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Forde Family #2
Fortress
The Forde family is a fortress, impenetrable and powerful... Marcus Forde, Jr., is the heir apparent and CFO of his father’s multi-million dollar wealth management firm. He’s wealthy, strong-willed, lives in his father’s image, and gives him unyielding loyalty. For as long as he could remember, he’s modeled himself after this one man, to a fault. Until it all crumbles... Unfortunately, the faults of his father become a scandal that threatens to ruin the family name, which makes them call on Charlisse Lageaux, a no nonsense crisis management expert that can make all of this mess go away. Her first order of business is to protect what is left of the Forde’s diminished empire. To Charlisse, all of these wealthy men are the same, but while working with Marcus to clean up this mess, she notices that there’s more to the reckless, rude, and heavily guarded finance magnate than meets the eye.
413 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 16, 2019
110 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Nikki Blaire
6 books30 followersnikki blaire is a regular Black girl intent on telling it like it is and that includes Black romance. Now based in the DMV, but a Southern girl at heart, nikki blaire began writing fanfiction stories at 14. Ten years later, she has finally come full circle as a published author. She is a public policy professional by day, but spends her nights dreaming up love stories that are real, and focused on showing the many facets of Black love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 20, 2019
I was in love with this couple. I loved their relationship, interactions, and the way they connected. I loved this power couple. Marcus Sr. can kiss my Butt!!!! Overall, I loved this story
November 19, 2019
Worth the wait!
I knew when we met grumpy Marc Ford that he had a story to tell and he was so worth the wait. A little political intrigue, a lot of romance. So.... Who got next?!?
I knew when we met grumpy Marc Ford that he had a story to tell and he was so worth the wait. A little political intrigue, a lot of romance. So.... Who got next?!?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2020
Maybe book 3 will be better...?
So I really wanted to like this book. I feel like the idea of Marcus in Book 1 and the person we got in Book 2 are not the same. I didn’t see the cold, calculated person. I saw a guy who basically fell in love in the first chapter and chased the girl until he got her. I just expected...more of the cutthroat brother from Book 1. I also still did not like Ayda. The way she’s written, she just sounds selfish, like everything is about her. She seems to have an attitude every time she’s written into the book. And it was never really explained why there was a serious disconnect between her and her father. So I gave it 2 stars because there was no growth from Ayda...until the end and even with that she couldn’t hold in the information that she had no business spreading. I also gave it 2 stars because Marc wasn’t the same character that was introduced in Book 1. I will read the third book, just to finish the series, but my expectations are low. I’m not sure what the other readers read that caused them to give this book a high rating, but for me, it just wasn’t there.
So I really wanted to like this book. I feel like the idea of Marcus in Book 1 and the person we got in Book 2 are not the same. I didn’t see the cold, calculated person. I saw a guy who basically fell in love in the first chapter and chased the girl until he got her. I just expected...more of the cutthroat brother from Book 1. I also still did not like Ayda. The way she’s written, she just sounds selfish, like everything is about her. She seems to have an attitude every time she’s written into the book. And it was never really explained why there was a serious disconnect between her and her father. So I gave it 2 stars because there was no growth from Ayda...until the end and even with that she couldn’t hold in the information that she had no business spreading. I also gave it 2 stars because Marc wasn’t the same character that was introduced in Book 1. I will read the third book, just to finish the series, but my expectations are low. I’m not sure what the other readers read that caused them to give this book a high rating, but for me, it just wasn’t there.
November 18, 2019
What can I say...Marc & Charlisse's journey was absolutely worth the wait. I liked how the author explained why it took so long for the second novel in this series to come out. I'm so glad she took her time with this one. Marc was a workaholic and idolized his father. Charlisse had reservations about wealthy men and pain from a failed engagement. Plus Charlisse's profession played a huge part in why she kept a low profile with who she dated. I liked how their relationship blossomed from their first meeting at the wedding reception to their wedding day. I also like how Marc came around and built a genuine friendship with Tremaine. I'm glad he gave him a chance. I also liked that Charlisse was a vegetarian! All around this story was really good. Of course the signs were there and I figured out that Charlisse was pregnant the first time she couldn't keep anything down. I just loved how Marc found his unicorn. I really like this series and I'm looking forward to the next installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2021
I really liked it.
Crisis manager Charlisse meets Marcus at their mutual “acquaintances” wedding and sparks instantly fly. After one steamy night together she’s called in to help his family’s firm after a shocking scandal about his father. From there the two try to fight their feelings but eventually realize they can’t and embark on a journey of new love while also throwing in some self discovery.
I really liked this book, both the h and H had their flaws and times where you just wanted to shake them, but you’re still rooting for them. I just loved the ending and epilogue, it was sooo cute!
I was holding my breath the entire book because I just knew Vanessa and Brandon were going to cause more trouble than they did. I was happy they didn’t because I just wanted to see this couple win.
This is my first read from this author but I’ll be checking out more of her work. Check it out!
Crisis manager Charlisse meets Marcus at their mutual “acquaintances” wedding and sparks instantly fly. After one steamy night together she’s called in to help his family’s firm after a shocking scandal about his father. From there the two try to fight their feelings but eventually realize they can’t and embark on a journey of new love while also throwing in some self discovery.
I really liked this book, both the h and H had their flaws and times where you just wanted to shake them, but you’re still rooting for them. I just loved the ending and epilogue, it was sooo cute!
I was holding my breath the entire book because I just knew Vanessa and Brandon were going to cause more trouble than they did. I was happy they didn’t because I just wanted to see this couple win.
This is my first read from this author but I’ll be checking out more of her work. Check it out!
December 20, 2019
Forde family
Very enjoyable story. Marc ( he lets it be known that Marcus is his father) is truly an alpha male who has been guarding the Forde family fortress. The fortress has taken a hit and is in danger of crumbling. Marc meets Charlisse at the wedding of the female he's just been with a few days before, who just so happens to be marrying the man that happens to have a special relationship with Charlisse. Needless to say, neither the bride nor the groom are happy about Marcus and Charlisse getting together. There are moments of fan yourself heat, eyebrow raising, and laughing out loud. This book can be read as a stand alone but you'll understand a few things better if you read the series in order.
Very enjoyable story. Marc ( he lets it be known that Marcus is his father) is truly an alpha male who has been guarding the Forde family fortress. The fortress has taken a hit and is in danger of crumbling. Marc meets Charlisse at the wedding of the female he's just been with a few days before, who just so happens to be marrying the man that happens to have a special relationship with Charlisse. Needless to say, neither the bride nor the groom are happy about Marcus and Charlisse getting together. There are moments of fan yourself heat, eyebrow raising, and laughing out loud. This book can be read as a stand alone but you'll understand a few things better if you read the series in order.
April 10, 2021
Wow
I really could not put this book down I started reading it this morning at 10:00 am it is now 1:46 am. ( had to take a break to eat and handle a couple of things ) Marcus Forde Jr. a high powered sexy, arrogant hard nose bachelor who felt like he ruled Washington DC He meets the beautiful alluring Charlisse Lageaux ( a DC high powered fixer) at a wedding. They have a one night stand swearing each other to secrecy because of their powerful positions. Little did Marcus know that this women would be the person to save not lord his family business but his heart as well.
This review is simplistic because I don’t want to spoil the experience for future readers The book had me saying WOW
can’t wait to start the third book in this series on tomorrow☺️
I really could not put this book down I started reading it this morning at 10:00 am it is now 1:46 am. ( had to take a break to eat and handle a couple of things ) Marcus Forde Jr. a high powered sexy, arrogant hard nose bachelor who felt like he ruled Washington DC He meets the beautiful alluring Charlisse Lageaux ( a DC high powered fixer) at a wedding. They have a one night stand swearing each other to secrecy because of their powerful positions. Little did Marcus know that this women would be the person to save not lord his family business but his heart as well.
