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This Time Always
Vivacious Niyana Nichols isn’t looking for love. Between the demands of work as a Wellness Clinic Administrator, recent widowhood, and being there for her two beautiful daughters, love has taken a back seat for the fifty-three-year-old. To complicate matters, she’s also suffering from Alopecia. Yet, when Niyana meets her daughter’s handsome professor, she is faced with emotions she thought she’d buried with her husband.Divorced single father and African-American Studies professor, Omari Josef, is devoted to his career. When the forty-six-year-old grandfather meets the gorgeous and spirited Niyana, he’s forced to rethink his own happiness. Their age difference doesn’t matter to him. What does is making sure she realizes that she's a woman worth cherishing. Will the sudden reappearance of Omari’s ex-wife wreak havoc in his life? Or will their undeniable attraction grow into something solid and abiding?
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2020
37 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Suzette D. Harrison
14 books270 followersSuzette D. Harrison, is an award-winning author of 10 books celebrating African American life and culture. A native Californian and the middle of three daughters, Suzette grew up in a home where reading was required, not requested. Thanks to a culinary degree in Pastry & Baking, when not busy on her next novel, you might find Suzette whipping up a batch of cupcakes.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 19, 2020
I enjoyed this story about average people dealing with timely issues and the normal struggles of life in a realistic way.
Niyana Nichols and Omari Josef, two successful professionals, each lead quiet, disciplined lives, in part because of emotionally painful pasts. When the two meet at the college graduation of Niyana’s youngest daughter, they’re both surprised by the spark between them. Omari has been closed off to relationships since he divorced his manipulative, adulterous wife twelve years ago, and Niyana’s been burdened by guilt as much as grief since losing her husband suddenly almost three years ago.
These two have great chemistry and their banter is fresh and not forced. I loved their openness and honesty, and willingness to listen.
However, there is one thing Niyana hasn’t told Omari… she has alopecia areata totalis and she wears wigs to cover her baldness.
I loved the way the condition was covered, that other women who had it were included, and that the struggles of identity and self-esteem were discussed.
While Omari has made it clear he has no problem with Niyana’s menopause issues and their seven-year age difference, she hesitates to tell him about her baldness because she fears his reaction and because while she’s accepted her condition, she still isn’t sure of how she will live with it.
Toni, Niyana’s BFF, and Brenda, Omari’s scheming ex-wife, are two well-written characters who enhance the story, adding to its depth. But be warned… Brenda will make you want to lay hands, and not to heal.
A solid, satisfying ending is yet open enough to make me wonder if we’ll visit these characters again, and I wouldn’t mind that at all.
Enjoy!
Niyana Nichols and Omari Josef, two successful professionals, each lead quiet, disciplined lives, in part because of emotionally painful pasts. When the two meet at the college graduation of Niyana’s youngest daughter, they’re both surprised by the spark between them. Omari has been closed off to relationships since he divorced his manipulative, adulterous wife twelve years ago, and Niyana’s been burdened by guilt as much as grief since losing her husband suddenly almost three years ago.
These two have great chemistry and their banter is fresh and not forced. I loved their openness and honesty, and willingness to listen.
However, there is one thing Niyana hasn’t told Omari… she has alopecia areata totalis and she wears wigs to cover her baldness.
I loved the way the condition was covered, that other women who had it were included, and that the struggles of identity and self-esteem were discussed.
While Omari has made it clear he has no problem with Niyana’s menopause issues and their seven-year age difference, she hesitates to tell him about her baldness because she fears his reaction and because while she’s accepted her condition, she still isn’t sure of how she will live with it.
Toni, Niyana’s BFF, and Brenda, Omari’s scheming ex-wife, are two well-written characters who enhance the story, adding to its depth. But be warned… Brenda will make you want to lay hands, and not to heal.
A solid, satisfying ending is yet open enough to make me wonder if we’ll visit these characters again, and I wouldn’t mind that at all.
Enjoy!
August 10, 2020
Talented writer, Suzette Harrison regales her readers with a hot story that features the older woman-younger man romance. However, that’s not all there is to this story. Niyana Nichols, our 53 year old widowed heroine, is a well-respected wellness clinic administrator destined to get her groove back when she meets 46 year old divorced, African American Studies professor, Omari Josef. Niyana and Omari are intriguing characters because as accomplished as they are in their chosen professions, they are almost overpowered by personal issues that they thought were handled, locked away, and buried.
The family members of both Niyana and Omari play significant roles as side characters because they contribute a great deal to the development of the main characters. I must pause here to present an award to a character who is so deserving. The “Boo-Hiss Award” goes to Ms.Brenda, Omari’s ex.— just foul on so many levels. Don’t take my word for it. You can always purchase a copy, and see for yourself.
THIS TIME ALWAYS is an entertaining, enlightening and enjoyable story, and I recommend it for your reading pleasure.
The family members of both Niyana and Omari play significant roles as side characters because they contribute a great deal to the development of the main characters. I must pause here to present an award to a character who is so deserving. The “Boo-Hiss Award” goes to Ms.Brenda, Omari’s ex.— just foul on so many levels. Don’t take my word for it. You can always purchase a copy, and see for yourself.
THIS TIME ALWAYS is an entertaining, enlightening and enjoyable story, and I recommend it for your reading pleasure.
November 3, 2020
O and Ny
Excellent read, grate subject Alopecia. With all the exes and there drama and secrets my most favorite line was I've been dunked in a pool at Bethesda and awaiting the God of hot flash healing.
Excellent read, grate subject Alopecia. With all the exes and there drama and secrets my most favorite line was I've been dunked in a pool at Bethesda and awaiting the God of hot flash healing.
September 23, 2020
10 Stars if I Could
This book! I laughed, cried, out and out bowled at the antics of Omari and Niyana's. Yes, she should remain pet free. A wonderfully insightful look into the world of alopecia and dealing with it, as well as May/December relationships. Well worth the read.
This book! I laughed, cried, out and out bowled at the antics of Omari and Niyana's. Yes, she should remain pet free. A wonderfully insightful look into the world of alopecia and dealing with it, as well as May/December relationships. Well worth the read.
Read
November 8, 2020She's 53. He's 46. Your point is?
A romance that proves there is love after life deals you a less than savory hand.
You'll want to read this book if you like Grown & Sexy stories offering love and second chances!
Available in paperback & ebook
A romance that proves there is love after life deals you a less than savory hand.
You'll want to read this book if you like Grown & Sexy stories offering love and second chances!
Available in paperback & ebook
August 14, 2020
Yes To Love and Second Chances
I received this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review!
You have a beautiful mother who is struggling with becoming a widow, along with the knowledge that the marriage was on rocky grounds. She is also trying to come to the realization that, no matter what, she has Alopecia, and regardless of all the “treatments” her bestie, Toni, comes up with, at some point, she’s going to have to let go and accept her reality! Then enters Professor Omari Joseph who is younger and also her youngest daughter’s college professor. Can I say, “Drama?!”
This journey takes us through each of them accepting what is and what can be! It shows us that love and acceptance of our unique situations can be very rewarding at the end! I loved every word in this story! It was an emotional rollercoaster ride, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! This is an amazing book and if you haven’t purchased your copy yet, you’re sorely missing out! I highly recommend this book! Kudos, Suzette!! 💜
I received this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review!
You have a beautiful mother who is struggling with becoming a widow, along with the knowledge that the marriage was on rocky grounds. She is also trying to come to the realization that, no matter what, she has Alopecia, and regardless of all the “treatments” her bestie, Toni, comes up with, at some point, she’s going to have to let go and accept her reality! Then enters Professor Omari Joseph who is younger and also her youngest daughter’s college professor. Can I say, “Drama?!”
This journey takes us through each of them accepting what is and what can be! It shows us that love and acceptance of our unique situations can be very rewarding at the end! I loved every word in this story! It was an emotional rollercoaster ride, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! This is an amazing book and if you haven’t purchased your copy yet, you’re sorely missing out! I highly recommend this book! Kudos, Suzette!! 💜
August 19, 2020
Niyana Nichols a 53 year old widow, mother of two and suffering from Alopecia is not looking for love but when she meets the fine 46 year old divorced grandfather Dr. Omari Josef, it starts looking and feeling like love may be a possibility. Will Niyana let their age difference or her Alopecia keep her from happiness?
Suzette Harrison has given us a mature black romance where two people have a second chance at love. I loved Omari and Niyana’s story, I have not laughed so much when reading a book in a long time. The comedic banter between the two was hilarious, I really enjoyed the dialogue between the the two of them. Some of the scenes brought back a few memories for me especially the cookout scene, I am in the same age group as the characters and I identified with them. My favorite character was Miss Toni and I really hope she gets a story because I am here for that. Great job and I recommend this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Suzette Harrison has given us a mature black romance where two people have a second chance at love. I loved Omari and Niyana’s story, I have not laughed so much when reading a book in a long time. The comedic banter between the two was hilarious, I really enjoyed the dialogue between the the two of them. Some of the scenes brought back a few memories for me especially the cookout scene, I am in the same age group as the characters and I identified with them. My favorite character was Miss Toni and I really hope she gets a story because I am here for that. Great job and I recommend this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 10, 2021
This slow burning romance had emotional depth and dealt with problems in a mature yet entertaining manner.
The heroine, Niyana had Alopecia and it was interesting to see how she dealt with it and grew into complete acceptance of herself. Omari had familial issues to contend with. It was wonderful seeing how he'd matured from his younger years.
The story held a cast of characters that kept me grinning at the way they related to each other. I'm hoping to read Toni's (The heroine's best friend) story soon.
The heroine, Niyana had Alopecia and it was interesting to see how she dealt with it and grew into complete acceptance of herself. Omari had familial issues to contend with. It was wonderful seeing how he'd matured from his younger years.
The story held a cast of characters that kept me grinning at the way they related to each other. I'm hoping to read Toni's (The heroine's best friend) story soon.
August 14, 2020
A love found
I enjoyed Niyana and Omari's story. I never heard of Alopecia until about three years ago when my nine year old niece was diagnosed with it. It was interesting seeing how Niyana and the other ladies dealt with acepting it. I would like to hearToni and Mo's story.
I enjoyed Niyana and Omari's story. I never heard of Alopecia until about three years ago when my nine year old niece was diagnosed with it. It was interesting seeing how Niyana and the other ladies dealt with acepting it. I would like to hearToni and Mo's story.
August 14, 2020
I received an advance reader copy of this book for an honest review. And I have to honestly say that I adored this book. Once I started reading I couldn't stop. I enjoyed the love story between Niyana and Omari, as well as the love Niyana had for herself after becoming comfortable with her condition, and embracing the new her. By the end of this book I felt like the characters were real people and I was ready to hang out with Niy, Omari, Toni and Mo, join Rashad in beating up Brenda and then finishing the evening with dinner at Big Mama's table with her and Papa Redmond. Fabulous book.
October 4, 2020
Two stories in one...Awesome
Wow...Suzette Harrison gives readers a lot with her latest novel, This Time Always. A recently widowed mother of two adult daughters trying to come to terms with as alopecia. A divorced single parent father raising his son. When the two met, there is fear, understanding, and romance.
Thanks Ms Harrison for such a well developed as well as informative romance.
#cillasbookmaniacs
Wow...Suzette Harrison gives readers a lot with her latest novel, This Time Always. A recently widowed mother of two adult daughters trying to come to terms with as alopecia. A divorced single parent father raising his son. When the two met, there is fear, understanding, and romance.
Thanks Ms Harrison for such a well developed as well as informative romance.
#cillasbookmaniacs
August 31, 2020
After being widowed and finally seeing her youngest daughter graduate college at the age of 53, Niyana feels that her job is the only thriving thing in her life, until she meets college professor , 46 year old Omari Josef. Also battling a health condition she has kept secret for years, the course set's Niyana on a whirlwind of emotions and decisions that have to be made. After a bitter marriage and divorce, Omari starts to settle on his career and making memories with his grand daughter, of course until he met Niyana. The two of them will need to decide if they want to work on growing together or if they should put this whole thing out to pasture.
I haven't read a book by Ms. Harrison that I didn't' enjoy, and this one is not an exception. There were several type of emotional moments, from swoon worthy, to laughter, to someone needing a swift kick in he rear. The author also delicately handles several health conditions that many women face with grace, dignity and information. And the maturity of the characters when it came to romance was written just beautifully. I am excitedly awaiting the next book in the series
I haven't read a book by Ms. Harrison that I didn't' enjoy, and this one is not an exception. There were several type of emotional moments, from swoon worthy, to laughter, to someone needing a swift kick in he rear. The author also delicately handles several health conditions that many women face with grace, dignity and information. And the maturity of the characters when it came to romance was written just beautifully. I am excitedly awaiting the next book in the series
September 20, 2020
Wonderful Read
Niy and Omari's story had me laughing at times and teary-eyed at others. It was touching how this couple loved each other beyond the superficial, proving that "different" is beautiful. If you want a feel-good read, This Time Always is for you.
I`m going to patiently wait for Toni and Mo`s story. 😉
Niy and Omari's story had me laughing at times and teary-eyed at others. It was touching how this couple loved each other beyond the superficial, proving that "different" is beautiful. If you want a feel-good read, This Time Always is for you.
I`m going to patiently wait for Toni and Mo`s story. 😉
August 18, 2020
The love they deserve ❤ ♥ ❤
I enjoy reading this book Niyana and Omari's relationship was slow and steady. Niyana is an successful, mother and widow. She has another issue but it doesn't stop her from living her life. Omari is a professor, father and grandfather. Together they are the perfect couple knowing that's what's on the inside truly makes a person beautiful on the outside. Both finding in each other the companionship and love for this next half of their lives. Excellent job Suzette wonderful book.
I enjoy reading this book Niyana and Omari's relationship was slow and steady. Niyana is an successful, mother and widow. She has another issue but it doesn't stop her from living her life. Omari is a professor, father and grandfather. Together they are the perfect couple knowing that's what's on the inside truly makes a person beautiful on the outside. Both finding in each other the companionship and love for this next half of their lives. Excellent job Suzette wonderful book.
August 17, 2020
Awesome Read
This book is not your typical romance. The characters are outstanding and draw you I'm. It is about acceptance of self. Living your life for yourself, family overcoming obstacles and so much more.
Would love to see a story with zTomi and Mo , there was something going on there
This book is not your typical romance. The characters are outstanding and draw you I'm. It is about acceptance of self. Living your life for yourself, family overcoming obstacles and so much more.
Would love to see a story with zTomi and Mo , there was something going on there
August 26, 2020
Second Time
As someone in the early stages of senior life this story really touched my heart. Nayana and Omari have raised children, been divorced, and buried a spouse. Hidden fears, anxiety, and family bring this story full circle. Well written and told, a story of real life. Smoothly done Ms. Harrison.
#Cillasbookmaniacs
As someone in the early stages of senior life this story really touched my heart. Nayana and Omari have raised children, been divorced, and buried a spouse. Hidden fears, anxiety, and family bring this story full circle. Well written and told, a story of real life. Smoothly done Ms. Harrison.
#Cillasbookmaniacs
September 13, 2020
Open Love
I enjoyed the maturity of both characters they knew what they wanted and did not allow circumstances hinder them. Both characters exude strength.
I enjoyed the maturity of both characters they knew what they wanted and did not allow circumstances hinder them. Both characters exude strength.
June 28, 2023
This was a refreshing story about two mature adults meeting and eventually, falling in love. I loved how Ms. Harrison took her time with the characters. They were obviously drawn to one another sexually, but she took her time and allowed them to get to know one another. Omari often expressed his feeling for Niyana in a gentlemanly way…with a kiss to her hand. That ole school, Frankie Beverly kind of romance. And she knew how to treat him as well.
On a personal note, I was diagnosed with alopecia over twenty years ago. After experiencing the initial shock of what it meant to me (how will I look without hair, what will others whisper about me, how will my husband see me), I quickly got over myself (and others), threw away the notion of wigs and decided to flaunt my pretty big, bald head. When I saw the cover of This Time Always, I immediately want to read this story. This book showcases woman with alopecia who loved and celebrated their beauty. Ms. Harrison addresses hot flashes, alopecia and still embraced natural femineity in an EXCELLENT way.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
“Do whatever you need to in order to not merely exist but enjoy life with alopecia as your true you. Whichever woman that is: with or without a wig. Simply do not deny yourself. You’re glorious, and this world needs your intrinsic, invaluable gifts.”
“Alopecia wasn’t her fight. It was a part of her life. She could either live with it gracefully or keep spinning and negatively impacting her psyche, her soul, and her peace.”
I LOVED THIS BOOK! Is there a “Grown and Sexy” genre? There should be!
On a personal note, I was diagnosed with alopecia over twenty years ago. After experiencing the initial shock of what it meant to me (how will I look without hair, what will others whisper about me, how will my husband see me), I quickly got over myself (and others), threw away the notion of wigs and decided to flaunt my pretty big, bald head. When I saw the cover of This Time Always, I immediately want to read this story. This book showcases woman with alopecia who loved and celebrated their beauty. Ms. Harrison addresses hot flashes, alopecia and still embraced natural femineity in an EXCELLENT way.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
“Do whatever you need to in order to not merely exist but enjoy life with alopecia as your true you. Whichever woman that is: with or without a wig. Simply do not deny yourself. You’re glorious, and this world needs your intrinsic, invaluable gifts.”
“Alopecia wasn’t her fight. It was a part of her life. She could either live with it gracefully or keep spinning and negatively impacting her psyche, her soul, and her peace.”
I LOVED THIS BOOK! Is there a “Grown and Sexy” genre? There should be!
March 25, 2021
I couldn't put this book down! From the very beginning Ms. Harrison brings the reader into the story. Get ready for an entirely new and fresh take on the romance novel. No "perfect", "beautiful" people, no women waiting to be saved by flawless men. "This Time Always" is the imperfect perfect romance. Ms. Harrison challenges all beliefs about love, beauty, youth and relationships when Niyana meets Omari. Niyana, the vibrant, accomplished professional is fighting with issues of self-acceptance, an issue with which Omari is very familiar. Ms. Harrison is adept at pushing the romance boundaries of "perfect" "beautiful people" and makes her characters real people that we can all relate to. "This Time Always" entertains and educates, while handling sensitive topics with respect, compassion and honesty. If you consider yourself NOT a romance reader, get this book and be prepared to change your mind.
August 21, 2020
I throughly enjoyed reading Niyana and Omari’s story. She is a beautiful African American 50 ish woman living with Alopecia and being a widow. She’s raised 2 beautiful daughters and now it’s her time to find romance and come to terms with her condition. Her BFF Toni G is her biggest cheerleader along with her daughters.
When Niyana literally knocks Omari Josef on his butt running late to get to her daughters college graduation the sparks are heavy instantly and chemistry is Hot.
Omari wants Niyana in his life forever and he’s determined that nothing will get in the way especially their age difference and her disease. He loves her just the way she is and he shows her in every way.
I love reading about seasoned couples and the author matched them perfectly. I give this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#CILLAMANIACS
When Niyana literally knocks Omari Josef on his butt running late to get to her daughters college graduation the sparks are heavy instantly and chemistry is Hot.
Omari wants Niyana in his life forever and he’s determined that nothing will get in the way especially their age difference and her disease. He loves her just the way she is and he shows her in every way.
I love reading about seasoned couples and the author matched them perfectly. I give this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#CILLAMANIACS
August 13, 2020
4.5 Stars *I received an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
I gave this book 4.5 stars. I only took off a half a star because there was some parts in the book that were slow and a tad bit boring but for the most part this book was great. This is the 4th or 5th book I’ve read by this author and this one is by far my favorite. Several time I found myself laughing out loud at some of the things the characters said and did in the book. But there was also some serious issues addressed in the book. Some things were a little predictable and some things had me like, “I did not see that coming” Overall it is a very enjoyable book and I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Shemah of Cilla’s Book Maniacs
I gave this book 4.5 stars. I only took off a half a star because there was some parts in the book that were slow and a tad bit boring but for the most part this book was great. This is the 4th or 5th book I’ve read by this author and this one is by far my favorite. Several time I found myself laughing out loud at some of the things the characters said and did in the book. But there was also some serious issues addressed in the book. Some things were a little predictable and some things had me like, “I did not see that coming” Overall it is a very enjoyable book and I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Shemah of Cilla’s Book Maniacs
August 11, 2024
This Time Always
Suzette wrote a book for the mature adults with real issues. Niyana and Omari were funny, serious and respectful towards each other and their relationship. Niyana did not let Omari forget that he was younger. Alopecia is real and something that the person has to come to terms with. It is a book worth discussing and reading. You will not be bored. Suzette covered all subjects is why she earned 5 stars.
Suzette wrote a book for the mature adults with real issues. Niyana and Omari were funny, serious and respectful towards each other and their relationship. Niyana did not let Omari forget that he was younger. Alopecia is real and something that the person has to come to terms with. It is a book worth discussing and reading. You will not be bored. Suzette covered all subjects is why she earned 5 stars.
August 15, 2020
Mature Love
Niyana has her burdens and Omari has his. In a world where looks are everything it takes courage to totally be you!
Niyana has her burdens and Omari has his. In a world where looks are everything it takes courage to totally be you!
January 20, 2021
Excellent Read
I am so glad I ordered this book. The first I have ever read. I like it a whole lot! Give me more. I have alopecia also and this book was so true. Thank you.
I am so glad I ordered this book. The first I have ever read. I like it a whole lot! Give me more. I have alopecia also and this book was so true. Thank you.
February 12, 2021
Grown Folks Love
I chose to give book a well deserve rating. I loved it because it was real life. It spoke on real issues without making me sad. Mature (over 45 love.
I chose to give book a well deserve rating. I loved it because it was real life. It spoke on real issues without making me sad. Mature (over 45 love.
October 9, 2020
While l enjoy reading contemporary romance featuring twenty and thirty-somethings, it was totally refreshing to read about a 40+ couple (featuring a sista my age). Love it! Niyana and Omari are serious couple goals. I cringed near the end but was so proud of her "get back" with her man and their HEA. Niyana took ownership of her condition but never let it control her life; she's a true Shero. This woman makes you look at yourself in the mirror and appreciate age and wisdom; Omari lets you believe "good men" are really out there, looking for the woman that completes them. I loved the friendship between Niy and Toni; they were hilarious. Now...it's time for sista Toni to get a man (lol).
August 17, 2020
A Grown Folks Love Story
Niyana and Omari were a good match. I enjoyed their story and that they allowed for the relationship to flow. He was such a nice man even though he had suffered through insecurities. Niyana was strong as we as Black women have to be and I understood her struggle.If you want to know what happens read it for yourself. I throughly enjoyed it.
#cillasbookmaniacs
Niyana and Omari were a good match. I enjoyed their story and that they allowed for the relationship to flow. He was such a nice man even though he had suffered through insecurities. Niyana was strong as we as Black women have to be and I understood her struggle.If you want to know what happens read it for yourself. I throughly enjoyed it.
#cillasbookmaniacs
November 11, 2021
I loved everything about Omari and Niyana’s story. Second chances at love, dealing with life altering challenges and family drama. Suzette Harrison never disappoints in giving you a story that will have you laughing, crying and feeling the love. I recommend this story and looking forward to the next story.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews