty in revealing more of herself to Malcolm, the secrets she keeps from him and her daughter Riley... the one-night stand that comes back to haunt her--yes, the conflicts in The Fall are skilfully handled and keep you fully invested in Lorna's story.
The Fall is not a story for you if you want a quick read. This is a novel you will want to savour and the more you learn about Lorna and Malcolm, the more you want to know. I loved reading The Fall. I loved how rich the language was and how fulfilling every page felt. This is not a romance--it's beautifully written literary fiction that speaks to readers of women's fiction. It's compelling, it makes you think and I am loath to read another book too soon because I want to hold on a little longer to Lorna and Malcolm's story.
A definite five-star read. Highly recommended!
August 5, 2017
Dr. Lorna "Motherf*cking Terry came all the way through in headlining her own story which I know for myself and many others have been waiting for since book 1 which is aptly called "Commitment" which features her daughter Riley and her husband Shawn.
Lorna is 46 years old now and finds herself restless and beginning to panic, she has accomplished more in her career than most people only dream of, she is at the top of her game, the Creme DE La Creme and yet she is unchallenged, exhausted and wondering if this is it and has she hit the glass ceiling?
Malcolm T. Mitchell a former attorney, turned number one selling author and now adding to his resume a professor at the esteemed Gilchrist College, he is sexy, smart and an amazing man. His personal life, finds him divorced and a father to two young girls but he is not angry, he feels free and excited to be pursuing his dreams. And at a faculty mixer and surrounded by women professor, in comes the infamous Dr. Lorna Terry, to the chagrin of the women vying for his attention and to his delight.
Lorna has done many things in her life and has always been quick to anticipate each one but nothing and no one could have prepared her for the Tsunami that is Malcolm. Lorna finds herself in a quandary where a part of her wants to flee and another part of her want to stay in his arms forever but what others don't know about Lorna (not even her own daughter) are the demons she has successfully kept at bay for so many years are now threatening to come spilling out of her heavily padded closet and the one person who has the key and want to unlock them all is Malcolm. But what Malcolm doesn't realize is, Lorna is not going down without a fight and will fight him till the last breath leaves her body.
Malcolm has never met a woman so vivacious, smart, funny and so heavily layered with battle armor. He can't get enough of Lorna but at the same time she is emotionally exhausting to deal with and this is not what he signed up for, but the thought of leaving Lorna kills him inside and he has even fallen in love with her. Lorna's demons and her refusal to come out of her shell is driving him crazy and it may be just enough to drive him away. Malcolm has never been a quitter, he is a fighter and will fight for Lorna but the real question is, does Lorna want anyone to fight for her especially now that her secrets are starting to come out.
I knew Lorna's story was going to be amazing, I just wasn't prepared for how truly mind blowing it would be for me. Lorna Terry is a woman that many of us can relate to, we have fought wars that people don't even know about, we have the scars that people don't see. We have through the years created our own heavily armored battle gear, to slay the darkness that threatens to overwhelm us and although we believe we have lived to fight another day because we have won countless battles. The truth of the matter is, we are exhausted and tired and we long for that special man that was created just for us to come along to fight side by side with us. But because we have fought alone for so long, we have become accustomed to being alone and now that the man want to share our space, we find ourselves fighting against him, so the push and pull begins. I am hear to tell you that it is OK to drop your battle gear at your feet and all of your artillery and it is OK to allow that special man to love you. He will not only love you, he will fight beside you and slay your dragons for you.
Author Nia Forrester really hit this story out of the park, this book is a definite re-read and also recommended her story specifically the "Commitment Series" as a must have.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao Bellas!
Lorna is 46 years old now and finds herself restless and beginning to panic, she has accomplished more in her career than most people only dream of, she is at the top of her game, the Creme DE La Creme and yet she is unchallenged, exhausted and wondering if this is it and has she hit the glass ceiling?
Malcolm T. Mitchell a former attorney, turned number one selling author and now adding to his resume a professor at the esteemed Gilchrist College, he is sexy, smart and an amazing man. His personal life, finds him divorced and a father to two young girls but he is not angry, he feels free and excited to be pursuing his dreams. And at a faculty mixer and surrounded by women professor, in comes the infamous Dr. Lorna Terry, to the chagrin of the women vying for his attention and to his delight.
Lorna has done many things in her life and has always been quick to anticipate each one but nothing and no one could have prepared her for the Tsunami that is Malcolm. Lorna finds herself in a quandary where a part of her wants to flee and another part of her want to stay in his arms forever but what others don't know about Lorna (not even her own daughter) are the demons she has successfully kept at bay for so many years are now threatening to come spilling out of her heavily padded closet and the one person who has the key and want to unlock them all is Malcolm. But what Malcolm doesn't realize is, Lorna is not going down without a fight and will fight him till the last breath leaves her body.
Malcolm has never met a woman so vivacious, smart, funny and so heavily layered with battle armor. He can't get enough of Lorna but at the same time she is emotionally exhausting to deal with and this is not what he signed up for, but the thought of leaving Lorna kills him inside and he has even fallen in love with her. Lorna's demons and her refusal to come out of her shell is driving him crazy and it may be just enough to drive him away. Malcolm has never been a quitter, he is a fighter and will fight for Lorna but the real question is, does Lorna want anyone to fight for her especially now that her secrets are starting to come out.
I knew Lorna's story was going to be amazing, I just wasn't prepared for how truly mind blowing it would be for me. Lorna Terry is a woman that many of us can relate to, we have fought wars that people don't even know about, we have the scars that people don't see. We have through the years created our own heavily armored battle gear, to slay the darkness that threatens to overwhelm us and although we believe we have lived to fight another day because we have won countless battles. The truth of the matter is, we are exhausted and tired and we long for that special man that was created just for us to come along to fight side by side with us. But because we have fought alone for so long, we have become accustomed to being alone and now that the man want to share our space, we find ourselves fighting against him, so the push and pull begins. I am hear to tell you that it is OK to drop your battle gear at your feet and all of your artillery and it is OK to allow that special man to love you. He will not only love you, he will fight beside you and slay your dragons for you.
Author Nia Forrester really hit this story out of the park, this book is a definite re-read and also recommended her story specifically the "Commitment Series" as a must have.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao Bellas!
December 17, 2016
Nia Forrester is one of my favorite authors. I have read all of her books. I really enjoyed The Fall. It had so many layers to it. I love that Nia focuses on relationships and the ups and downs of them. The Fall is one of those stories that you read slowly and think about. I purposely took my time reading this story between other stories.
This story was good from the first page to the last. I love Riley and would love to read another story about her and Shawn. I'm probably the only one, but I absolutely loved Charlotte. She needs her own story!
Highly recommended to all Nia Forrester fans and readers who simply just want to read a good book with quiet drama and colorful characters. Wish I could give it more stars.
This story was good from the first page to the last. I love Riley and would love to read another story about her and Shawn. I'm probably the only one, but I absolutely loved Charlotte. She needs her own story!
Highly recommended to all Nia Forrester fans and readers who simply just want to read a good book with quiet drama and colorful characters. Wish I could give it more stars.
May 7, 2016
I've been trying to write this review for the past 5 days, but I'm struggling to find the words to say just how excellent this book is. And it is EXCELLENT!!!
After meeting Lorna in Commitment and really liking her, I was totally unprepared for my reaction to her in this book. I didn't like her. To be perfectly honest, I couldn't stand her. Lorna was a mess: rude, dismissive, arrogant, and all about Lorna. The smartest person wherever she was. She kept my nerves on edge. I kept screaming 'Get out of your head', whenever she was dealing with Malcom, and either 'Listen!' or 'Let them finish talking!' when she was interacting with Fallon or that nut job grad student. Prior to reading this book, I thought she was a force to be reckoned with, and this was true, but not in a good way.