This review is simplistic because I don’t want to spoil the experience for future readers The book had me saying WOW
can’t wait to start the third book in this series on tomorrow☺️
May 27, 2020
Fortress (Forde Family Series Book 2)
Loved, loved, 💘 this book as well as the first one if the Forde Family series. Such characters in the family. Mom & daughter Ayda are drama queens. Dad Marcus Sr. is arrogant, rich, powerful, and simply cunning. And the big brother Marcus Jr. is a stable force to be reckoned with. Until...he meets Charlisse and finally falls down that rabbit hole hard at 36 years old. What an adventure.
I am going to read about Tremaine Henley's li'l brother Quentin's relationship in Forward Pass (Forde 👪 Series Book 3) right now!
Loved, loved, 💘 this book as well as the first one if the Forde Family series. Such characters in the family. Mom & daughter Ayda are drama queens. Dad Marcus Sr. is arrogant, rich, powerful, and simply cunning. And the big brother Marcus Jr. is a stable force to be reckoned with. Until...he meets Charlisse and finally falls down that rabbit hole hard at 36 years old. What an adventure.
I am going to read about Tremaine Henley's li'l brother Quentin's relationship in Forward Pass (Forde 👪 Series Book 3) right now!
April 23, 2021
When the walls come tumbling down
Wow I really enjoyed this book!
Marc Jr was a very driven and focused man who idolizes his father and puts family and
their legacy above all else.
Charlisse was an accomplished and successful woman in her own career and placed extreme care in cultivating her brand, relationships and reputation.
What happens when the attraction trumps logic?
How do you handle life blowing up in your face and endangering all that you hold dear and work for?
These two try to navigate through drama, financial ruin, and a media nightmare. Worth the read!
Wow I really enjoyed this book!
Marc Jr was a very driven and focused man who idolizes his father and puts family and
their legacy above all else.
Charlisse was an accomplished and successful woman in her own career and placed extreme care in cultivating her brand, relationships and reputation.
What happens when the attraction trumps logic?
How do you handle life blowing up in your face and endangering all that you hold dear and work for?
These two try to navigate through drama, financial ruin, and a media nightmare. Worth the read!
December 26, 2019
Family drama!
Good story. Marc and Charlisse two people who looked like they had it all based on outward appearance but had to overcome so many insecurities and expectations from others to find true love. This is the 2nd book in the Forde family. It was nice to see family and friends from book 1 and gets updated on them. Excited for the 3rd book in the series can't wait to get to know younger Forde brother Dwele.
Good story. Marc and Charlisse two people who looked like they had it all based on outward appearance but had to overcome so many insecurities and expectations from others to find true love. This is the 2nd book in the Forde family. It was nice to see family and friends from book 1 and gets updated on them. Excited for the 3rd book in the series can't wait to get to know younger Forde brother Dwele.
February 16, 2020
When a man truly loves a woman!!
The story line was captivating/ kept you enthralled all the way through. Black love honored throughout. MARC provided a recipe for Black to follow to honor their queens. Respect and appreciation for the one that is ordained for you. Can’t wait to read Dwele’s story - Marc’s brother. And to find out what happens to his father and mother and the wedding of the sister.
The story line was captivating/ kept you enthralled all the way through. Black love honored throughout. MARC provided a recipe for Black to follow to honor their queens. Respect and appreciation for the one that is ordained for you. Can’t wait to read Dwele’s story - Marc’s brother. And to find out what happens to his father and mother and the wedding of the sister.
May 3, 2020
Forde tough
I loved everything about this book! The author brought two complex characters who is career driven and has no thoughts of settling down with anyone at the moment. A chance meeting at a wedding, and the rest is history. The plot, storyline and character development was on point. The story flowed effortlessly and made this read a breath of fresh air. Marcus...Marcus was EVERYTHING!!
I loved everything about this book! The author brought two complex characters who is career driven and has no thoughts of settling down with anyone at the moment. A chance meeting at a wedding, and the rest is history. The plot, storyline and character development was on point. The story flowed effortlessly and made this read a breath of fresh air. Marcus...Marcus was EVERYTHING!!
June 15, 2020
Marcus & Charlisse ❤ This Series
Fortress is Book 2 of the Forde Family Series. This is Marcus and Charlisse's Tale and it's beautiful, intense, sad and amazing. These two are a true match. They are so protective of one another even when they first met. I love how the family members pulled together to support each other. Marcus, Tremaine's relationship is so cool. Will Dwele have a story? Who ever next I'm ready for it! nikki Blair ty🙋🏾♀️❤👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Fortress is Book 2 of the Forde Family Series. This is Marcus and Charlisse's Tale and it's beautiful, intense, sad and amazing. These two are a true match. They are so protective of one another even when they first met. I love how the family members pulled together to support each other. Marcus, Tremaine's relationship is so cool. Will Dwele have a story? Who ever next I'm ready for it! nikki Blair ty🙋🏾♀️❤👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
December 7, 2019
Marc found love 💞💞💞
I enjoyed Marc and Charlisse story. I knew that Marc would find love and always hoped it would be someone that was the total opposite of him. Charlisse was accomplished in her own right. Their story unfolded very gratefully and I enjoy the twists and turns in the book. I can't wait for Dwele Forde Book come out.
I enjoyed Marc and Charlisse story. I knew that Marc would find love and always hoped it would be someone that was the total opposite of him. Charlisse was accomplished in her own right. Their story unfolded very gratefully and I enjoy the twists and turns in the book. I can't wait for Dwele Forde Book come out.
December 10, 2019
Well worth the wait
Really good read.. This is my 2nd reading!! The book moved at an easy pace and although we are dealing with D.C. wealth the characters are relatable.. Can't wait for Dwele's story.. I low-key want to see him with Renee and what's really going on with Brandon & Vanessa?
Really good read.. This is my 2nd reading!! The book moved at an easy pace and although we are dealing with D.C. wealth the characters are relatable.. Can't wait for Dwele's story.. I low-key want to see him with Renee and what's really going on with Brandon & Vanessa?
February 17, 2020
Well Done
I truly enjoyed both Ayda and Marcus story. Baby brother is next. This was a good read with romance and excitement. Also, another good story would be Claudette and Marcus Sr. Will they get back together, rebuild the love and will Marcus Sr. learn to love and what loving his family truly mean. So much more can be written. Thanks. Hated for it to end.
I truly enjoyed both Ayda and Marcus story. Baby brother is next. This was a good read with romance and excitement. Also, another good story would be Claudette and Marcus Sr. Will they get back together, rebuild the love and will Marcus Sr. learn to love and what loving his family truly mean. So much more can be written. Thanks. Hated for it to end.
November 22, 2019
Great story
The book was really good, I just wish it hadn’t taken 2 years to be released after the first book in the series. I hardly remembered anything about it. Hopefully Dwele’s story is coming sooner
The book was really good, I just wish it hadn’t taken 2 years to be released after the first book in the series. I hardly remembered anything about it. Hopefully Dwele’s story is coming sooner
December 6, 2019
Good read
Liked Fortress, although it was not a juicy as book 1 and I struggled a bit liking Marc as he was a jerk in book 1 and the beginning of this book. Hopefully Dwele and Quentin are next, or Ayda’s crazy friend Karen.
Liked Fortress, although it was not a juicy as book 1 and I struggled a bit liking Marc as he was a jerk in book 1 and the beginning of this book. Hopefully Dwele and Quentin are next, or Ayda’s crazy friend Karen.
December 8, 2019
Oh my word
Book 1 was amazing and book 2 picks right up. It soooo good. It has everything to rate 5 stars, I would give it more if I could. Definitely an enjoyable read. Can’t wait for book 3
Book 1 was amazing and book 2 picks right up. It soooo good. It has everything to rate 5 stars, I would give it more if I could. Definitely an enjoyable read. Can’t wait for book 3
December 18, 2019
Great book!
Okay, Charlisse was an overkill with all of her over thinking. However, I thoroughly enjoyed Marc’s character. I hope Dwele and Renee will have their chance at their own story along with a marriage and baby for Ayda and Tremaine.
Okay, Charlisse was an overkill with all of her over thinking. However, I thoroughly enjoyed Marc’s character. I hope Dwele and Renee will have their chance at their own story along with a marriage and baby for Ayda and Tremaine.
January 8, 2020
Fantastic Book
I enjoyed reading this book so much! I enjoyed Charlisse and Marcus journey to love! I enjoyed the storyline and the chemistry between them both! Such a fantastic book!
I enjoyed reading this book so much! I enjoyed Charlisse and Marcus journey to love! I enjoyed the storyline and the chemistry between them both! Such a fantastic book!
January 13, 2020
OMG
The craziness with the family scandal made for an very interesting story line since Marc was trying to be like his father and realized that his father was not perfect. I am glad that he finally decided to figure out what works best for him and his relationship
The craziness with the family scandal made for an very interesting story line since Marc was trying to be like his father and realized that his father was not perfect. I am glad that he finally decided to figure out what works best for him and his relationship
January 21, 2020
Well worth the wait
I loved Adya and Tre and was so sad that there was a hiatus until the next installment. I am so thrilled it came out and was well worth the wait. Beautifully written story!
I loved Adya and Tre and was so sad that there was a hiatus until the next installment. I am so thrilled it came out and was well worth the wait. Beautifully written story!
February 9, 2020
So so GOOD!!!
I thought I wouldn’t enjoy this book because let’s face it, Marc was a jerk! They way they author built the characters added such depth and drew me in. I laughed at Terry and his antics and can’t wait to read more from this author. Well done ma’am 😬
I thought I wouldn’t enjoy this book because let’s face it, Marc was a jerk! They way they author built the characters added such depth and drew me in. I laughed at Terry and his antics and can’t wait to read more from this author. Well done ma’am 😬
February 20, 2020
Absolutely Loved It!
I couldn't stand Marc and his pompous attitude in the first book but he redeemed himself in this book. I loved this book from page 1. One of my favorite book series
I couldn't stand Marc and his pompous attitude in the first book but he redeemed himself in this book. I loved this book from page 1. One of my favorite book series
May 30, 2020
Marcus Forde stuffy business man?
Marcus Forde stuffy business man? I think not.
In the first book we were misled Marcus turned out to be a suprise in all the right ways. It just took the right woman.
Marcus Forde stuffy business man? I think not.
In the first book we were misled Marcus turned out to be a suprise in all the right ways. It just took the right woman.
December 9, 2020
Loved it!
I loved everything about this book. I wished Ayda and tre would’ve gotten married too but maybe part 3. It sucks that sr had to fall from grace that bad and lose a 45 year marriage but oh well
I loved everything about this book. I wished Ayda and tre would’ve gotten married too but maybe part 3. It sucks that sr had to fall from grace that bad and lose a 45 year marriage but oh well
June 25, 2021
Loved Marcus
Marcus is the only one who actually grew in this book. Charlisse sorry sis you were annoying! All of the back and forth and not being transparent. You were the problem sis.
Other than that loving the series!
Marcus is the only one who actually grew in this book. Charlisse sorry sis you were annoying! All of the back and forth and not being transparent. You were the problem sis.
Other than that loving the series!
November 20, 2019
Awesome Follow-Up
Very well written. Kept my attention from begin to end. Would definitely recommend. Ms. Blaire is fast becoming one of my favorite authors.
Very well written. Kept my attention from begin to end. Would definitely recommend. Ms. Blaire is fast becoming one of my favorite authors.
November 21, 2019
Super cute
Best ending!! So sweet and romantic. Loved that it was a longer read.just a good weekend read. Looking forward to more.
Best ending!! So sweet and romantic. Loved that it was a longer read.just a good weekend read. Looking forward to more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews