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In Black & White
A marriage, a friendship, the fate of a missing child ... All three hang in the balance. Noah and Dana are already facing a difficult time in their short marriage when their daughter, Samara, is abducted. The fallout from friends and family, and the harsh judgment of the public, force them to face some difficult truths about their views on love, marriage, and race. As Dana reflects on the road leading to her and Noah's union, she begins to examine her motives for getting married, consider whether they should go on, and most painfully, question whether she and her husband ever really knew each other at all.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2019
191 people are currently reading
139 people want to read
About the author
Nia Forrester
67 books954 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 79 reviews
October 26, 2025
This was a well written, engaging thriller with a interwoven love story . Its a story of an interacial relationship where the fmc feels she's not accepted in the mmcs world and the one person that helps her to navigate that world betrayed her just as much as her husband did with their infidelity.
Their daughter is kidnapped on the day she's going to file divorce papers. Shes forced to re-examine their relationship from begining to end plus work together with him and the detectives to solve the mystery of where her 18 month daughter is.
Their daughter is kidnapped on the day she's going to file divorce papers. Shes forced to re-examine their relationship from begining to end plus work together with him and the detectives to solve the mystery of where her 18 month daughter is.
August 27, 2019
Once I finally started this story I did find it quite intriguing as the search for Noah and Dana's daughter, Samara, brought on discussions that had been omitted in the past. Likable characters. Storyline and content kept me reading as I was interested in finding the identity of the culprit. Good read
July 8, 2025
3.5 ⭐️This was such an intriguing story, and I honestly appreciate it when authors think outside the box. The characters and narrative were painfully real; however, the ending disappointed me.
When Dana and Noah's daughter is abducted at the beginning of the novel, it compels them—especially Dana, as it is told entirely from her point of view—to consider how they, as a relationship, got to this position. As an interracial couple, Dana (Black) and Noah (White), we get to see the foundation of their relationship and the journey they went through.
The pair is presently separated due to Noah's infidelity, and I'm not sure if it's because we only see Noah through her eyes, but he didn't appear to make any effort to repair his marriage. We never knew why he betrayed her. Then there's Dana, who has struggled throughout the relationship to be accepted and adapt in an environment that will never accept her. Dana definitely loves him, but I didn't enjoy how he didn't grovel as Dana did at the end. I don't know, it nearly appears that they settled for each other. No one seems sorry for what they did to Dana; it's as if she adjusted her understanding of what had happened to her, and as a result of her guilt for "playing a part" in her daughter's kidnapping, she started looking at herself. No one had "growth" but Dana.
F**K Beckett weird ass and F**K Noah's weird ass mom. Noah ain't shit either but I felt bad for him for some reason idk. I must admit that I find it really plausible that a marriage like this might exist in the real world sadly.
When Dana and Noah's daughter is abducted at the beginning of the novel, it compels them—especially Dana, as it is told entirely from her point of view—to consider how they, as a relationship, got to this position. As an interracial couple, Dana (Black) and Noah (White), we get to see the foundation of their relationship and the journey they went through.
The pair is presently separated due to Noah's infidelity, and I'm not sure if it's because we only see Noah through her eyes, but he didn't appear to make any effort to repair his marriage. We never knew why he betrayed her. Then there's Dana, who has struggled throughout the relationship to be accepted and adapt in an environment that will never accept her. Dana definitely loves him, but I didn't enjoy how he didn't grovel as Dana did at the end. I don't know, it nearly appears that they settled for each other. No one seems sorry for what they did to Dana; it's as if she adjusted her understanding of what had happened to her, and as a result of her guilt for "playing a part" in her daughter's kidnapping, she started looking at herself. No one had "growth" but Dana.
F**K Beckett weird ass and F**K Noah's weird ass mom. Noah ain't shit either but I felt bad for him for some reason idk. I must admit that I find it really plausible that a marriage like this might exist in the real world sadly.
February 5, 2020
Ugh, this book right here was painfully good I hated it and loved it. I felt for this couple and what they were going through with their daughter's abduction that was so heartbreaking. I can't even imagine the actuality of it. There was also the side story of their relationship as they were currently separated and through this ordeal Dana takes us on a journey of their courtship to their marriage to bringing their baby into the world. I loved that we got to see that. I just had a hard time understanding why Noah did what he did and that amount of times and with her so-called best friend.
I hated Beckket through this whole thing she was imo not a good friend from the start though I give her some props for helping Dana step into the world of the rich and privileged life but other than that her actions, her mouth the fact she slept with her husband her ass and his ass should have beat period.
I will say this was a juicy story that will stay with me forever and I was rooting for Dana and Noah and hope we get a novella with more them reason being I'm greedy and unsatisfied with the end, hell I didn't want it to end. All in all a great story that broke my heart but sort of put it back together? Because I just want to make sure the made it. lol
Happy Reading friends!
I hated Beckket through this whole thing she was imo not a good friend from the start though I give her some props for helping Dana step into the world of the rich and privileged life but other than that her actions, her mouth the fact she slept with her husband her ass and his ass should have beat period.
I will say this was a juicy story that will stay with me forever and I was rooting for Dana and Noah and hope we get a novella with more them reason being I'm greedy and unsatisfied with the end, hell I didn't want it to end. All in all a great story that broke my heart but sort of put it back together? Because I just want to make sure the made it. lol
Happy Reading friends!
September 28, 2019
I wanted to like this one....had potential. But the characters were so unlikeable. All of them. I liked Dana a smidge more than the rest just because she was the one screwed in the process and no one seemed to care. But this did not represent a strong black woman who doesn’t take shit. What a doormat!
Noah, his mother and father, so called friend Beckett were terrible people and Dana deserved so much more. I thought Gwen would have shook some sense into Dana but no she seemed to be on the bandwagon.
No retribution, no groveling, no remorse, no lessons learned, no character growth. They were exactly the same people from beginning to end. For as much as the author lauded to dealing with marriage, race and classism, nothing was ever properly dealt with, discussed or overcome. Just silence. Nothing would have kept me in a terrible marriage like this with a terrible family. It was so frustrating and I wished that the ending would have been more solid. It’s not, wasn’t even an HEA - it was settling and Dana was the one groveling. Hated this one.
Noah, his mother and father, so called friend Beckett were terrible people and Dana deserved so much more. I thought Gwen would have shook some sense into Dana but no she seemed to be on the bandwagon.
No retribution, no groveling, no remorse, no lessons learned, no character growth. They were exactly the same people from beginning to end. For as much as the author lauded to dealing with marriage, race and classism, nothing was ever properly dealt with, discussed or overcome. Just silence. Nothing would have kept me in a terrible marriage like this with a terrible family. It was so frustrating and I wished that the ending would have been more solid. It’s not, wasn’t even an HEA - it was settling and Dana was the one groveling. Hated this one.
August 8, 2019
When I read the synopsis I was unsure if I would read this. Nia Forrester is one of my favorite authors but child abduction is a no for me... but it’s Nia and I had to. Reading it grew my respect even more because not only was this about child abduction, it was interracial but it mostly didn’t feel like either. It felt like a relation filled with love but also unspoken differences and a sense of not belonging in the world of one’s spouse. The abduction was the catalyst for truth that wouldn’t have occurred were it not for the horrific event. I loved the peeling back of layers, the telling of the story that led to everything... I don’t want to tell too much, other than to encourage you to read it... open minded. #cillasbookmaniacs
August 11, 2019
Another amazing story!
This story was so layered that I don’t know where to start. I normally don’t do IR but this story kept me captivated. The purity of the love Dana and Noah shared knew no color. Noah was just human and decent but his world was far from that. Dana knew that she didn’t belong and her feelings of unworthiness shaped their entire relationship and even her relationships with others. I felt for her because those she thought would fight for her didn’t and she didn’t know how to do it herself. Beckett, in my opinion was more a frenemy than a friend and it took an extreme situation for her to stop ignoring that. In classic Nia style, there is no tidy bow to this story but I would love to hear more from Dana and Noah. This was an IR I rooted for.
This story was so layered that I don’t know where to start. I normally don’t do IR but this story kept me captivated. The purity of the love Dana and Noah shared knew no color. Noah was just human and decent but his world was far from that. Dana knew that she didn’t belong and her feelings of unworthiness shaped their entire relationship and even her relationships with others. I felt for her because those she thought would fight for her didn’t and she didn’t know how to do it herself. Beckett, in my opinion was more a frenemy than a friend and it took an extreme situation for her to stop ignoring that. In classic Nia style, there is no tidy bow to this story but I would love to hear more from Dana and Noah. This was an IR I rooted for.
January 6, 2020
It took me so long to finish this book by choice. I never wanted it to end. The characters...the storyline ..Nia made you feel like you really knew these people. This story was different from her previous work and I enjoyed it thoroughly. When Nia writes she tells a STORY. When she creates characters you feel like one of them could easily be a friend or relative. This story was good, good, good. She is easily one of my favorite authors. There was no happy or perfect ending with this one. Wish I could rate it ten stars. Keep writing Nia!
August 11, 2019
Nia Forrester never fails to create realistic portrayals of love that I always find so beautifully written. She never disappoints. And this is definitely true in her latest, In Black & White.
Set in a leafy suburb of Philadelphia, we're immediate dropped into what is every parent's nightmare--the disappearance of a child. In this case, it's the disappearance of 18-month-old Samara, the daughter of interracial couple Noah and Dana. Samara's abduction and the subsequent fallout around it mark the beginning of a fascinating story that is in parts mystery and a thoroughly modern story of a love on the rocks.
Forrester is a master at crafting three-dimensional characters. Dana and Noah are no different. From the first chapter when we learn the status of their marriage, we are given a very realistic, sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes frustrating portrayal of a couple who come from different worlds. Noah is the product of privileged, old Pennsylvania money. Dana is his polar opposite--raised in a working-class neighbourhood in Baltimore by her grandmother and her older sister, she has struggled to get used to the life of privilege being Noah's wife affords, especially since her skin color will always mark her as out of place in the world that Noah comes from. One of the aspects I loved about In Black & White is how Forrester deftly takes us through the couple's history and its relevance to their separation. These snippets of their shared past help the reader understand who Dana and Noah were when they first met and what attracted them to one another as well as what has driven them apart.
This is not a sugar-coated, fantasy-laden love story, so if that's what you're looking for, then this isn't going to be the book for you. But if you're in the mood for a very realistic look at a modern love and marriage, racial and socioeconomic differences (and how it can make or break a couple), and how the disappearance of a child can unveil secrets, then you're going to love In Black & White.
Highly recommended! 5 stars.
Set in a leafy suburb of Philadelphia, we're immediate dropped into what is every parent's nightmare--the disappearance of a child. In this case, it's the disappearance of 18-month-old Samara, the daughter of interracial couple Noah and Dana. Samara's abduction and the subsequent fallout around it mark the beginning of a fascinating story that is in parts mystery and a thoroughly modern story of a love on the rocks.
Forrester is a master at crafting three-dimensional characters. Dana and Noah are no different. From the first chapter when we learn the status of their marriage, we are given a very realistic, sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes frustrating portrayal of a couple who come from different worlds. Noah is the product of privileged, old Pennsylvania money. Dana is his polar opposite--raised in a working-class neighbourhood in Baltimore by her grandmother and her older sister, she has struggled to get used to the life of privilege being Noah's wife affords, especially since her skin color will always mark her as out of place in the world that Noah comes from. One of the aspects I loved about In Black & White is how Forrester deftly takes us through the couple's history and its relevance to their separation. These snippets of their shared past help the reader understand who Dana and Noah were when they first met and what attracted them to one another as well as what has driven them apart.
This is not a sugar-coated, fantasy-laden love story, so if that's what you're looking for, then this isn't going to be the book for you. But if you're in the mood for a very realistic look at a modern love and marriage, racial and socioeconomic differences (and how it can make or break a couple), and how the disappearance of a child can unveil secrets, then you're going to love In Black & White.
Highly recommended! 5 stars.
August 8, 2019
And a little Gray.
The story started with a large bang, and rumbled into a smooth ending for this gloriously fabulous story. In this IR story, Noah didn't give off an entitled man persona, so I was taken aback by his infidelity. Dana, I wanted to hug and strangle. She made a mistake, and I hated how she kept beating herself up because of it. She was much stronger than she realized. I never liked Beckett, I could feel her shady shiftiness. You'll see why as you get into the story. Theresa and the Judge, his parents mostly gave me unclear vibes. I loved Gwen to pieces, Dana's sister. I could never pinpoint why Dana was so insecure when Noah clearly loved her. The power and privilege of his family should not have rattled her as much as it did. I hope Gwen and Officer Lewis get a story. In the end the family came together again, not just for their daughter's benefit, but out of love. Everything isn't Black and White, occasionally there are shades of Gray. Excellent Novel!
The story started with a large bang, and rumbled into a smooth ending for this gloriously fabulous story. In this IR story, Noah didn't give off an entitled man persona, so I was taken aback by his infidelity. Dana, I wanted to hug and strangle. She made a mistake, and I hated how she kept beating herself up because of it. She was much stronger than she realized. I never liked Beckett, I could feel her shady shiftiness. You'll see why as you get into the story. Theresa and the Judge, his parents mostly gave me unclear vibes. I loved Gwen to pieces, Dana's sister. I could never pinpoint why Dana was so insecure when Noah clearly loved her. The power and privilege of his family should not have rattled her as much as it did. I hope Gwen and Officer Lewis get a story. In the end the family came together again, not just for their daughter's benefit, but out of love. Everything isn't Black and White, occasionally there are shades of Gray. Excellent Novel!
August 19, 2019
Didn’t Like any Characters.
This is one of my favorite authors, but I couldn’t connect with any of characters. None of them were likable to me.
Noah, Dana, and Beckett are friends, and Noah and Dana start dating, they eventually marry.
Beckett is Dana’s best friend. However, Beckett is unstable, jealous and says racist things often.
Noah is white and Dana is black. Dana deals with her self identity, and coming from a different world than Noah. Noah grew up around wealth and with wealth. He seems to love her a little more than she loves him, he pursues her and she is aloof, or appearing to be.
Dana becomes pregnant, but after the baby their lives fall apart. She and Noah are separated when their daughter is abducted.
While we wait on the return of their child you get the story of infidelity, classism, racism, and lost friendships and forgiveness.
If you’re looking for steamy romance this isn’t that type of book outside of words.
Eventually, Noah and Dana have their daughter back and they get back together.
Pros:
Well written
Doesn’t shy away from touchy subjects
Cons:
Dana had no backbone to me. Girl please, why would you take that bum back. Them being back together was ambiguous as well.
The romance was lacking
That woman had no business in their home
I wasn’t feeling the husband or anyone to feel sorry for their plight
This is one of my favorite authors, but I couldn’t connect with any of characters. None of them were likable to me.
Noah, Dana, and Beckett are friends, and Noah and Dana start dating, they eventually marry.
Beckett is Dana’s best friend. However, Beckett is unstable, jealous and says racist things often.
Noah is white and Dana is black. Dana deals with her self identity, and coming from a different world than Noah. Noah grew up around wealth and with wealth. He seems to love her a little more than she loves him, he pursues her and she is aloof, or appearing to be.
Dana becomes pregnant, but after the baby their lives fall apart. She and Noah are separated when their daughter is abducted.
While we wait on the return of their child you get the story of infidelity, classism, racism, and lost friendships and forgiveness.
If you’re looking for steamy romance this isn’t that type of book outside of words.
Eventually, Noah and Dana have their daughter back and they get back together.
Pros:
Well written
Doesn’t shy away from touchy subjects
Cons:
Dana had no backbone to me. Girl please, why would you take that bum back. Them being back together was ambiguous as well.
The romance was lacking
That woman had no business in their home
I wasn’t feeling the husband or anyone to feel sorry for their plight
August 8, 2019
Damn good read!
Let me just say I'm no good at writing reviews and this will be no different...but I literally read this book in one sitting. It was so good, so powerful that thought provoking. I read anything Ms. Forrester writes and I am a huge fan of hers. She's a masterful story teller and her way with words is unmatched.
I have/had a lot in common with Dana. I understood her and yet I felt for Noah. The fabric of their life, marriage is complicated by their differences(race etc), family, friends and lack of proper communication but there is genuine love. Through a parents worse nightmare, things become apparent and are revealed to Dana and she begins to come to terms and grips with the problem in her marriage and more importantly in herself. She forgives, something I still have a hard time with. Together Dana and Noah rebuild but it ain't easy.
I'd love to have Noah's side of the story.
Thank you Ms. Forrester for another awesome read.
Let me just say I'm no good at writing reviews and this will be no different...but I literally read this book in one sitting. It was so good, so powerful that thought provoking. I read anything Ms. Forrester writes and I am a huge fan of hers. She's a masterful story teller and her way with words is unmatched.
I have/had a lot in common with Dana. I understood her and yet I felt for Noah. The fabric of their life, marriage is complicated by their differences(race etc), family, friends and lack of proper communication but there is genuine love. Through a parents worse nightmare, things become apparent and are revealed to Dana and she begins to come to terms and grips with the problem in her marriage and more importantly in herself. She forgives, something I still have a hard time with. Together Dana and Noah rebuild but it ain't easy.
I'd love to have Noah's side of the story.
Thank you Ms. Forrester for another awesome read.
August 8, 2019
Solid
4 stars because Nia Forrester is truly a good writer. I could not give five stars because the kidnapping was too polarizing and not at all relevant to the status of their relationship. I did not care for the flashbacks. Their child was missing. Who cares about racism and the fate of your relationship when your child is missing. Their relationship could’ve been explored without the kidnapping.
4 stars because Nia Forrester is truly a good writer. I could not give five stars because the kidnapping was too polarizing and not at all relevant to the status of their relationship. I did not care for the flashbacks. Their child was missing. Who cares about racism and the fate of your relationship when your child is missing. Their relationship could’ve been explored without the kidnapping.
August 10, 2019
I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical about the storyline. I didn’t think I could connect to the characters. What I was always confident in, however, is Nia’s writing ability so I eagerly purchased and read this book. I didn’t want to like Noah, but I really, really did! I enjoyed the suspense and I’m
(mostly) satisfied by the ending. I love that this story has so many layers. There’s a lot to unpack here.
(mostly) satisfied by the ending. I love that this story has so many layers. There’s a lot to unpack here.
August 19, 2019
Just wow! I never read blurbs of Nia’s books, I just hit buy, so I was very pleasantly surprised by this change of genre for her. While I love a good romance novel, romantic suspense is my second fav, and it was done so well here. The person that I thought was guilty wasn’t at all, so way to keep us on our heels Nia. The suspense was there, the romance was there, the passion was there, this is just a great read from start to finish.
August 11, 2019
This book has an incredible concept, and is well written but fall slightly short, repairing their relationship deserved more attention. Three ⭐️⭐️⭐️ for the story one ⭐️ for her writing style.
August 12, 2019
Title: In Black & White
Author: Nia Forrester
Publisher: Stiletto Press, LLC
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"In Black & White" by Nia Forrester
My Rationalization:
This was a very interesting read that talked about child abduction, interracial marriage[complications], communication & trust [or the lack of it], family, friends, infidelity, forgiveness, and finally a HEA. I will say that this story had some very well developed and defined characters from our hero and heroine to sister [Gwen] mother and father in law [Theresa & the Judge] Samara [their daughter], Detective Lewis and Nelson, Francine [the Nanny], Debra Kozol [neighbor]. Beckett, Tiffany [friends] and Gabriel Croft. I will say with all these characters this author really present us with quite a story that Dana and Noah will really have their hands full to plenty of drama along with a concerned family life along with some mystery, thriller, and suspense.
The story will go from the daughter being abducted with 'harsh judgment of the public' to much trouble going on in this family [I will say that mother-in-law was truly something else. Then we go to a certain friend that I will say somebody was really getting all twisted up with friends, especially one particular one that I could not stand! It was hard reading about this situation because I was hoping to see Dana and Noah realizing that she [Beckett] was no friend. However, in the end, we find out what happened to Samara in that kidnapping situation. I will say I wasn't surprised whom that person was. If the hero and heroine had stopped with all of the fussing I think maybe they would have been to see what was happening right in front of their eyes with that crazy nanny. Oh well, in the end, I still was still out with that mother-in-law. I didn't care for her at all. I think she needs to look at her own family life with that shared husband and his mistress. My thoughts: did Theresa expect her son Noah to do as his father was doing having a mistress on the side? What was up with Theresa and Beckett? I definitely didn't understand that part of the story. Why would she bring up Beckett to Dana at the end of the story? Why would she think Dana wanted to know what was going on in Beckett's life after all she had done in Dana's family. All in all, I still had a problem with Dana being so insecure when for sure Noah loved her. Why would Dana let Noah's family rattle her as much as it did? And I will also say that Noah had some problems that should be addressed.
Oh well, you will just have to pick up "In Black & White" and get all of these questions answered and so much more for the reader.
I will say after all is said and done I did enjoy this story and would recommend it even though I didn't care for some of the racist comments that were well presented in the story but I know that is how things could go when you are in an interracial marriage. Definitely, things were not all 'In Back & White.'
Author: Nia Forrester
Publisher: Stiletto Press, LLC
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"In Black & White" by Nia Forrester
My Rationalization:
This was a very interesting read that talked about child abduction, interracial marriage[complications], communication & trust [or the lack of it], family, friends, infidelity, forgiveness, and finally a HEA. I will say that this story had some very well developed and defined characters from our hero and heroine to sister [Gwen] mother and father in law [Theresa & the Judge] Samara [their daughter], Detective Lewis and Nelson, Francine [the Nanny], Debra Kozol [neighbor]. Beckett, Tiffany [friends] and Gabriel Croft. I will say with all these characters this author really present us with quite a story that Dana and Noah will really have their hands full to plenty of drama along with a concerned family life along with some mystery, thriller, and suspense.
The story will go from the daughter being abducted with 'harsh judgment of the public' to much trouble going on in this family [I will say that mother-in-law was truly something else. Then we go to a certain friend that I will say somebody was really getting all twisted up with friends, especially one particular one that I could not stand! It was hard reading about this situation because I was hoping to see Dana and Noah realizing that she [Beckett] was no friend. However, in the end, we find out what happened to Samara in that kidnapping situation. I will say I wasn't surprised whom that person was. If the hero and heroine had stopped with all of the fussing I think maybe they would have been to see what was happening right in front of their eyes with that crazy nanny. Oh well, in the end, I still was still out with that mother-in-law. I didn't care for her at all. I think she needs to look at her own family life with that shared husband and his mistress. My thoughts: did Theresa expect her son Noah to do as his father was doing having a mistress on the side? What was up with Theresa and Beckett? I definitely didn't understand that part of the story. Why would she bring up Beckett to Dana at the end of the story? Why would she think Dana wanted to know what was going on in Beckett's life after all she had done in Dana's family. All in all, I still had a problem with Dana being so insecure when for sure Noah loved her. Why would Dana let Noah's family rattle her as much as it did? And I will also say that Noah had some problems that should be addressed.
Oh well, you will just have to pick up "In Black & White" and get all of these questions answered and so much more for the reader.
I will say after all is said and done I did enjoy this story and would recommend it even though I didn't care for some of the racist comments that were well presented in the story but I know that is how things could go when you are in an interracial marriage. Definitely, things were not all 'In Back & White.'
August 10, 2019
Not what I expected...
I had all the wrong ideas about this book and honestly, had no intention of reading it. I knew the book was about an interracial couple, but for some reason I thought it was a Black man and a white woman - something I have zero interest in reading about. In addition, there was the whole kidnapping thing. Truth be told, I still haven't gotten over what happened to Keisha and Jay's son Lee, and just couldn't handle another sad story about a child. But this is Nia Forrester and if she's written a book, it's like I HAVE to read it. So I bought the book. Turns out I did the right thing.
The kidnapping is the focus of the story, but then again, it isn't. The kidnapping forces Dana and Noah, to examine their lives and relationship up to this point. Dana worked every single nerve in my body. She has to be the most annoying character that's ever been created. We only see Noah through her eyes, and truth be told, he sounds like he is everything. And she loves him. That was pretty clear to me. But she keeps trying to adapt herself to his environment, instead of just being the person he fell in love with. She gives Beckett way too much access and power. She's sometimes too hyper-sensitive and easily intimidated. So many times I thought, 'either you're gonna be with that White boy or not', but stop being so damn difficult because he's White.
The kidnapping also made Theresa and Gwen take a long look at their relationships with the young Farris's. Difficult conversations were had, which was a good thing. Beckett was quite the character. I never really trusted her. I wish I could say that I was surprised by what happens, but I'd be lying.
I was happy with the way things turned out for Noah and Dana. It was kind of hard to dislike Noah, even after the bad, terrible thing. I'm glad that he didn't rush back in when Dana bares her soul. That will serve them well in the long run.
Hoping to hear more from Gwen and Detective Lewis (wink, wink).
I had all the wrong ideas about this book and honestly, had no intention of reading it. I knew the book was about an interracial couple, but for some reason I thought it was a Black man and a white woman - something I have zero interest in reading about. In addition, there was the whole kidnapping thing. Truth be told, I still haven't gotten over what happened to Keisha and Jay's son Lee, and just couldn't handle another sad story about a child. But this is Nia Forrester and if she's written a book, it's like I HAVE to read it. So I bought the book. Turns out I did the right thing.
The kidnapping is the focus of the story, but then again, it isn't. The kidnapping forces Dana and Noah, to examine their lives and relationship up to this point. Dana worked every single nerve in my body. She has to be the most annoying character that's ever been created. We only see Noah through her eyes, and truth be told, he sounds like he is everything. And she loves him. That was pretty clear to me. But she keeps trying to adapt herself to his environment, instead of just being the person he fell in love with. She gives Beckett way too much access and power. She's sometimes too hyper-sensitive and easily intimidated. So many times I thought, 'either you're gonna be with that White boy or not', but stop being so damn difficult because he's White.
The kidnapping also made Theresa and Gwen take a long look at their relationships with the young Farris's. Difficult conversations were had, which was a good thing. Beckett was quite the character. I never really trusted her. I wish I could say that I was surprised by what happens, but I'd be lying.
I was happy with the way things turned out for Noah and Dana. It was kind of hard to dislike Noah, even after the bad, terrible thing. I'm glad that he didn't rush back in when Dana bares her soul. That will serve them well in the long run.
Hoping to hear more from Gwen and Detective Lewis (wink, wink).
September 5, 2019
4.5 stars
IN BLACK & WHITE by Nia Forrester is another highly commendable addition to her catalogue. She offers some thoughtful insights about privilege and interracial relationships in this book about a separated couple living the nightmare of having their child abducted.
The book splits its focus between the tension of not knowing what’s happened to your child, the friction of a couple experiencing a strained relationship and the pensiveness of a character questioning her understanding of her life and the choices she’s made.
Dana’s contemplation about her relationship with Noah through self-reflection and conversations she has with others are what makes this book for me. It’s weighty and deep and kept me turning those pages.
What stops me from giving this book five stars is the abduction storyline. I felt its inclusion stretched the book too thinly. I understand it acts as a catalyst for Dana and Noah’s current indecisiveness but it’s a lot to tackle in a book that’s already substantial. Perhaps my lack of investment in the abduction storyline also stems from me guessing who abducted Samara early on.
I highly recommend IN BLACK & WHITE. For me, Forrester is a leader at writing about relationships in romance fiction.
IN BLACK & WHITE by Nia Forrester is another highly commendable addition to her catalogue. She offers some thoughtful insights about privilege and interracial relationships in this book about a separated couple living the nightmare of having their child abducted.
The book splits its focus between the tension of not knowing what’s happened to your child, the friction of a couple experiencing a strained relationship and the pensiveness of a character questioning her understanding of her life and the choices she’s made.
Dana’s contemplation about her relationship with Noah through self-reflection and conversations she has with others are what makes this book for me. It’s weighty and deep and kept me turning those pages.
What stops me from giving this book five stars is the abduction storyline. I felt its inclusion stretched the book too thinly. I understand it acts as a catalyst for Dana and Noah’s current indecisiveness but it’s a lot to tackle in a book that’s already substantial. Perhaps my lack of investment in the abduction storyline also stems from me guessing who abducted Samara early on.
I highly recommend IN BLACK & WHITE. For me, Forrester is a leader at writing about relationships in romance fiction.
August 21, 2019
Dana is woman who has several crisis's in her life. She is estranged from her husband. Her life seems to be spilling out of control. The love of her life is taken from her. A media circus ensues and then she has flashbacks of her life that brings her to this point.
Her marriage seems to be a relationship that was built on differences but we find that it was actually based on love. Dana begins to search her soul for answers.
Dana has a husband of another race and people have not been kind to her along the way. She even discovers that a so-called friend, betrays her in the worse way. However the light bulb goes on for her when her mother in law asks her if maybe the problems began with her distances within her marriage.
What do you do when you find that a person you have sacrificed so much and almost lost yourself in addition to those you love? Her sister Gwen plays a key role in helping her find her way back to herself.
This was a different read from this author, but it keeps you turning the page to see what happens next.
Her marriage seems to be a relationship that was built on differences but we find that it was actually based on love. Dana begins to search her soul for answers.
Dana has a husband of another race and people have not been kind to her along the way. She even discovers that a so-called friend, betrays her in the worse way. However the light bulb goes on for her when her mother in law asks her if maybe the problems began with her distances within her marriage.
What do you do when you find that a person you have sacrificed so much and almost lost yourself in addition to those you love? Her sister Gwen plays a key role in helping her find her way back to herself.
This was a different read from this author, but it keeps you turning the page to see what happens next.
August 9, 2019
Very well written
Dana is angry at herself for loving her husband Noah. Dana is angry for loving Noah her white rich husband who comes from a life of privilege. She starts to resent the fact that she actually enjoyidb the privileges of this life and takes this anger out on her husband in a passive aggressive way. The birth of their a beautiful occasion that should have brought them closer together but a drunken subtle comment from a friend forms another wedge between Dana and Noah.
After the abduction of Dana and Noah's baby girl Samara will it bring them closer together or tear them apart. Who took little Samara, was it the woman whom Noah had the affair with, was it a stranger, was it someone close to the family?
This book was extense from beginning to end, there is so much to talk about.
Nia did her thing with this book, wasn't sure what to expect but I totally loved what I got.5 stars and t totally recommend this book
Dana is angry at herself for loving her husband Noah. Dana is angry for loving Noah her white rich husband who comes from a life of privilege. She starts to resent the fact that she actually enjoyidb the privileges of this life and takes this anger out on her husband in a passive aggressive way. The birth of their a beautiful occasion that should have brought them closer together but a drunken subtle comment from a friend forms another wedge between Dana and Noah.
After the abduction of Dana and Noah's baby girl Samara will it bring them closer together or tear them apart. Who took little Samara, was it the woman whom Noah had the affair with, was it a stranger, was it someone close to the family?
This book was extense from beginning to end, there is so much to talk about.
Nia did her thing with this book, wasn't sure what to expect but I totally loved what I got.5 stars and t totally recommend this book
August 20, 2019
Excellent read
Amazing story of overcoming infidelity, the fright of a kidnapped child, the betrayal of a friend, forgiveness. Beckett was a selfish woman and so was Noah. Noah could've been remorseful after the first time of committing adulterated acts, but no...several times. That's several times he could've told his wife how he felt. Several he could've asked for marriage counseling. Several times he betrayed his wife and his friend. Dana was too forgiving for my taste, but who am I to judge. I didn't appreciate that Theresa knew and sided with Beckett and keeping the secret. Just shameful all around. The judge had two faces...smh. Dana was too accepting of it all...way too accepting. If she hadn't had Samara then he would've continued and why is it that Dan wasn't told about the infidelity? Would've love to hear his perspective on this.
Amazing story of overcoming infidelity, the fright of a kidnapped child, the betrayal of a friend, forgiveness. Beckett was a selfish woman and so was Noah. Noah could've been remorseful after the first time of committing adulterated acts, but no...several times. That's several times he could've told his wife how he felt. Several he could've asked for marriage counseling. Several times he betrayed his wife and his friend. Dana was too forgiving for my taste, but who am I to judge. I didn't appreciate that Theresa knew and sided with Beckett and keeping the secret. Just shameful all around. The judge had two faces...smh. Dana was too accepting of it all...way too accepting. If she hadn't had Samara then he would've continued and why is it that Dan wasn't told about the infidelity? Would've love to hear his perspective on this.
August 11, 2019
Seeing things differently...
Wow...this author has a way of showing humanity with all of the flaws we all have, but somehow showing the redemption we all can attain aw well. I wanted to hate different characters for different reasons but it as the story unfolded I began to understand those same characters, and realize that if I were in their position I’d probably make the same mistakes. I’m almost in disbelief that I am not mad at the outcome. Sometimes we want justice to look a certain way in books and get upset when it doesn’t happen the way we want it. After finishing the last page and soul searching, I love the way it ended...especially the last line. Bravo! This book definitely made me more open minded.👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 5 stars for sure!
Wow...this author has a way of showing humanity with all of the flaws we all have, but somehow showing the redemption we all can attain aw well. I wanted to hate different characters for different reasons but it as the story unfolded I began to understand those same characters, and realize that if I were in their position I’d probably make the same mistakes. I’m almost in disbelief that I am not mad at the outcome. Sometimes we want justice to look a certain way in books and get upset when it doesn’t happen the way we want it. After finishing the last page and soul searching, I love the way it ended...especially the last line. Bravo! This book definitely made me more open minded.👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 5 stars for sure!
August 20, 2019
I need blood pressure meds ASAP!!!! The angst came from two different angles and the author makes it known very early on, so you have to watch (or rather read) the angsty journey as it unfolds, both past and present, of the main characters. As I mentioned already, this is a anxiety inducing story, but such is all stories by Nia “the habitual book rules line stepper” Forrester and honestly I look forward to it every time she releases a book. I also try to make sure to keep blood pressure meds on standby. This particular book will definitely give me a book hangover for a while.
Notice I didn’t give you any direct comment about the story or characters? Yeah, I did that on purpose. Go in blind with this one...but have anxiety meds on standby.
Notice I didn’t give you any direct comment about the story or characters? Yeah, I did that on purpose. Go in blind with this one...but have anxiety meds on standby.
August 22, 2019
I didn’t want it to end!!!
Nia Forrester does it again. I absolutely loved this book. It gave me a glimpse into the world of things an interracial may endure. I experienced a wide range of emotions while reading this. The verbiage used to paint seemed almost too realistic. Dana, annoyed me at times but I also has sympathy for her. I understand her in so many levels bc black women who are immersed in white culture constantly struggle with toeing the line of trying to fit in. Noah wanted to support his wife but was so used to his life that sometimes he was blind to who she was. Beckett was so out of control and deserved a good punch in the face.
Overall, I didnt want this book to end because I loved this couple so very much.
Nia Forrester does it again. I absolutely loved this book. It gave me a glimpse into the world of things an interracial may endure. I experienced a wide range of emotions while reading this. The verbiage used to paint seemed almost too realistic. Dana, annoyed me at times but I also has sympathy for her. I understand her in so many levels bc black women who are immersed in white culture constantly struggle with toeing the line of trying to fit in. Noah wanted to support his wife but was so used to his life that sometimes he was blind to who she was. Beckett was so out of control and deserved a good punch in the face.
Overall, I didnt want this book to end because I loved this couple so very much.
September 24, 2019
This is the first book that I've ever read from this author, which happened by accident. I was about to name one of my characters Nia Forrester, and having an itch that I knew the name already, I Googled it.
I.... cannot...beLIEVE... that I am just... now... getting around to reading... this author. Like....WHAT?!?
I love that feeling when you start a book and not only is it good, it's RIGHT. And you're like, "YES. This is it. Now I am home." And you know instantly that you will not be doing laundry, and probably phoning in dinner, because you will be giving away the next few hours of your life drifting away on storytelling waters. In a canoe of prose.
Anyways, basically I really enjoyed this book and I recommend it highly to anyone who loves realism with their romance.
I.... cannot...beLIEVE... that I am just... now... getting around to reading... this author. Like....WHAT?!?
I love that feeling when you start a book and not only is it good, it's RIGHT. And you're like, "YES. This is it. Now I am home." And you know instantly that you will not be doing laundry, and probably phoning in dinner, because you will be giving away the next few hours of your life drifting away on storytelling waters. In a canoe of prose.
Anyways, basically I really enjoyed this book and I recommend it highly to anyone who loves realism with their romance.
August 13, 2019
This is a good story , I always know when I pick up a book, by this author that my stomach will be in knots . I couldn’t relax while reading , wondering if the baby would be found , and would she be okay. Samara was so real to me , I immediately fell in love with her and wanted her to be safe. Dana ,was a entirely different woman, I’m not sure if I believed her love for Noah , nor did I buy her friendship with Becky and yes I do mean Becky . Noah though not perfect , I found ,I liked him the most that I really wanted to know his point of view . As the story ended I wasn’t sure I got the whole story ,but what was written left me feeling okay .
August 11, 2019
Blown Away
This book was amazingly good. I no longer read thrillers because I don't think my heart can take the suspense but I couldn't not read a book by Nia Forrester.
The story touches on love, fear, honesty, interracial marriages and friendship and so many more emotions that I myself had to take several emotional breaks to get through this read.
Nia's writing is so good that I felt their pain as if I was the one experiencing such a tragedy.
It has taught me that no matter how much someone loves you, you have to truly love yourself and believe that your worthy for the relationship to work.
Overall worth every minute of your time.
This book was amazingly good. I no longer read thrillers because I don't think my heart can take the suspense but I couldn't not read a book by Nia Forrester.
The story touches on love, fear, honesty, interracial marriages and friendship and so many more emotions that I myself had to take several emotional breaks to get through this read.
Nia's writing is so good that I felt their pain as if I was the one experiencing such a tragedy.
It has taught me that no matter how much someone loves you, you have to truly love yourself and believe that your worthy for the relationship to work.
Overall worth every minute of your time.
August 14, 2019
Where the blame lies...
Framed by a child abduction playing out over the course of the story, this book examined so many layers including race, interpersonal relationships, marriage, infidelity, coping mechanisms, and forgiveness. I wasn't prepared when it ended. It actually caught me by surprise. I always try to leave spoilers out of my reviews, but I will say each party played a role in the situation they found themselves in. And I didn't see one party being more responsible than the other. What an eye opening read, with a message for anyone who chooses to take the journey!
Framed by a child abduction playing out over the course of the story, this book examined so many layers including race, interpersonal relationships, marriage, infidelity, coping mechanisms, and forgiveness. I wasn't prepared when it ended. It actually caught me by surprise. I always try to leave spoilers out of my reviews, but I will say each party played a role in the situation they found themselves in. And I didn't see one party being more responsible than the other. What an eye opening read, with a message for anyone who chooses to take the journey!
August 11, 2019
Excellent page turner
Nia Forrester out performed herself with this one. There are so many layers - racism, classism, blurred lines between relationships and the stereotypes we project on others and ourselves based on our own internal struggles with society and where we fit in it. Then, she added the layer of mystery. I couldn’t put this book down and will likely read it again after hitting send on this review. Congrats on delivering another great read, Nia!
Nia Forrester out performed herself with this one. There are so many layers - racism, classism, blurred lines between relationships and the stereotypes we project on others and ourselves based on our own internal struggles with society and where we fit in it. Then, she added the layer of mystery. I couldn’t put this book down and will likely read it again after hitting send on this review. Congrats on delivering another great read, Nia!
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