I initially thought it was amazing that Riley turned out so well, because Lorna put very little effort into raising her, but it became clear that her father's genes kicked in, because he seemed to be a genuinely great guy. Shame on you, Lorna, for that whole f'd up situation. I don't want to give anything away, so I'll just say that I'm really glad that things were addressed and resolved, and in the most wonderful way.
Interestingly, Lorna's fall from grace career-wise, and her reaction to it, is what changed my opinion of her. I won't say that she deserved what happened, or needed to be humbled, but I think it took something drastic to get her attention, in order to help her get her mind and her focus right, so that she could begin to get clarity about her life, her career, and her choices. Fallon's(interesting name choice!) deceitfulness, which was discovered at the same time and was especially difficult, was probably what drove the point home.
But Lorna's fall for Malcolm, when she finally allowed it to happen, was just what she needed after denying herself love for so long. Malcolm T. Mitchell just may be my favorite out of all Nia's men. Loved how he could be demanding, hard, and rough, but gentle, patient and determined to get his woman. He had me swooning! That Charlotte, though, was a trip! I absolutely loved Malcolm's relationship with his girls, and that Lorna was able to easily establish a good relationship with them.She's going to learn a lot from them.
If you haven't read this book, I strongly encourage you to do so. It's a great read. Thanks, Nia Forrester, for sharing your gift with us!
After meeting Lorna in Commitment and really liking her, I was totally unprepared for my reaction to her in this book. I didn't like her. To be perfectly honest, I couldn't stand her. Lorna was a mess: rude, dismissive, arrogant, and all about Lorna. The smartest person wherever she was. She kept my nerves on edge. I kept screaming 'Get out of your head', whenever she was dealing with Malcom, and either 'Listen!' or 'Let them finish talking!' when she was interacting with Fallon or that nut job grad student. Prior to reading this book, I thought she was a force to be reckoned with, and this was true, but not in a good way.
I initially thought it was amazing that Riley turned out so well, because Lorna put very little effort into raising her, but it became clear that her father's genes kicked in, because he seemed to be a genuinely great guy. Shame on you, Lorna, for that whole f'd up situation. I don't want to give anything away, so I'll just say that I'm really glad that things were addressed and resolved, and in the most wonderful way.
Interestingly, Lorna's fall from grace career-wise, and her reaction to it, is what changed my opinion of her. I won't say that she deserved what happened, or needed to be humbled, but I think it took something drastic to get her attention, in order to help her get her mind and her focus right, so that she could begin to get clarity about her life, her career, and her choices. Fallon's(interesting name choice!) deceitfulness, which was discovered at the same time and was especially difficult, was probably what drove the point home.
But Lorna's fall for Malcolm, when she finally allowed it to happen, was just what she needed after denying herself love for so long. Malcolm T. Mitchell just may be my favorite out of all Nia's men. Loved how he could be demanding, hard, and rough, but gentle, patient and determined to get his woman. He had me swooning! That Charlotte, though, was a trip! I absolutely loved Malcolm's relationship with his girls, and that Lorna was able to easily establish a good relationship with them.She's going to learn a lot from them.
If you haven't read this book, I strongly encourage you to do so. It's a great read. Thanks, Nia Forrester, for sharing your gift with us!
June 30, 2022
5+ stars !
APB Perspective Review ! The book was much more than I expected !!
To be honest I never thought Lorna needed a story, I was happy with the moments she appeared in the other books within the Commitment Series. I thought she would possibly fade away within this book with an older man who could handle her, and in my mind she looked kind of like a young Whoopi Goldberg , who wears birkenstocks and jeans . Boy was I wrong! Lorna is a beautiful sexy women ,and why shouldn't she be , she is Riley's mother!? Lorna is so beautiful that she captures the eye Malcom, and in this book we read their journey . I did not like Lorna at first while reading this book , I especially did not like her for Malcom , I actually rolled my eyes at her a few times . Through Malcom's patience, we get to see a side of Lorna that I ended up understanding and rooting for by the end of this story . Lorna's story was deeper than I ever expected, and it took a man like Malcom to help her, show us who she really is and why. It's funny that the ultimate feminist met a man ,that helped her open up to more than she ever thought she would be. I have read every book Nia Forrestor has written and this book is one, that I can see her growth as an author . With every book she catches me by surprise with her unpredictable writing style. If you want something different read her work, and if you want to be surprised , read Lorna's story.
APB Perspective Review ! The book was much more than I expected !!
To be honest I never thought Lorna needed a story, I was happy with the moments she appeared in the other books within the Commitment Series. I thought she would possibly fade away within this book with an older man who could handle her, and in my mind she looked kind of like a young Whoopi Goldberg , who wears birkenstocks and jeans . Boy was I wrong! Lorna is a beautiful sexy women ,and why shouldn't she be , she is Riley's mother!? Lorna is so beautiful that she captures the eye Malcom, and in this book we read their journey . I did not like Lorna at first while reading this book , I especially did not like her for Malcom , I actually rolled my eyes at her a few times . Through Malcom's patience, we get to see a side of Lorna that I ended up understanding and rooting for by the end of this story . Lorna's story was deeper than I ever expected, and it took a man like Malcom to help her, show us who she really is and why. It's funny that the ultimate feminist met a man ,that helped her open up to more than she ever thought she would be. I have read every book Nia Forrestor has written and this book is one, that I can see her growth as an author . With every book she catches me by surprise with her unpredictable writing style. If you want something different read her work, and if you want to be surprised , read Lorna's story.
April 28, 2016
I'm speechless. This book was so beautifully written, so very well developed, that I literally did not want it to end. And Lorna - I absolutely loved her! She was such a fascinating character - the most complex heroine I've read in quite some time. She definitely put Malcolm through the wringer, but if anyone could handle Lorna, it was Malcolm T. Mitchell (LOVE that name, by the way!).
Ms. Forrester, please consider writing a follow up to this story, I'd love to read more about these characters!
Ms. Forrester, please consider writing a follow up to this story, I'd love to read more about these characters!
November 19, 2017
Lorna Terry...well...I hated her. I just wanted to slap her. She was so selfish and there were times that I wanted Malcolm to cut his losses and run like the wind. But...in true Nia Forrester fashion...she slowly peels away the layers to give the reader insight into the why the character's flaws are their flaws. Through Forrester's elegant storytelling, we are also able to witness the evolution of Lorna.
This book took me right back to Commitment and why Nia Forrester is one of my favorite authors.
This book took me right back to Commitment and why Nia Forrester is one of my favorite authors.
April 23, 2016
Going into this book I didn't know what to expect. I knew the heroine was the mother of a character that I loved so I wasn't sure if I'd be able to relate to her story, but boy was I wrong. Lorna and Malcolm had me hooked from the start. Their witty and playful banter had me smiling quite often. There was so much depth with both of their characters. I felt like I was reading about real people and oftentimes someone that I knew personally. I think this is some of Nia's best work.
May 19, 2016
Well, this book was..... exhausting. I don't mean that in a bad way. I meant, Lorna Terry was exhausting. Lorna gave me plenty of reasons not to like her, but I decided before I started reading that I already liked her because she was Riley's mom. As the story went along, I was second guessing my decision to like her. She was a handful to say the least. It took someone with great patience to understand her and love her as the person she was. That's where Malcolm T. Mitchell comes in to the rescue. Even then, I was beginning to lose hope that he could get the job done. After a while, I was actually hoping that Malcolm would move on from Lorna because even I was getting frustrated with her resisting and fighting him at every turn. For a while, things would be great and then out of no where, she would push him away. I did feel empathy for Lorna after learning more about her past. She had lived most of her life not feeling anything for the men she was "attached" in her past and she really didn't know how to deal with these unfamiliar feelings she started having for Malcolm. In true Nia Forrester fashion, she kept you waiting until the very end to know what was really going on.
Also, it was great to read about the relationship between Lorna and Riley. Their relationship was....unconventional. Not your usual mother/daughter kind of relationship. But I already knew that going in. Riley loves her mother and how close they are, but I think she needed more. And Lorna, I'm not sure she knew how to give her more. I think the guilt of what she had done has always been in the back of her mind and she always wanted Riley to "like" as a friend more than a mother. Once Lorna did the right thing and corrected her bad judgement, you can see their relationship be more of a mother/daughter relationship. Not that Riley ever came off as an unhappy person in the past, but I could tell that by the end, she was now her momma's baby girl and not her friend. Lorna said that Riley was her first true love and I for one, couldn't tell by her actions. I wasn't convinced. By the end though, I think I was most happy about her and Riley finally getting on the same page.
Thank you, Nia Forrester for always coming through and making me, as a reader, think about things in my own life that I can correct and make better decisions on the relationships I have with the people in my life. As always, this was a GREAT story!
Also, it was great to read about the relationship between Lorna and Riley. Their relationship was....unconventional. Not your usual mother/daughter kind of relationship. But I already knew that going in. Riley loves her mother and how close they are, but I think she needed more. And Lorna, I'm not sure she knew how to give her more. I think the guilt of what she had done has always been in the back of her mind and she always wanted Riley to "like" as a friend more than a mother. Once Lorna did the right thing and corrected her bad judgement, you can see their relationship be more of a mother/daughter relationship. Not that Riley ever came off as an unhappy person in the past, but I could tell that by the end, she was now her momma's baby girl and not her friend. Lorna said that Riley was her first true love and I for one, couldn't tell by her actions. I wasn't convinced. By the end though, I think I was most happy about her and Riley finally getting on the same page.
Thank you, Nia Forrester for always coming through and making me, as a reader, think about things in my own life that I can correct and make better decisions on the relationships I have with the people in my life. As always, this was a GREAT story!
April 28, 2016
This book was.... Different. But in a totally unexpectedly good way. Instead of being like a Girl's trip to Miami with nonstop fun, it was more like a trip to a lake house- getting to sleep in the most comfortable bed at night and spending your days relaxing in the best rocking chair enjoying the sounds and sight of nature!
Whereas, Riley and Shawn's relationship was like that Miami trip; Lorna and Malcolm's story was the lake house.
We've seen and heard a lot from Lorna over the course of the Commitment Series exerting herself and her thoughts into her daughter's and son in laws relationship, so I was pleasantly surprised that the feminist theorists is actually just a woman with womanly needs and insecurities. And what she didn't want is someone like Malcolm to not only discover her insecurities, but to call her out on them and make her confront them. She's so used to scaring men away with her strong personality, but this one wouldn't budge!
And who wouldn't or couldn't love a man named, Malcolm T. Mitchell? He was as strong, manly and protective as his name appears to be. What he wanted from Lorna seemed simple enough - Monogamy, Communication, Co-Habitation, Partnership and Friendship.
But to Lorna, that sounded like a reason to run, because after all "it's what she knows how to do"
Malcolm gave Lorna a reason to heal and Lorna gave Malcolm the power to fight; and they were so great together! What I loved the most is Riley finally expressing herself to her Mom and not going easy on her. Lorna not only needed that, but she deserved it!
I loved this story!
Whereas, Riley and Shawn's relationship was like that Miami trip; Lorna and Malcolm's story was the lake house.
We've seen and heard a lot from Lorna over the course of the Commitment Series exerting herself and her thoughts into her daughter's and son in laws relationship, so I was pleasantly surprised that the feminist theorists is actually just a woman with womanly needs and insecurities. And what she didn't want is someone like Malcolm to not only discover her insecurities, but to call her out on them and make her confront them. She's so used to scaring men away with her strong personality, but this one wouldn't budge!
And who wouldn't or couldn't love a man named, Malcolm T. Mitchell? He was as strong, manly and protective as his name appears to be. What he wanted from Lorna seemed simple enough - Monogamy, Communication, Co-Habitation, Partnership and Friendship.
But to Lorna, that sounded like a reason to run, because after all "it's what she knows how to do"
Malcolm gave Lorna a reason to heal and Lorna gave Malcolm the power to fight; and they were so great together! What I loved the most is Riley finally expressing herself to her Mom and not going easy on her. Lorna not only needed that, but she deserved it!
I loved this story!
June 26, 2016
****** 4.5 Stars ******
March 25, 2022
This was good. I pegged it from about 30% of the way through that her assistant was going to do what she did and that Rogers lady was a whole bitch.
Lorna was...a piece of work. Although I'm happy with the ending, I would be lying if I didn't want Malcolm to leave her and find someone else (NOT Charlotte or Rogers, though).
Lorna was...a piece of work. Although I'm happy with the ending, I would be lying if I didn't want Malcolm to leave her and find someone else (NOT Charlotte or Rogers, though).
May 20, 2016
In the New Age of older women discovering how complex they are, "The Fall" is a great read. Lorna Terry is a Professor at an upscale college in New England. Her daughter Riley is an established writer who is married to Big Shawn, a rapper. We have met all three of these characters in Ms Forrester's "Commitment" series, however this Lorna (Riley's mom) story of life, love and adventure.
Lorna is use to doing her own thing as she listens to her own drum. However, Malcom T Mitchell turns her world upside down. This story follows their relationship over a year. He is an author and newly named Professor at her school. He is newly out of a divorce but knows a good thing when he has found it. Their relationship is hot between the sheets but on shaky grown at times in the streets Lorna has a past and a present that nearly destroy her. She has to peel back a few layers before she is able to show Malcom her onion core. Malcom has to figure out if he can withstand the storm aka Lorna.
A great read with complex characters who have needs that nearly overwhelm them. I am thankful Malcom is all man and Lorna finds out her needs can be met if only she learns to share...Thank Ms. Forrester..a fabulous story of many women when they find out their "more than".
Lorna is use to doing her own thing as she listens to her own drum. However, Malcom T Mitchell turns her world upside down. This story follows their relationship over a year. He is an author and newly named Professor at her school. He is newly out of a divorce but knows a good thing when he has found it. Their relationship is hot between the sheets but on shaky grown at times in the streets Lorna has a past and a present that nearly destroy her. She has to peel back a few layers before she is able to show Malcom her onion core. Malcom has to figure out if he can withstand the storm aka Lorna.
A great read with complex characters who have needs that nearly overwhelm them. I am thankful Malcom is all man and Lorna finds out her needs can be met if only she learns to share...Thank Ms. Forrester..a fabulous story of many women when they find out their "more than".
April 22, 2016
An amazing book from start to finish. Ms. Forrester is an author that explicitly gets better with each book. I waited on Lorna's story, Riley's beautifully complex mother from Ms. Forrester's Commitment series. A feminist's feminist, Lorna is quintessentially a force to be recon with! She practices what she preach, both in love and in relationships. But much to Lorna's chagrin, she's meets her match in a one Mr. Malcolm T. Hill, a "younger" author extraordinaire who's recently been hired at her university. Throw in Lorna’s unconventional complicated relationship with her daughter Riley, and an unforeseen threat professionally, point blank, Lorna’s world is getting re-worked.
I absolutely loved this book, everything about it was wonderful and fresh. The writing, the main characters, the supporting characters, the setting, the conflict, and of course the resolution were all superbly done. I can’t express enough on how great this book was, and how it was a joy in sharing in the lives of these characters.
Ms. Forrester is as a wonderful storyteller, enough said!
I absolutely loved this book, everything about it was wonderful and fresh. The writing, the main characters, the supporting characters, the setting, the conflict, and of course the resolution were all superbly done. I can’t express enough on how great this book was, and how it was a joy in sharing in the lives of these characters.
Ms. Forrester is as a wonderful storyteller, enough said!
May 7, 2016
Such Smart Work
Nia Forrester is that chick you look forward to reading for months. She's that writer whose blog you KEEP stalking patiently, but stealthily for new developments. She writes the kind of works that one purchases and lets sit for a minute, knowing that once it's cracked open, all else will cease to exist or even be considered for a while.
I lovvvved this book. I just can't believe how engaging and captivating these characters were. Their struggles were so damn tangible, stimulating, real. There was very little sap in the exchanges. Yet, I still managed to be moved to tears at several points in the storyline.
Lorna is a woman I'm proud to get to know and find in the pages of this oftentimes disappointing genre. Her character has depth, convictions, revelations that evolved with fluidity uncommon in a read this length.
Malcolm is a wet dream with the physical features and emotional maturity of any 40+ woman's fairy tales.
This one was definitely worth the wait. One of her best works to date. I'm such a fan.
Nia Forrester is that chick you look forward to reading for months. She's that writer whose blog you KEEP stalking patiently, but stealthily for new developments. She writes the kind of works that one purchases and lets sit for a minute, knowing that once it's cracked open, all else will cease to exist or even be considered for a while.
I lovvvved this book. I just can't believe how engaging and captivating these characters were. Their struggles were so damn tangible, stimulating, real. There was very little sap in the exchanges. Yet, I still managed to be moved to tears at several points in the storyline.
Lorna is a woman I'm proud to get to know and find in the pages of this oftentimes disappointing genre. Her character has depth, convictions, revelations that evolved with fluidity uncommon in a read this length.
Malcolm is a wet dream with the physical features and emotional maturity of any 40+ woman's fairy tales.
This one was definitely worth the wait. One of her best works to date. I'm such a fan.
April 23, 2016
Wow, I'd been excited and fiending to read "The Fall" in its entirety after reading sneak peeks and excerpts over the past few weeks, so finally having the opportunity this weekend to do just that has been very gratifying. Nia Forrester once again shares her Impeccable talent as a writer with readers in this Amazingly Intriguing book. Lorna and Malcolm's story had me feeling like I was experiencing each adventure with them. I definitely enjoyed being able to reconnect with Riley and Shawn as well. My reviews are normally simple to avoid sharing spoilers and ruining the read for future and current readers. After all, my main purpose for writing reviews is to acknowledge my enjoyment or issues with a particular book, and not to give a brief summary of the story. So, I'll end my review by encouraging anyone who hasn't read this book or any of the books from Nia Forrester, to sleep on this absolutely gifted and talented writer no longer.
October 27, 2017
Lorna, Lorna, Lorna
So I've waited patiently for this book and as always I was not disappointed. I mean seriously who wouldn't want to know Lorna Terry, the talented, feisty feminist who most people loved to hate. On the surface, she's straight forward, strong will and shows little to no emotion however as reality began to set she realized one thing.... She was lonely and unhappy with life as it is. Well in walks Malcolm T Mitchell a strong confident younger man who falls for Lorna but her insecurities kept getting in the way which caused her to run from the "thing" there were becoming. The more she pushed him away and put up walls the more he pushed back forcefully chipping them away. Lorna is faced to deal with issues from her past and the way she handles them could finally push Malcolm away. Will she overcome her issues? Will Malcolm stay regardless of the things he discover? You'll have to read The Fall and see. Check it out you won't be disappointed.
So I've waited patiently for this book and as always I was not disappointed. I mean seriously who wouldn't want to know Lorna Terry, the talented, feisty feminist who most people loved to hate. On the surface, she's straight forward, strong will and shows little to no emotion however as reality began to set she realized one thing.... She was lonely and unhappy with life as it is. Well in walks Malcolm T Mitchell a strong confident younger man who falls for Lorna but her insecurities kept getting in the way which caused her to run from the "thing" there were becoming. The more she pushed him away and put up walls the more he pushed back forcefully chipping them away. Lorna is faced to deal with issues from her past and the way she handles them could finally push Malcolm away. Will she overcome her issues? Will Malcolm stay regardless of the things he discover? You'll have to read The Fall and see. Check it out you won't be disappointed.
May 29, 2016
Made Me Fall
I ha e followed this series. I even wrote Nia about wanting to know more about Lorna. She said she was working on a book about her and boy was she. I love these true to life characters. The conversations are so real I feel like I know these people. Finishing this book is traumatic because I want to visit with them everyday.
This one should've made into a movie. As a matter of fact I'm casting it right now. Enjoy
I ha e followed this series. I even wrote Nia about wanting to know more about Lorna. She said she was working on a book about her and boy was she. I love these true to life characters. The conversations are so real I feel like I know these people. Finishing this book is traumatic because I want to visit with them everyday.
This one should've made into a movie. As a matter of fact I'm casting it right now. Enjoy
October 17, 2016
Good read
Okay so this book was a slow start for me. I had to force myself to continue and I'm glad I did. Lorna & Malcolm had such a powerful chemistry. With their back and forth sparks are flying. All through the book you grow with them and that's a rare thing with a lot books now a days. Most books it seem you blink and that's it. Not this book Ms. Forrester development of the characters was wonderful!!! I will most definitely read more from her. Thank you!!!!
Okay so this book was a slow start for me. I had to force myself to continue and I'm glad I did. Lorna & Malcolm had such a powerful chemistry. With their back and forth sparks are flying. All through the book you grow with them and that's a rare thing with a lot books now a days. Most books it seem you blink and that's it. Not this book Ms. Forrester development of the characters was wonderful!!! I will most definitely read more from her. Thank you!!!!
March 3, 2019
I am a Nia's fan
Just when I thought there is no way I could fall in love with another couple, Nia delivers again. To watch how Malcolm loves on Lorna is a beautiful sight to behold. Definitely not a fairy tale but a story of how perseverance, patience, and love can win the hearts of the most hardened individual. Malcolm and Lorna are added to my favorite couple's list that includes Jamal and Makayla as well as Chris and Robyn. Thanks Nia for this amazing story!
Just when I thought there is no way I could fall in love with another couple, Nia delivers again. To watch how Malcolm loves on Lorna is a beautiful sight to behold. Definitely not a fairy tale but a story of how perseverance, patience, and love can win the hearts of the most hardened individual. Malcolm and Lorna are added to my favorite couple's list that includes Jamal and Makayla as well as Chris and Robyn. Thanks Nia for this amazing story!
April 26, 2016
My heart is bursting!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Malcolm is the type of man any woman would want!!! I'm happy Lorna realized what she had before it was to late. Nia continues to write such real characters. This book made me miss Riley and Shawn so much that I am now going back to read Commitment. Thank you for sharing Lorna and Malcolm's story!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Malcolm is the type of man any woman would want!!! I'm happy Lorna realized what she had before it was to late. Nia continues to write such real characters. This book made me miss Riley and Shawn so much that I am now going back to read Commitment. Thank you for sharing Lorna and Malcolm's story!
May 12, 2016
Gosh absolutely wonderful!!! I love Riley and Shawn's love story from "Commitment" so much that I wasn't sure I would enjoy reading about Riley's mother, Lorna. But I was absolutely captured by this book. Love love love Nia Forrester's work!!
April 28, 2016
Lo...
The elusive, illustrious, incredibly flawed Lorna Terry, Has met her match in Malcolm T. Mitchell. I could relate, far more than I'm comfortable acknowledging, with Lo. I enjoyed this book. Very well written as always. Definitely grown woman ish!
The elusive, illustrious, incredibly flawed Lorna Terry, Has met her match in Malcolm T. Mitchell. I could relate, far more than I'm comfortable acknowledging, with Lo. I enjoyed this book. Very well written as always. Definitely grown woman ish!
June 27, 2016
Loved it!! The " Commitment Series" is one of my all time favorites. Nia did her thang with this book.
I feel in love with Lorna in the first book. I couldn't see a man handling her but Malcolm T. Mitchell
certainly did. This book was well written and hard to put down. Great job Nia!
I feel in love with Lorna in the first book. I couldn't see a man handling her but Malcolm T. Mitchell
certainly did. This book was well written and hard to put down. Great job Nia!
May 29, 2017
I learn something new with every book
I'm an educator at a college; I love teaching because I learn and gain insight when I teach. I have the same experience when I read a novel by Nia Forrester.
I'm an educator at a college; I love teaching because I learn and gain insight when I teach. I have the same experience when I read a novel by Nia Forrester.
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