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The Shorts #9
Resistance: A Love Story
Kai is an accidental activist, drawn to protest only because the alternative—to not protest—feels unimaginable in a turbulent time like this.
And Lila is a longtime social justice warrior. At least in theory.
Trying to find their footing and independent voices in the middle of a new movement, they just might find something else—a new love.
And Lila is a longtime social justice warrior. At least in theory.
Trying to find their footing and independent voices in the middle of a new movement, they just might find something else—a new love.
88 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 24, 2020
About the author
Nia Forrester
56 books1,000 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 64 reviews
October 31, 2020
For those who might be interested in a Black "how they met" romance short grounded in the 2020 protests, this one is really good. Forrester packed a lot into a short piece, including full and rich personalities for both the female and male main characters. I'm glad I stumbled across it and will definitely be checking out more of her work.
November 15, 2023
One of the best novellas I’ve ever read! Kai and Lila meet after they get arrested at a Black Lives Matter march. He immediately knows she’s the person he’s going to marry one day, whereas she’s much more hesitant about him. This perfectly mirrors their personalities and the emotional arc of this story. While the author easily could have expanded this into a full-length book, the tight focus on the day they meet worked incredibly well. She also manages to tackle a lot of important issues ranging from differing opinions about activism and protests to the complexity of interracial parenting and relationships. Kai and Lila develop a strong connection over the course of the day. I loved the complexity of their conversations as they get to know each other. It ends with a promising HFN and I feel very sure about their future together.
This is set in May/June 2020 as the George Floyd protests began, although I don’t think Floyd’s name is ever mentioned. It’s very much a slice of life at that time but could just as easily be set at any point in the last three years. Police brutality still continues, as does the pandemic. The lack of specificity worked fine for me but I’m not sure how it would work for people outside the US who are less familiar with the protests. The pandemic is lightly touched on—there are some references to social distancing and people wearing face coverings but Kai and Lila don’t ever negotiate these things. Maybe it doesn’t matter since they were protesting and then in jail and social distancing guidelines weren’t followed there. But when I think back to that time, mask-wearing and social distancing was the first discussion I had with anyone I saw so I’m noting it for anyone for whom that’s important.
Characters: Kai is a biracial college senior. Lila is a Black activist and college student. This appears to be set in Philadelphia, PA.
Content notes: police violence, racism, physical assault, arrested at protest march, tear gas, COVID-19, missing wallet, formerly incarcerated secondary character (juvenile case, he stood watch during robbery and murder), past death of secondary character’s brothers (one brother killed by police), past death of MMC’s grandfather, alcohol, cigarettes (secondary character), marijuana reference, gendered pejorative, ableist language
This is set in May/June 2020 as the George Floyd protests began, although I don’t think Floyd’s name is ever mentioned. It’s very much a slice of life at that time but could just as easily be set at any point in the last three years. Police brutality still continues, as does the pandemic. The lack of specificity worked fine for me but I’m not sure how it would work for people outside the US who are less familiar with the protests. The pandemic is lightly touched on—there are some references to social distancing and people wearing face coverings but Kai and Lila don’t ever negotiate these things. Maybe it doesn’t matter since they were protesting and then in jail and social distancing guidelines weren’t followed there. But when I think back to that time, mask-wearing and social distancing was the first discussion I had with anyone I saw so I’m noting it for anyone for whom that’s important.
Characters: Kai is a biracial college senior. Lila is a Black activist and college student. This appears to be set in Philadelphia, PA.
Content notes: police violence, racism, physical assault, arrested at protest march, tear gas, COVID-19, missing wallet, formerly incarcerated secondary character (juvenile case, he stood watch during robbery and murder), past death of secondary character’s brothers (one brother killed by police), past death of MMC’s grandfather, alcohol, cigarettes (secondary character), marijuana reference, gendered pejorative, ableist language
November 15, 2023
This was an excellent novella that takes place at a Black Lives Matter protest, between two young protestors. Lila is a more seasoned political activists, while Kai is not. It’s written in dual POV, and it was interesting to see their thoughts about activism and racism, and how their backgrounds inform who they are. The budding romance was lovely and believable. Recommended!
June 25, 2020
This book right here.
It's a pandemic and revolution and fight for justice and a grappling of coming of age. And it's a love story. This book kind of reminds of how people curl their top lip when you ask how there could be love stories set in the time of enslavement. Or during Reconstruction or Civil Rights. We have nothing, if we don't have each other. And having each other helps us get through things.
It's a pandemic and revolution and fight for justice and a grappling of coming of age. And it's a love story. This book kind of reminds of how people curl their top lip when you ask how there could be love stories set in the time of enslavement. Or during Reconstruction or Civil Rights. We have nothing, if we don't have each other. And having each other helps us get through things.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2020
Resistance was futile
The short features a ripped from the headlines type of love story. Racial tension, young advocates and those wanting to effect change were this stories manifestations. Two college aged would be activist struggling with their attraction, and the resistance moving across their city. Race was a factor in the story, yet it was discreetly managed from varying points of view for interracial couples and race relations in 2020. A timely story....
The short features a ripped from the headlines type of love story. Racial tension, young advocates and those wanting to effect change were this stories manifestations. Two college aged would be activist struggling with their attraction, and the resistance moving across their city. Race was a factor in the story, yet it was discreetly managed from varying points of view for interracial couples and race relations in 2020. A timely story....
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March 15, 2025Excellent novella (novelette?) about finding unexpected connection during a May 2020 protest march.
July 1, 2020
First and foremost I wanna applaud Nia for doing this for the culture. This book takes place now, in our current time, under the current distress the nation is in. Lila and Kai meet while protesting and although that isn’t typically where one would search for their soulmate, it’s pretty believable for the current state we are in. Their pull was magnetic and almost instant. “I met my wife in jail today. I know it sounds crazy but for real, I‘ma marry this girl.”
This read is peppered with a lot harsh realities and a few complicated issues we may sometimes avoid, but it doesn’t take away from the actual story. It‘s a short story, but it gives you just enough story to hold your interest and not leave you feeling incomplete. The realistic setting is what definitely made this a must read for me, the love story was lagniappe.
This read is peppered with a lot harsh realities and a few complicated issues we may sometimes avoid, but it doesn’t take away from the actual story. It‘s a short story, but it gives you just enough story to hold your interest and not leave you feeling incomplete. The realistic setting is what definitely made this a must read for me, the love story was lagniappe.
October 31, 2020
I enjoy this author so much , that I really don’t like it when she writes short stories, Wait a minute let me explain ! Her protagonists are always people I want to explore more than the pages of a short story can provide Kai and Lila are the prime example. Why can’t I read more about this couple, their backstories are ripe for a full story . Come on Nia , give us more.
August 13, 2025
This was a refreshing, cute, and quick love story. I’ve been reading this series since it first came out in book form, so listening on Audible was such a nice reminder. The narrators were perfect, bringing the characters and their passion for justice to life. When two worlds collide, sometimes you find not only your purpose, but also your person the one who makes the fight easier while keeping you grounded and relevant.
SIDENOTE (aka “Don’t come for my stars!”):
Just a quick heads-up my ratings are based on whether I’d reread the book or add it to my personal collection, not the quality of the story itself. So here’s how I roll:
5 🤩 = I’m obsessed with everything the storyline, the author, and the narrators! I read it yearly and own ALL the copies: physical, digital, and Audible. I can basically recite this book. It lives in my private library.
4 🌟 = Loved the story, the author, and the narrator (if it’s audio). I’d happily reread it when I need a solid comfort read.
3 ✨ = Enjoyed the story, the author, and definitely the narrators. A great addition to my yearly reading challenge likely to revisit if it’s part of a series I need to refresh.
SIDENOTE (aka “Don’t come for my stars!”):
Just a quick heads-up my ratings are based on whether I’d reread the book or add it to my personal collection, not the quality of the story itself. So here’s how I roll:
5 🤩 = I’m obsessed with everything the storyline, the author, and the narrators! I read it yearly and own ALL the copies: physical, digital, and Audible. I can basically recite this book. It lives in my private library.
4 🌟 = Loved the story, the author, and the narrator (if it’s audio). I’d happily reread it when I need a solid comfort read.
3 ✨ = Enjoyed the story, the author, and definitely the narrators. A great addition to my yearly reading challenge likely to revisit if it’s part of a series I need to refresh.
July 27, 2020
Remembering the time
It’s a weird time, 2020, and Nia manages to remind of us what’s going on in the real world while also giving us a little romance.
It’s a weird time, 2020, and Nia manages to remind of us what’s going on in the real world while also giving us a little romance.
July 27, 2020
Resistance: A 💘 Story (The Shorts Book 9)
An 88 page short. Refreshing read about two young people who meet at A Black Lives Matter rally in Washington, D.C. Social justice warriors. Her name is Lila & his name is Kai.
7/28/2020.
An 88 page short. Refreshing read about two young people who meet at A Black Lives Matter rally in Washington, D.C. Social justice warriors. Her name is Lila & his name is Kai.
7/28/2020.
March 21, 2021
Wow. This is my perfect ideal romance and I typically have super high expectations for novellas. This is a the beginnings of a love formed during the height of the BLM protests and I loved it so much! I felt the authenticity of the characters and their love story. More people should know about this and read it!!
August 15, 2020
This was short but such a good read. I learned a bit about the characters but yearned for more; them as individuals and as a unit. I hope in the future Nia will tell us more about Kia and Lila.
One thing I’ll say about interracial couples, especially those that have children, they need to be willing to have those tough convos on race and injustices. Their partner does a disservice by trying to shield them from reality, no matter how harsh. And the partners that don’t usually faces the injustices should not allow their partner to give them an out. True, they may not be able to fully understand but they should share that burden. And not learning about what happens and the full impact and toll it can have their partner, children and others that have to endure the bs, as well as not trying to make changes mean they are part of the problem.
The story had so many emotions bc of the topic. And bc of my location my thoughts were George Floyd but this crap happens so often that it can apply to so many tragedies that have occurred and unfortunately those that are to come.
One thing I’ll say about interracial couples, especially those that have children, they need to be willing to have those tough convos on race and injustices. Their partner does a disservice by trying to shield them from reality, no matter how harsh. And the partners that don’t usually faces the injustices should not allow their partner to give them an out. True, they may not be able to fully understand but they should share that burden. And not learning about what happens and the full impact and toll it can have their partner, children and others that have to endure the bs, as well as not trying to make changes mean they are part of the problem.
The story had so many emotions bc of the topic. And bc of my location my thoughts were George Floyd but this crap happens so often that it can apply to so many tragedies that have occurred and unfortunately those that are to come.
June 27, 2020
What a storyteller!
I saw someone issue a challenge to authors to write something based on Rep. Clyburn’s story of meeting his wife in jail, and I was delighted to see that this author would be doing just that in this book.
For once, I’m glad this was a short, because I could not put this one down. Kai and Lila were such captivating characters; similar, yet different in the best possible, most complementary way. And the way Ms. Forrester brought them to life and gave us insight to their family dynamics, while allowing us to experience the sights and sounds of the protests, is storytelling at its finest.
Nia Forrester continues to amaze. Do yourself a favor and read this book.
I saw someone issue a challenge to authors to write something based on Rep. Clyburn’s story of meeting his wife in jail, and I was delighted to see that this author would be doing just that in this book.
For once, I’m glad this was a short, because I could not put this one down. Kai and Lila were such captivating characters; similar, yet different in the best possible, most complementary way. And the way Ms. Forrester brought them to life and gave us insight to their family dynamics, while allowing us to experience the sights and sounds of the protests, is storytelling at its finest.
Nia Forrester continues to amaze. Do yourself a favor and read this book.
June 1, 2026
✨ The Resistance ✨
I really enjoyed this novella. Kai and Lila meeting after getting arrested at a Black Lives Matter protest immediately pulled me in. Kai knowing almost instantly that Lila was it for him while she was much more hesitant fit their personalities perfectly. ✨
Kai was such a gentleman, and I really appreciated that during a time like this he intentionally chose to love a Black woman when society could have so easily, as a mixed kid, swayed him another way. There was something really beautiful about that. ✨
I also found myself relating to Lila because I’ve come across girls like Tiana before... the kind who try to strong-arm you into doing things you genuinely don’t want to do. I was so happy that Lila chose something different for herself instead of following the crowd.
What I loved most was how much depth Nia managed to fit into such a short story. The conversations around activism, interracial relationships, and being Black in America felt real and layered without feeling preachy. Kai and Lila’s connection developed so naturally throughout the day that I honestly forgot this was only a novella. I also enjoyed how there was no sex in this story, and again Kai being a gman when miss mamas took a shower! 😭
I also appreciated that Nia was clearly referring to the George Floyd protests and that period of time without directly mentioning him by name. I thought that was such a tasteful touch because you immediately understood the weight and emotion behind everything without it feeling overly explicit.
The story felt raw, emotional, and intimate all at once, and once again Nia reminded me why I enjoy her writing so much.
I really enjoyed this novella. Kai and Lila meeting after getting arrested at a Black Lives Matter protest immediately pulled me in. Kai knowing almost instantly that Lila was it for him while she was much more hesitant fit their personalities perfectly. ✨
Kai was such a gentleman, and I really appreciated that during a time like this he intentionally chose to love a Black woman when society could have so easily, as a mixed kid, swayed him another way. There was something really beautiful about that. ✨
I also found myself relating to Lila because I’ve come across girls like Tiana before... the kind who try to strong-arm you into doing things you genuinely don’t want to do. I was so happy that Lila chose something different for herself instead of following the crowd.
What I loved most was how much depth Nia managed to fit into such a short story. The conversations around activism, interracial relationships, and being Black in America felt real and layered without feeling preachy. Kai and Lila’s connection developed so naturally throughout the day that I honestly forgot this was only a novella. I also enjoyed how there was no sex in this story, and again Kai being a gman when miss mamas took a shower! 😭
I also appreciated that Nia was clearly referring to the George Floyd protests and that period of time without directly mentioning him by name. I thought that was such a tasteful touch because you immediately understood the weight and emotion behind everything without it feeling overly explicit.
The story felt raw, emotional, and intimate all at once, and once again Nia reminded me why I enjoy her writing so much.
July 3, 2020
Nia has the gift!
Nia keeps it real...literally and figuratively with this short. It is definitely a timely piece to address some of the feelings one faces in current times in the context of George Floyd's horrific death and the world's outrage. Nia was able to describe each moment realistically and her strength remains in character development. Kai gave me all the feels and while others may perceive him as weak with him being biracial, his strength was knowing himself and his limitations. Lila witnesses it and began to evolve in her own strength. Makes me side eye her "friend". Again Nia's works always give you pause to ponder. Thanks again in your delivery.
Nia keeps it real...literally and figuratively with this short. It is definitely a timely piece to address some of the feelings one faces in current times in the context of George Floyd's horrific death and the world's outrage. Nia was able to describe each moment realistically and her strength remains in character development. Kai gave me all the feels and while others may perceive him as weak with him being biracial, his strength was knowing himself and his limitations. Lila witnesses it and began to evolve in her own strength. Makes me side eye her "friend". Again Nia's works always give you pause to ponder. Thanks again in your delivery.
August 27, 2021
The first paragraph of this novella, "I met wife in my jail today. I know it sounds crazy but for real, I'ma marry this girl," lays out the premise: a meet-cute at a Black Lives Matter protest arrest.
But while this worked well for me as as a story about two people connecting, it's also, especially given its length, a very nuanced examination of how you decide where you stand in turbulent times, and how your family and friends pull or push you in different directions. And how events sometimes give you no choice.
I thought it was absolutely fantastic. My first from Nia Forrester, will definitely be reading more.
But while this worked well for me as as a story about two people connecting, it's also, especially given its length, a very nuanced examination of how you decide where you stand in turbulent times, and how your family and friends pull or push you in different directions. And how events sometimes give you no choice.
I thought it was absolutely fantastic. My first from Nia Forrester, will definitely be reading more.
January 26, 2022
don’t resist
Lila and Kai were trying to figure out their places and voices during a crucial time in the protests of 2020. How much do they devote themselves to the cause and at what capacity? What level of commitment was good with them?
Kai, being half white but identified as a black man, was trying to reconcile how he rides the fringe of the movement but wanted to do more.
Lila was best friends with a very self-assured and vocal activist who was down for whatever and expected those who rolled with her to be on the same wave. Lila feelings and voice was always minimized and overlooked because of it.
Somehow these two connect on such a strong level that they can’t resist each other within the resistance.
Great read!
Lila and Kai were trying to figure out their places and voices during a crucial time in the protests of 2020. How much do they devote themselves to the cause and at what capacity? What level of commitment was good with them?
Kai, being half white but identified as a black man, was trying to reconcile how he rides the fringe of the movement but wanted to do more.
Lila was best friends with a very self-assured and vocal activist who was down for whatever and expected those who rolled with her to be on the same wave. Lila feelings and voice was always minimized and overlooked because of it.
Somehow these two connect on such a strong level that they can’t resist each other within the resistance.
Great read!
July 6, 2020
Nia Forrester has the uncanny knack for writing stories that seems to highlight the human interaction and imposing nuances that are present in and important to any relationship.
Kai and Lila are clearly opposite in their beliefs and life experiences, but where brought together in the most serendipitous moment of their lives.
The time Kai and Lila spent together was effortless and beautiful such they touched the soul of one another to the point the already claimed each other in their respective future.
It may have been a short, but it was an excellent read!
Kai and Lila are clearly opposite in their beliefs and life experiences, but where brought together in the most serendipitous moment of their lives.
The time Kai and Lila spent together was effortless and beautiful such they touched the soul of one another to the point the already claimed each other in their respective future.
It may have been a short, but it was an excellent read!
July 12, 2020
Perfect Timing
What a sweet and oh so relevant book that is perfect during these days of civil unrest. The book is about two young people who get involved almost immediately after seeing "the tape. " However as the day goes on th two must decide whether or not to continue . The book speaks to being young and making decisions that speak to your own upbringing and ultimately staying true to who you really are and your own personal goals which may or may not always align to others.
What a sweet and oh so relevant book that is perfect during these days of civil unrest. The book is about two young people who get involved almost immediately after seeing "the tape. " However as the day goes on th two must decide whether or not to continue . The book speaks to being young and making decisions that speak to your own upbringing and ultimately staying true to who you really are and your own personal goals which may or may not always align to others.
September 14, 2020
I love everything about this story...
This story of young love in the midst of turmoil warms my heart. These two young people mirror millions of young men and women's life journey in these trying times. A tale of two young people who have been deeply affected by tragic acts compelled to DO SOMETHING about the injustices in the city...country...world they live in. Their similarities and differences draw them together into a beautifully woven story of trust and values and Black Love.
It would be a treat to see more of their journey...
This story of young love in the midst of turmoil warms my heart. These two young people mirror millions of young men and women's life journey in these trying times. A tale of two young people who have been deeply affected by tragic acts compelled to DO SOMETHING about the injustices in the city...country...world they live in. Their similarities and differences draw them together into a beautifully woven story of trust and values and Black Love.
It would be a treat to see more of their journey...
June 26, 2020
While protesting for the horrible injustice of a black man dying at the hands of the police (again), Kai and Lila see each other and there is instant connection. They feel a personnel responsibility to not be on the sidelines, but to be a part of the uproar sweeping across the country and across the world to demand justice and change. Kai and Lila's story is lovely and sweet. I always enjoy Nia's stories, and this is one no different.
July 4, 2020
Superb ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bravo🤗. Thank you Nia for writing about Kai and Lila!! I must admit I was scared to read this book. I’m such an empath and with so much going on right now I didn’t know if I could withstand it. Now I’m mad that I waited so long. I really enjoyed how well the story was written ,the depth of emotions and feelings were so real. I would love to see more of these characters.
Bravo🤗. Thank you Nia for writing about Kai and Lila!! I must admit I was scared to read this book. I’m such an empath and with so much going on right now I didn’t know if I could withstand it. Now I’m mad that I waited so long. I really enjoyed how well the story was written ,the depth of emotions and feelings were so real. I would love to see more of these characters.
July 5, 2020
Timely
Hopefully timeless. More than visualizing these characters I could feel them. There need to do something then questioning what else was so real. The supporting cast in this short purposefully shed light on the whys of other people’s actions and purposes. There was hope in everybody’s story including a future for the narrators. Happy the author took the time to pen this one.
Hopefully timeless. More than visualizing these characters I could feel them. There need to do something then questioning what else was so real. The supporting cast in this short purposefully shed light on the whys of other people’s actions and purposes. There was hope in everybody’s story including a future for the narrators. Happy the author took the time to pen this one.
August 17, 2020
Wonderful short!! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Resistance: A Love Story, this is Kai and Lila's story. This a story of the beginning of a new love and also fighting for what's right for you. The title Resistance, has more than one meaning in this story. Standing up for what you believe in. Choosing your particular way to do it. Kai and Lila were practically strangers but they defied others to get to know each other. Will Lamar have a story?🙋🏾♀️
Resistance: A Love Story, this is Kai and Lila's story. This a story of the beginning of a new love and also fighting for what's right for you. The title Resistance, has more than one meaning in this story. Standing up for what you believe in. Choosing your particular way to do it. Kai and Lila were practically strangers but they defied others to get to know each other. Will Lamar have a story?🙋🏾♀️
September 24, 2020
Resistance
A very good complex read that presented another perspective on the climate of today's protests. Kai and Lila meetup during a protest upheaval that left both getting arrested. Afterwards, a conversation revealed to both, different sides of the struggles from totally different viewpoints and reasonings.
The love angle was an innocent one that both Lila and Kai sensed.
This was a well written story that I did enjoy reading
A very good complex read that presented another perspective on the climate of today's protests. Kai and Lila meetup during a protest upheaval that left both getting arrested. Afterwards, a conversation revealed to both, different sides of the struggles from totally different viewpoints and reasonings.
The love angle was an innocent one that both Lila and Kai sensed.
This was a well written story that I did enjoy reading
July 27, 2025
Tethered
Interesting 🧐‼️…Tethered by a social injustice awareness campaign or more so a dissident platform against urban profiling & universal police brutality. Militantly apropos 🎶 “Fight The Power”🤭✊🏾” 🎶…until you’ve exhausted reasonable constraints & or justice’s fight becomes just us…good night 🥰🤷🏾♀️‼️ “Resistance: A Love Story (The Short series ) - # 9” Lila & Kai’s journey was a great read‼️
Interesting 🧐‼️…Tethered by a social injustice awareness campaign or more so a dissident platform against urban profiling & universal police brutality. Militantly apropos 🎶 “Fight The Power”🤭✊🏾” 🎶…until you’ve exhausted reasonable constraints & or justice’s fight becomes just us…good night 🥰🤷🏾♀️‼️ “Resistance: A Love Story (The Short series ) - # 9” Lila & Kai’s journey was a great read‼️
June 30, 2020
Great Story teller
Nia Forrester is an amazing writer and storyteller. The timing of Kia and Lila's love story was dead on with our current fight for justice. A brief glimpse in a crowd during a protest connects these two emotionally to each other . A short story with a powerful punch.
Nia Forrester is an amazing writer and storyteller. The timing of Kia and Lila's love story was dead on with our current fight for justice. A brief glimpse in a crowd during a protest connects these two emotionally to each other . A short story with a powerful punch.
July 15, 2020
Look forward
I love how Ms Forrester captured the mood of thre reaction after George Floyd's murder. It didn't seem preachy and it captured the varying moods we had (still have). I also like how she included the interracial couple aspect of the issue. I know some couples who are talking but there are some who ignore. I look forward to another short about the couple, hopefully.
I love how Ms Forrester captured the mood of thre reaction after George Floyd's murder. It didn't seem preachy and it captured the varying moods we had (still have). I also like how she included the interracial couple aspect of the issue. I know some couples who are talking but there are some who ignore. I look forward to another short about the couple, hopefully.
July 16, 2020
BLM
Literature for the times! I love that this author is so in touch with what is going on in the world. Sometimes looking at the news is painful. It makes you want to holler and after that it makes you want to march. A good book that encapsulates all of the emotions we are currently feeling with a sprinkle of romance is a book worth reading!
Literature for the times! I love that this author is so in touch with what is going on in the world. Sometimes looking at the news is painful. It makes you want to holler and after that it makes you want to march. A good book that encapsulates all of the emotions we are currently feeling with a sprinkle of romance is a book worth reading!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews