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Courtship: A 'Snowflake' Novel
Ibrahim Carter needs to chart a new course for his life. Having returned home after almost a decade in prison, he is no longer father to a young son nor husband to a deferential wife. Now, his son is a father himself, and his wife, Jada, is a woman changed by her newfound independence.
Struggling to figure out his future, his marriage, and most especially his very identity, Ibrahim finds that to move forward, he must look back …
Over the course of one weekend, he and Jada revisit the first heady days of their young and often immature romance, remembering the courtship that ripened into love, and trying to decide whether the bond they once shared can be revived or is gone for good.
Struggling to figure out his future, his marriage, and most especially his very identity, Ibrahim finds that to move forward, he must look back …
Over the course of one weekend, he and Jada revisit the first heady days of their young and often immature romance, remembering the courtship that ripened into love, and trying to decide whether the bond they once shared can be revived or is gone for good.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2019
265 people are currently reading
139 people want to read
About the author
Nia Forrester
67 books951 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 83 reviews
December 18, 2019
I think the most obvious question about ‘Courtship’ is how could anyone walk away from this book not falling a little in love with Ibrahim? Interestingly enough, I wanted to know him but I didn’t fall for him immediately. Not until about halfway through the story, at almost the same time I think Jada truly did too, when he did something compassionate and then went out of his way to deny the benevolent nature of what he’d done. It was a contradiction. But it was also then I realized that in Ibrahim, Ms. Forrester hadn’t just written someone who was an unusual aberration in a troubled world. No, Ibrahim was an even rarer bird than that: a most precious and exceptional man.
However, this was a moving and poignant story from beginning to end, both now and then, not only because of the uniqueness of Ibrahim I think, but in spite of it. Who helped with that? Nasim, Raj, Manny, Zac, Karla, Kaleem, Asha, and of course, Kwame and Breonna among others; in fact, almost every single character in this book moved me or helped me see the depth of the story. In almost the same way they all disrupted, changed, or ultimately helped elevate Ibrahim. He may have been the ubiquitous hero and focal point of the book, but it was all the people around him that told me who he was. That told him, who he was. And no one did this better or with more heart and stubbornness than Jada. From the beginning I loved this girl for never quite being blind or self-deceptive enough to act like she wasn't fully aware of what was going on right in front of her nose. The fact that those characteristics didn’t change much in her as she aged was a stunning relief, especially when contrasted with the continuance of Ibrahim’s preternatural strength of will and quiet, contemplative insights.
I loved this book. A lot more I think than I loved either of its main characters, which is saying a whole hell of a lot given how much I was feeling them both. But the expressiveness of a novel like this is in the little moments: a pastor’s smile, the awkwardness of a father who can barely talk with his own son, a high school girl aggressively pretending not to know she’s being used by a cute boy, the easily adaptive nature of an old woman and young man not sharing blood but still choosing to be family, a wealthy intelligent man with cheerful complacency acknowledging the fact he’s lost something truly important, or the dark dank morgue-like setting of a stash house wasteland. It was in those numerous tiny moments of fluidly written descriptions that this book truly shined for me. It was in those quietly transcendent moments that I was just so thrilled I know how to read.
However, this was a moving and poignant story from beginning to end, both now and then, not only because of the uniqueness of Ibrahim I think, but in spite of it. Who helped with that? Nasim, Raj, Manny, Zac, Karla, Kaleem, Asha, and of course, Kwame and Breonna among others; in fact, almost every single character in this book moved me or helped me see the depth of the story. In almost the same way they all disrupted, changed, or ultimately helped elevate Ibrahim. He may have been the ubiquitous hero and focal point of the book, but it was all the people around him that told me who he was. That told him, who he was. And no one did this better or with more heart and stubbornness than Jada. From the beginning I loved this girl for never quite being blind or self-deceptive enough to act like she wasn't fully aware of what was going on right in front of her nose. The fact that those characteristics didn’t change much in her as she aged was a stunning relief, especially when contrasted with the continuance of Ibrahim’s preternatural strength of will and quiet, contemplative insights.
I loved this book. A lot more I think than I loved either of its main characters, which is saying a whole hell of a lot given how much I was feeling them both. But the expressiveness of a novel like this is in the little moments: a pastor’s smile, the awkwardness of a father who can barely talk with his own son, a high school girl aggressively pretending not to know she’s being used by a cute boy, the easily adaptive nature of an old woman and young man not sharing blood but still choosing to be family, a wealthy intelligent man with cheerful complacency acknowledging the fact he’s lost something truly important, or the dark dank morgue-like setting of a stash house wasteland. It was in those numerous tiny moments of fluidly written descriptions that this book truly shined for me. It was in those quietly transcendent moments that I was just so thrilled I know how to read.
December 18, 2019
Nia Forrester really is an exceptionally gifted, dope-ass writer, with a voice that is so rich and unique, and perspective that is so tightly wound in her stories, you don't know where it begins and ends, only that you are experiencing something that will not soon be replicated. In 'Courtship,' Nia's turned yet another corner with her writing—merging relationships and growth, intimacy and self-realization and actualization together in a way that just...speaks, vividly to your very core. I've yet to read anyone who tells a story the way she does, who has such a firm grasp of the human psyche and not only the emotions we experience, but the 'why' behind them. This is pretty easily one of her best works to date-- possibly even her best in terms of depth of writing and human exploration. For me, the details in the story almost took a backseat to her deep dive into Ibrahim's character, as she examines how the people around him shaped his vision of who he was and who he could be, even as his environment tried to overpower the slow realizations he was making about himself and the calling on his life. Nia is clearer and sharper than ever here, and at this point in her writing career that makes me super excited because it seems like she's only getting better and better...and that's saying a helluva lot given the depth her back catalog. This is just great writing that I'll no doubt return to again.
January 16, 2020
One of the things I enjoy reading about is mature love. To date there are only a few authors that I have read who are willing to write about it and do a damn good job. Author Nia Forrester is one of those writers.
We are introduced to Ibrahim from the story "Snowflake" which is his son Kaleem's story. From the flashbacks you really wanted to know more about him and his mom. I am so glad that the author took up the challenge to write about them.
Ibrahim is an interesting character he is a quiet storm, a man with full authority but doesn't have to boast about it. In this story Ibrahim is now home from spending 10 years in jail, things are different, his son is now a married man with his own son, training for the 2020 Olympics, his wife Jada has developed a routine of being on her own and Ibrahim feels as if he can't even provide for his family properly. Thus begins Ibrahim rediscovery of who he is, and his rebuilding.
In this story the author takes us back to the "Then" and "Now" about who Ibrahim was and now is, and who Jada was and now is. It was such an eye opening experience because their backstory told a lot about family and friends, how they grew up. Ibrahim was more on the softer side because he was the youngest and was with his mom more. His mother died after a long battle with Sickle Cell but the gentleness with him remained although his father and his brothers were mixed up in the gangs and drugs. Once he met Jada, Ibrahim knew he wanted a different life, a life that would allow him to be who he wanted to be.
Jada's story being born an only child to older parents, she was smart, fearless and after meeting Ibrahim knew she wanted to be with him. It was really interesting reading about them coming together. But Jada really took me through it and after reading this story, I don't really care for her (I'm sorry if other readers are fans of hers but I am not). I thought Jada to be scheming at times and not truthful and when they had their heart to heart, and she revealed somethings, a part of me just knew that about her. I won't bash her though, I just don't like her LOL!!
I want to see more of Ibrahim and his reconnected friendship/brother with Raj. I also want to see Ibrahim reconnecting with his family and helping them to finally get on the right track.
The "Afterward Series" is really fantastic. I still have one more book to read and that is "The Takedown" which is book 2 of Jamal Turner's story.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
We are introduced to Ibrahim from the story "Snowflake" which is his son Kaleem's story. From the flashbacks you really wanted to know more about him and his mom. I am so glad that the author took up the challenge to write about them.
Ibrahim is an interesting character he is a quiet storm, a man with full authority but doesn't have to boast about it. In this story Ibrahim is now home from spending 10 years in jail, things are different, his son is now a married man with his own son, training for the 2020 Olympics, his wife Jada has developed a routine of being on her own and Ibrahim feels as if he can't even provide for his family properly. Thus begins Ibrahim rediscovery of who he is, and his rebuilding.
In this story the author takes us back to the "Then" and "Now" about who Ibrahim was and now is, and who Jada was and now is. It was such an eye opening experience because their backstory told a lot about family and friends, how they grew up. Ibrahim was more on the softer side because he was the youngest and was with his mom more. His mother died after a long battle with Sickle Cell but the gentleness with him remained although his father and his brothers were mixed up in the gangs and drugs. Once he met Jada, Ibrahim knew he wanted a different life, a life that would allow him to be who he wanted to be.
Jada's story being born an only child to older parents, she was smart, fearless and after meeting Ibrahim knew she wanted to be with him. It was really interesting reading about them coming together. But Jada really took me through it and after reading this story, I don't really care for her (I'm sorry if other readers are fans of hers but I am not). I thought Jada to be scheming at times and not truthful and when they had their heart to heart, and she revealed somethings, a part of me just knew that about her. I won't bash her though, I just don't like her LOL!!
I want to see more of Ibrahim and his reconnected friendship/brother with Raj. I also want to see Ibrahim reconnecting with his family and helping them to finally get on the right track.
The "Afterward Series" is really fantastic. I still have one more book to read and that is "The Takedown" which is book 2 of Jamal Turner's story.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
January 12, 2025
To think, I almost missed out on reading this AMAZING book! Hands down, my favorite book of the year. Ibrahim!! That’s all I have to say. If you want a mature romance with major social justice topics, character development, and an extraordinary young man with a mind beyond his environment woven into the story, this is for you. I absolutely loved Ibrahim and just wanted so much for him throughout the entire book. Nia really knows how to tell a story and have you completely vested in the characters. I tried to like Jada, I really did, but she absolutely irritated me on so many occasions throughout the entire book. But that’s who Ibrahim loved. He was such an old soul. You will not be disappointed reading this book. I’d recommend reading Snowflake beforehand, though. I thought Snowflake was my favorite of Nia Forrester and that Courtship wouldn’t hold my attention, but I was pulled in the entire time and liked it even more. Such an amazing book
January 3, 2020
Have you ever?
Have you ever read a book and the characters personality was you? The way the person moved through life with an immovable conviction, that was Ibrahim and me. I could relate to this man. His persona was surreal. And to think he was able to untangle his barrage of what if's to accept Jada's independent nature. It wasn't easy without a lot of strife. Jada loved that man with all her heart and it showed when she struggled to understand Ibrahim Carter's conviction. Yet in the end, I was almost ready to pull up on the author and see what was up. I don't know why I doubted her ability to tell a story when she invites readers into the story. I was all in..
Have you ever read a book and the characters personality was you? The way the person moved through life with an immovable conviction, that was Ibrahim and me. I could relate to this man. His persona was surreal. And to think he was able to untangle his barrage of what if's to accept Jada's independent nature. It wasn't easy without a lot of strife. Jada loved that man with all her heart and it showed when she struggled to understand Ibrahim Carter's conviction. Yet in the end, I was almost ready to pull up on the author and see what was up. I don't know why I doubted her ability to tell a story when she invites readers into the story. I was all in..
August 5, 2021
Ibrahim is worth reading. His thoughtfulness, his evolution, his trauma. All beautiful to follow. I felt sad for Jada and understood she got the raw end of the deal, but I couldn't help but feel like she could've pushed Ibrahim harder to be better but she settled.
Overall 4.5/5 I enjoyed this style and pacing. Great job again Nia!
Overall 4.5/5 I enjoyed this style and pacing. Great job again Nia!
December 24, 2019
A lesson within a beautifully written story!
When I read Snowflake I couldn't help but be intrigued by the relationship between Ibrahim and Jada. And after reading Courtship I was happy to discover how fascinatingly beautiful their journey was, and to witness just how many lessons can be learned through trials and tests of character. This story most certainly lived up to what I come to expect from Nia Forrester, and then some!
When I read Snowflake I couldn't help but be intrigued by the relationship between Ibrahim and Jada. And after reading Courtship I was happy to discover how fascinatingly beautiful their journey was, and to witness just how many lessons can be learned through trials and tests of character. This story most certainly lived up to what I come to expect from Nia Forrester, and then some!
December 31, 2021
I read really fast , but I took my time reading this book, Nia Forrester is one of my favorite authors, when she publishes I always take my time to enjoy it. Ibrahim is a complicated cool man , and the writing of his experiences returning home from prison are very honest, l know because I watch my nephew experience the same things . How can you feel like a man if they won’t let you support your family ,after you’ve paid your debt to society?Ibrahim loved his wife and son so much , and Jada wow, men dream of the love an dedication she has for him. Jada waited for her man because she truly loved him. I loved this story.
Cons: I wanted to see more of Jada’s struggle waiting for her husband, and more of her feelings with him being home .
The ending, how do you end this story when there is obviously so much more to be told ? I hope we are getting more from this couple.
Cons: I wanted to see more of Jada’s struggle waiting for her husband, and more of her feelings with him being home .
The ending, how do you end this story when there is obviously so much more to be told ? I hope we are getting more from this couple.
December 20, 2022
Nia Forrester has a talent for writing such wholesome characters like characters with charm, heart, charisma, you name it, she has written it.
This is the type of story whixh is heart warming, it had a lot of moments which made me teary eyed like I think I love this character, are there hand just like thus in the world. I'm drawn to the warmth that is exuded in these characters, purely wholesomeness.
The time travel between the "Then" & "Now" also adds to the magic of the story. Chef's kiss, close to perfection, you can't believe it's ended.
Also another thing about Nia Forrester's writing is that you want to be taken with on these characters journey even after the book ends, you think about those fictional characters like what happened to this or that character, did they ever get to, the characters stay with you long after the book has ended. She writes characters which stick, I'm so glad I get to experience Nia Forrester's work.
This is the type of story whixh is heart warming, it had a lot of moments which made me teary eyed like I think I love this character, are there hand just like thus in the world. I'm drawn to the warmth that is exuded in these characters, purely wholesomeness.
The time travel between the "Then" & "Now" also adds to the magic of the story. Chef's kiss, close to perfection, you can't believe it's ended.
Also another thing about Nia Forrester's writing is that you want to be taken with on these characters journey even after the book ends, you think about those fictional characters like what happened to this or that character, did they ever get to, the characters stay with you long after the book has ended. She writes characters which stick, I'm so glad I get to experience Nia Forrester's work.
December 14, 2019
Omg
Just finished reading and this was intense. Let me start at the end I was just getting comfortable and it ended. I was holding my breath. I love Jada and prophet. Their love story is sweet and salty. Breaks your heart and then make you cry. I wanted to read more about their travels. I held my breath when he left and came back and the story Jada told him, till the end. Nia this was awesome. More please. 🖤🖤
Just finished reading and this was intense. Let me start at the end I was just getting comfortable and it ended. I was holding my breath. I love Jada and prophet. Their love story is sweet and salty. Breaks your heart and then make you cry. I wanted to read more about their travels. I held my breath when he left and came back and the story Jada told him, till the end. Nia this was awesome. More please. 🖤🖤
December 13, 2019
Another great story!
I can't give her books anything but 5 stars! One of my top 3 authors. This is a story of a young love that developed into a deep adult love even with 10 years of physical separation. They were still connected spiritually but he just never realized how much. Nia tells their story in the way only she can!!
I can't give her books anything but 5 stars! One of my top 3 authors. This is a story of a young love that developed into a deep adult love even with 10 years of physical separation. They were still connected spiritually but he just never realized how much. Nia tells their story in the way only she can!!
January 5, 2020
Need More
A great way to start this year, a Nia Forrester book. Loved her writing. A journey with Jada and Phophet (Kaleem,s parents) from young adults to grown folks. Well written and a must read.
A great way to start this year, a Nia Forrester book. Loved her writing. A journey with Jada and Phophet (Kaleem,s parents) from young adults to grown folks. Well written and a must read.
December 13, 2019
Breathtakingly beautiful
I really enjoyed this story. I do highly recommend. It will be difficult to put it .read it within 24 hours. Brilliant writing Nia.
I really enjoyed this story. I do highly recommend. It will be difficult to put it .read it within 24 hours. Brilliant writing Nia.
January 2, 2020
Masterpiece
Nia from the bottom of my hear thank you for this. I’m crying as I type this i received beautiful work art with such an open heart and I’m soo full. Thank you!
Nia from the bottom of my hear thank you for this. I’m crying as I type this i received beautiful work art with such an open heart and I’m soo full. Thank you!
December 16, 2019
Love...
I loved Courtship and the flawed characters. Ibrahim was my favorite, a good man child, then man caught up in and going along with what was his expected lot. But his lot wasn’t who he was or his soul. I also love that Jada, the ultimate good girl, who resembled closely someone I once knew, SAW him and his heart.
This was no easy story that just seamlessly meant they met and life got great... what it got was better even when it wasn’t because of their connection and other connections, Ibrahim made as a young man falling in love with young woman he felt he should have left alone... if he could have.
This is a story of love, faith, endurance and ultimately loyalty to the aforementioned things. But it wasn’t without risk or even temptation. I also liked that the coming back together after Ibrahim’s ten year incarceration occurred but wasn’t easy. The struggle was REAL.. achingly real.
Thanks Nia Forrester for giving us real, flawed, imperfect people who never stop trying.
#Amazon
December 26, 2019
Title: Courtship: A 'Snowflake'
Author: Nia Forrester
Publisher: Stiletto Press, LLC
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Courtship: A 'Snowflake" by Nia Forrester
My Rationalization:
What an exciting story of Ibrahim Carter's life as he 'struggles to figure out his future, marriage, and his very existence.' Be ready as this author delivers to the compelling story that will keep your attention as you turn the pages to see what was coming or had gone on as we see how Ibrahim and Jade's life was going on.
Author: Nia Forrester
Publisher: Stiletto Press, LLC
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Courtship: A 'Snowflake" by Nia Forrester
My Rationalization:
What an exciting story of Ibrahim Carter's life as he 'struggles to figure out his future, marriage, and his very existence.' Be ready as this author delivers to the compelling story that will keep your attention as you turn the pages to see what was coming or had gone on as we see how Ibrahim and Jade's life was going on.
December 30, 2019
The story I didn’t even know I wanted turned into the story I couldn’t get enough of. I should have known that Nia would have me hooked. Gah...that darn Ibrahim!!! His struggles and determination to be “more” and Jada’s love for him. Loved every moment of this one and hope to hear more about these two in the future!!!
December 21, 2019
Wow
This Author is just awesome, I am at a loss on how to describe her work, so heartfelt, you feel all the emotions as your read, I could feel the love between Ibrahim (prophet) and Jada leap off the pages. I read another review by another reader who stated she was so sure Ms. Forrester moonlighted as a sociologist because of how great she balances the interactions between her characters and their communities. I feel full and empty at the same time...This story is sooooo beautiful, happy reading...
This Author is just awesome, I am at a loss on how to describe her work, so heartfelt, you feel all the emotions as your read, I could feel the love between Ibrahim (prophet) and Jada leap off the pages. I read another review by another reader who stated she was so sure Ms. Forrester moonlighted as a sociologist because of how great she balances the interactions between her characters and their communities. I feel full and empty at the same time...This story is sooooo beautiful, happy reading...
October 26, 2020
I would’ve given this book a 5 if not for the ending as it seemed abrupt to me.
Besides that, it had so many elements I love. Ibrahim was such an amazing man. Not perfect by any means but he did right by Jada. Loved her so well. Jada annoyed sometimes with her naivety but I really liked her as well. She was just what Ibrahim needed. It was a shame they lost so much time with those unforeseen circumstances. I know a big part of it was due to the way he felt he failed Bree. Just glad they are able to air things out and hopefully start to rebuild.
Besides that, it had so many elements I love. Ibrahim was such an amazing man. Not perfect by any means but he did right by Jada. Loved her so well. Jada annoyed sometimes with her naivety but I really liked her as well. She was just what Ibrahim needed. It was a shame they lost so much time with those unforeseen circumstances. I know a big part of it was due to the way he felt he failed Bree. Just glad they are able to air things out and hopefully start to rebuild.
November 24, 2022
Beautifully crafted story
This story was so beautifully crafted. Very word and scene had purpose and made you feel connected to the characters. There as so much to Ibrahim and Jada’s journey and I still want to know more. I hope more of their now is coming in the near future.
This story was so beautifully crafted. Very word and scene had purpose and made you feel connected to the characters. There as so much to Ibrahim and Jada’s journey and I still want to know more. I hope more of their now is coming in the near future.
December 8, 2020
Jada and Ibrahim, then and now
'Courtship' had some of everything: Reclaiming your life, Loyalty, Intimacy, Abuse, Romance, tragic characters, heartbreaking situations, good friends, mean friends, life in the hood, life in the burbs, and much more.
The courtship of Jada and Ibrahim was told in both the present and the past. Teenage Jada and Ibrahim gave me serious 'Westside Story,' 'The Notebook,' 'Rebel Without A Cause,' vibes. So, even though the story of the privileged girl falling for the seemingly bad boy, is in no way original, this particular story was still a very good read.
I appreciated the love story between the young couple, and also the real challenges of the older-time-tested version of the couple. Jada was exactly what one would expect of a young woman whose had never had any real strife in her life. And although her naïveté was frustrating at times, her outlook on life was also refreshing. But, the star of this novel was Ibrahim.
First Side Note: It was so great to have the opportunity to spend more time with Kaleem and Asha ('Snowflake' and 'Rhyme and Reason') and their new baby, Anwar❤️
Ibrahim is quite a man. He was an impressive man of twenty, and an even more impressive man of forty-five. His thirst for a life different from what his circumstances would dictate, was awe inspiring. I truly appreciated the side characters in this novel -the people who have knowledge are also ones who can so easily overlooked. Then there were the characters that broke my heart - Breonna, Dee and Manny.
Ms. Forrester wrote people who unwittingly shape the people we become; the skinny Indian guy, old Polish lady and the OG who sees a world beyond the streets. All offering food and wisdom.
Second Side Note: the 'Now' part of the novel is told in the 1st person present tense, which was jarring because the 'Then' part of the story is told in the third person. This was not my favorite type of writing, however, I loved the storytelling.
'Courtship' had some of everything: Reclaiming your life, Loyalty, Intimacy, Abuse, Romance, tragic characters, heartbreaking situations, good friends, mean friends, life in the hood, life in the burbs, and much more.
The courtship of Jada and Ibrahim was told in both the present and the past. Teenage Jada and Ibrahim gave me serious 'Westside Story,' 'The Notebook,' 'Rebel Without A Cause,' vibes. So, even though the story of the privileged girl falling for the seemingly bad boy, is in no way original, this particular story was still a very good read.
I appreciated the love story between the young couple, and also the real challenges of the older-time-tested version of the couple. Jada was exactly what one would expect of a young woman whose had never had any real strife in her life. And although her naïveté was frustrating at times, her outlook on life was also refreshing. But, the star of this novel was Ibrahim.
First Side Note: It was so great to have the opportunity to spend more time with Kaleem and Asha ('Snowflake' and 'Rhyme and Reason') and their new baby, Anwar❤️
Ibrahim is quite a man. He was an impressive man of twenty, and an even more impressive man of forty-five. His thirst for a life different from what his circumstances would dictate, was awe inspiring. I truly appreciated the side characters in this novel -the people who have knowledge are also ones who can so easily overlooked. Then there were the characters that broke my heart - Breonna, Dee and Manny.
Ms. Forrester wrote people who unwittingly shape the people we become; the skinny Indian guy, old Polish lady and the OG who sees a world beyond the streets. All offering food and wisdom.
Second Side Note: the 'Now' part of the novel is told in the 1st person present tense, which was jarring because the 'Then' part of the story is told in the third person. This was not my favorite type of writing, however, I loved the storytelling.
January 9, 2020
Calm and then the Storm
Jada is 17, fun, free spirited young lady who attends a private school and lives in a two parent household. Her cousin Dee loves to party, hangs on the wrong side of the tracks and in love with bad boy Manny Carter of the Carter boys. One night at a house party, Jada meets Ibrahim aka Prophet. Fine as wine, smart and still trying to decide why after meeting Jada one night she is on his mind. I love the way Ibrahim grows into a man, trying to separate his family lifestyle from this high-schooler who has is attention. Dee and Manny are crazy about each other but Manny is not ready to go to the next level with her. When Prophet goes to jail for 1yr Jada continues to write him and slowly this is the beginning of their relationship. Prophet is gone and Ibrahim returns one year later. I love that Ibrahim knows he wants to change, no more streets ,he gets a job which leads him to meet Raj an Indian soon to be MIT student. These two develop a friendship that will forever change both of their lives. Jada parents learn their daughters now 18 is dating this older boy she met from a party. As Ibrahim prepares to meet her parents he will court Jada as he knows he wants to marry. Two different worlds collide, but two people who will stand the test of time when finally they get married and then Ibrahim is talked back to jail for ten years. Now Jada has been raising their son, two people will have to find their ay back to each other, Ibrahim will have to see how he can work in a society that barely want to give felons a job and get to know his son and his family. Beautiful Nia F!
Jada is 17, fun, free spirited young lady who attends a private school and lives in a two parent household. Her cousin Dee loves to party, hangs on the wrong side of the tracks and in love with bad boy Manny Carter of the Carter boys. One night at a house party, Jada meets Ibrahim aka Prophet. Fine as wine, smart and still trying to decide why after meeting Jada one night she is on his mind. I love the way Ibrahim grows into a man, trying to separate his family lifestyle from this high-schooler who has is attention. Dee and Manny are crazy about each other but Manny is not ready to go to the next level with her. When Prophet goes to jail for 1yr Jada continues to write him and slowly this is the beginning of their relationship. Prophet is gone and Ibrahim returns one year later. I love that Ibrahim knows he wants to change, no more streets ,he gets a job which leads him to meet Raj an Indian soon to be MIT student. These two develop a friendship that will forever change both of their lives. Jada parents learn their daughters now 18 is dating this older boy she met from a party. As Ibrahim prepares to meet her parents he will court Jada as he knows he wants to marry. Two different worlds collide, but two people who will stand the test of time when finally they get married and then Ibrahim is talked back to jail for ten years. Now Jada has been raising their son, two people will have to find their ay back to each other, Ibrahim will have to see how he can work in a society that barely want to give felons a job and get to know his son and his family. Beautiful Nia F!
December 31, 2020
A few spoilers!! I enjoyed this series. The Carter family has grown so much in both books...excited to read Unplanned. Nia Forresster did a great job demonstrating what love looks like through strife and trials. Jada and Ibrahim struggle to create a new normal, as in many ways they are exactly were they were when they first got married. What does the marriage look like, gender roles and am I able to be the man/woman & spouse I want and need to be for each other.
Ibrahim doesn't feel he fits in the way he feels a man should and doubts some of the decisions he has made. Jada questions their future as she isn't sure how to welcome and treat her husband. They are on 2 different paths trying to find each other to build again after Ibrahim finished his time in prison. They are connected through their son Kaleem. Kaleem's growth, new family and continued Olympic goals put a spark in both of their eyes. It looks as Kaleem's marriage may teach, reteach rather, his parents how to communicate and be as husband & wife again.
The mature love, romance and relationship struggles was great to read about. A reminder that the hard work is just beginning once you say "I do". Both Jada and Kaleem made sure they celebrated and reminded Ibrahim they wouldn't be who they were without him being the man he is. Though he seems as he has lost himself while incarcerated, his wife and son try to remind him of the man he once was & still is to them. Ibrahim grieves what he is missing and potentially creates a bigger wedge in his marriage.
Ibrahim doesn't feel he fits in the way he feels a man should and doubts some of the decisions he has made. Jada questions their future as she isn't sure how to welcome and treat her husband. They are on 2 different paths trying to find each other to build again after Ibrahim finished his time in prison. They are connected through their son Kaleem. Kaleem's growth, new family and continued Olympic goals put a spark in both of their eyes. It looks as Kaleem's marriage may teach, reteach rather, his parents how to communicate and be as husband & wife again.
The mature love, romance and relationship struggles was great to read about. A reminder that the hard work is just beginning once you say "I do". Both Jada and Kaleem made sure they celebrated and reminded Ibrahim they wouldn't be who they were without him being the man he is. Though he seems as he has lost himself while incarcerated, his wife and son try to remind him of the man he once was & still is to them. Ibrahim grieves what he is missing and potentially creates a bigger wedge in his marriage.
December 27, 2019
Gosh, nobody crafts, structures, builds, creates a fictional man quite like Nia Forrester. I love how she authenticates the black male ego, intellect, pride, sexiness, and swagger. Her heroes are the ones that you typically want for yourself and Ibrahim is no different.
I loved that he was the antithesis of what would be produced from his family, experience, and community. He was just the type of magic that happens when the stars align. I also loved the sweetness of his relationship with Jada.
They both gave as good as they got and they both drove me batty. I admired his love and intention for Jada and later his son however some of his decisions were less than thoughtful and rivaled that of a controlling dictator. Jada at times was a sheltered brat but they were made for each other.
The only thing that kept this book from being a five star read was the ending. There were way too many loose ends. I get allowing the reader to reach their own conclusions but not with so many things in the air. I have no certainty about things either way and that IMO was the only shortcoming and slight disappointment.
I loved that he was the antithesis of what would be produced from his family, experience, and community. He was just the type of magic that happens when the stars align. I also loved the sweetness of his relationship with Jada.
They both gave as good as they got and they both drove me batty. I admired his love and intention for Jada and later his son however some of his decisions were less than thoughtful and rivaled that of a controlling dictator. Jada at times was a sheltered brat but they were made for each other.
The only thing that kept this book from being a five star read was the ending. There were way too many loose ends. I get allowing the reader to reach their own conclusions but not with so many things in the air. I have no certainty about things either way and that IMO was the only shortcoming and slight disappointment.
December 16, 2019
Ibrahim and Jada...
I loved reading about the love story of Ibrahim and Jada. I fell in love with them as a couple. I love Ibrahim's silent strength and calmness. Although, I think he is sometimes his own greatest enemy. I really enjoyed getting an update on Kaleem and Asha and their baby boy. I hope to get more of their story soon. I would like to see Kaleem's Olympic dreams realized. I overall enjoyed the story, but would have liked more of the present life of Ibrahim and Jada and their adjustment to life together after so many years apart. Also, the ending seemed a little abrupt. Does he go into business with Raj? What is the next chapter for Ibrahim and Jada? There seems to be more story to tell.
I loved reading about the love story of Ibrahim and Jada. I fell in love with them as a couple. I love Ibrahim's silent strength and calmness. Although, I think he is sometimes his own greatest enemy. I really enjoyed getting an update on Kaleem and Asha and their baby boy. I hope to get more of their story soon. I would like to see Kaleem's Olympic dreams realized. I overall enjoyed the story, but would have liked more of the present life of Ibrahim and Jada and their adjustment to life together after so many years apart. Also, the ending seemed a little abrupt. Does he go into business with Raj? What is the next chapter for Ibrahim and Jada? There seems to be more story to tell.
December 22, 2019
Beautifully Woven Story
Nia Forrester did what she had to do! Amazing work. This storyline was woven together so flawlessly that this felt like a true account of someone’s life. This honestly felt like she was writing someone’s biography and that she put a lot of care into getting it right. Or like she was writing in tribute to someone she knows in real life who is reflected in a character in this book. The outcomes were so realistic. The introspection also felt very raw and honest. I won’t say this is my personal favorite by her, but I have to give props to this work in saying that this is hands down her best writing to date!
Nia Forrester did what she had to do! Amazing work. This storyline was woven together so flawlessly that this felt like a true account of someone’s life. This honestly felt like she was writing someone’s biography and that she put a lot of care into getting it right. Or like she was writing in tribute to someone she knows in real life who is reflected in a character in this book. The outcomes were so realistic. The introspection also felt very raw and honest. I won’t say this is my personal favorite by her, but I have to give props to this work in saying that this is hands down her best writing to date!
December 22, 2019
The best to do it
Nia Forrester is the best when it comes to pulling out the intricacies of Black life and Black love. Everything she writes shows the intimacies of her character's personal journeys and allows the reader to connect with the who and why and how people come I to themselves. Ibrahim and Jada's story is beautiful in particular because it tells the story of love with so many intersections. Two young people finding love when it often feels like they're from different worlds. Their love in the past and their journey back to their deep connection in the present. There really aren't words to describe all the ways I love her work, just read it. Every last book.
Nia Forrester is the best when it comes to pulling out the intricacies of Black life and Black love. Everything she writes shows the intimacies of her character's personal journeys and allows the reader to connect with the who and why and how people come I to themselves. Ibrahim and Jada's story is beautiful in particular because it tells the story of love with so many intersections. Two young people finding love when it often feels like they're from different worlds. Their love in the past and their journey back to their deep connection in the present. There really aren't words to describe all the ways I love her work, just read it. Every last book.
January 5, 2020
First book of the year!
Now this is how you tell a story! I’ve definitely been curious about Ibrahim and Jada, but honestly, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to hear their story. I hate to see bad things happen to good people, and what had happened to Ibrahim seemed soooo bad. But hearing their story made things make sense, while also leaving me with a sense of sadness about how things should have been.
I’m not sure I have the words to convey just how good this story is, so I’ll just say, please read it for yourself. Ibrahim Carter is an intriguing character, and his story, his journey, both individually and with Jada, is quite the ride.
Nia Forrester, you continue to rock!
Now this is how you tell a story! I’ve definitely been curious about Ibrahim and Jada, but honestly, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to hear their story. I hate to see bad things happen to good people, and what had happened to Ibrahim seemed soooo bad. But hearing their story made things make sense, while also leaving me with a sense of sadness about how things should have been.
I’m not sure I have the words to convey just how good this story is, so I’ll just say, please read it for yourself. Ibrahim Carter is an intriguing character, and his story, his journey, both individually and with Jada, is quite the ride.
Nia Forrester, you continue to rock!
January 5, 2020
If I could give this story ten stars I would!
Ibrahim was THEE definition of visibly unbothered. I understood and empathized with Jade's frustration in some interactions with him. She would need a visceral reaction from him, and Ibrahim would come up short. His struggles were internalized and greatly impacted his relationship with his family. A reunion with an old friend allows Ibrahim to reflect and put things into perspective. Dear Nia, I need need another story with this couple and yes they should totally have another baby. Her momma had her late so it's definitely doable. Please and thank you.😉
Ibrahim was THEE definition of visibly unbothered. I understood and empathized with Jade's frustration in some interactions with him. She would need a visceral reaction from him, and Ibrahim would come up short. His struggles were internalized and greatly impacted his relationship with his family. A reunion with an old friend allows Ibrahim to reflect and put things into perspective. Dear Nia, I need need another story with this couple and yes they should totally have another baby. Her momma had her late so it's definitely doable. Please and thank you.😉
January 26, 2020
About a 4/5
One of my absolute favorite parts of Snowflake besides the main storyline was hearing bits and pieces about Kal’s mom and dad and how their relationship progressed. All throughout reading it I kept hoping that we’d get another story for them and we did!! I think I loved the past chapters a bit more than the present. IMO, the present felt too unresolved and seemed more like filler. Also a lot of what transpired at the end felt random to me and without much resolution it had me wondering what the point was? But overall the past sections of the book kept me from not enjoying it and I’m glad we got this story.
One of my absolute favorite parts of Snowflake besides the main storyline was hearing bits and pieces about Kal’s mom and dad and how their relationship progressed. All throughout reading it I kept hoping that we’d get another story for them and we did!! I think I loved the past chapters a bit more than the present. IMO, the present felt too unresolved and seemed more like filler. Also a lot of what transpired at the end felt random to me and without much resolution it had me wondering what the point was? But overall the past sections of the book kept me from not enjoying it and I’m glad we got this story.
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