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Afterwards #4
The Takedown
** Sequel and conclusion to 'The Come Up' **
When you’re riding high, there’s almost always someone looking for the chance at a takedown …
Newly-installed as President & CEO of the Scaife music empire, Jamal Turner is undeniably at the pinnacle of his career. And to sweeten the triumph, he has Makayla Hughes at his side—a woman whose wide-eyed wonder at their good fortune keeps his feet firmly planted on solid ground. In a profession that thrives on artifice, Makayla is the realest and most meaningful thing in his life.Jamal’s biggest problem—and the only conflict in his relationship—is finding time to keep his commitment to participate in planning their wedding. Well … that’s almost their only conflict. The other, is Devin Parks, Makayla’s omnipresent best friend whose demands on her time and heart keep pulling her back when Jamal needs her to move forward.But those may not be their only issues. Devin’s career-rise has attracted some unwanted attention, and unbeknownst to them both, maybe so too has Jamal and Makayla’s almost-too-perfect relationship. Someone, somewhere, is looking for the chance at a takedown.
When you’re riding high, there’s almost always someone looking for the chance at a takedown …
Newly-installed as President & CEO of the Scaife music empire, Jamal Turner is undeniably at the pinnacle of his career. And to sweeten the triumph, he has Makayla Hughes at his side—a woman whose wide-eyed wonder at their good fortune keeps his feet firmly planted on solid ground. In a profession that thrives on artifice, Makayla is the realest and most meaningful thing in his life.Jamal’s biggest problem—and the only conflict in his relationship—is finding time to keep his commitment to participate in planning their wedding. Well … that’s almost their only conflict. The other, is Devin Parks, Makayla’s omnipresent best friend whose demands on her time and heart keep pulling her back when Jamal needs her to move forward.But those may not be their only issues. Devin’s career-rise has attracted some unwanted attention, and unbeknownst to them both, maybe so too has Jamal and Makayla’s almost-too-perfect relationship. Someone, somewhere, is looking for the chance at a takedown.
348 pages, Paperback
First published August 30, 2017
149 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Nia Forrester
67 books957 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 102 reviews
September 4, 2017
I think what I most enjoy about Nia Forrester's work isn't just her skillful, absorbent writing, the quiet intelligence that weaves its way throughout her stories, or her rare ability to craft vibrant, real, multidimensional characters. I think the thing I most enjoy is her attention to detail. And not in the obvious way. What I mean by that is, the things and moments she pays attention to. Small moments writers may traditionally overlook in the emotional and psychological development of their characters-- the subtle things that makes characters breathe, Nia keys in on. She doesn't care if you like her characters. She wants them to be fully human. And in the development of that humanity, perhaps compassion and maybe more importantly, empathy can develop, and maybe you'll like them in spite of your own judgments and pre-conceived notions of what folks should be. Nia's character development comes in small but vital moments, and that requires skill and heart.
The Takedown— the follow-up to The Come Up where we first delved into the story of Jamal Turner, Makayla Hughes and Devin Parks—is among Nia's most gripping work and, for me, probably the most emotionally-engaging of The Commitment Series, which is a stellar collection that has marked her as an elite, standout talent. In The Takedown, we get an intimate glimpse into the nuances of complicated, engaging relationships as lived through Makayla, Jamal and Devin. I won't give anything away. What I will do, is say that the detailed relationship intimacies that drive Nia's work are fully apparent in The Takedown. The emotional pull, the depth of feeling she's able to draw out with simple paragraphs and situations are the marks of an incredibly talented and deliberate writer, which by this point, we're all well aware Nia Forrester is.
The Takedown is, is a well-crafted novel about emotional trust, intimacy, dependency and the choices we face and make along the way. It's been a good while since I've been as deeply affected by a book as I was while reading The Takedown, and I know that's largely because Devin Parks is easily my favorite character of Nia's and one of my favorite fictional characters of recent times, in any genre. As Lily Java said, he's "haunting" and "vivid" and his character will likely linger with you long after this novel and into the next, when we get his full-length story. I grew to love and understand Jamal even more in this novel, and related wholly to Makayla. I also enjoyed the brief glimpses we got of Harper, who I anticipate may end up being another standout Nia character.
Nia Forrester is one of the most skilled writers I've ever had the pleasure of reading. With The Takedown, Nia has breathed life into another set of characters that will stick with you long after you read the last word. And that, I think, more than anything, is her greatest gift of all.
The Takedown— the follow-up to The Come Up where we first delved into the story of Jamal Turner, Makayla Hughes and Devin Parks—is among Nia's most gripping work and, for me, probably the most emotionally-engaging of The Commitment Series, which is a stellar collection that has marked her as an elite, standout talent. In The Takedown, we get an intimate glimpse into the nuances of complicated, engaging relationships as lived through Makayla, Jamal and Devin. I won't give anything away. What I will do, is say that the detailed relationship intimacies that drive Nia's work are fully apparent in The Takedown. The emotional pull, the depth of feeling she's able to draw out with simple paragraphs and situations are the marks of an incredibly talented and deliberate writer, which by this point, we're all well aware Nia Forrester is.
The Takedown is, is a well-crafted novel about emotional trust, intimacy, dependency and the choices we face and make along the way. It's been a good while since I've been as deeply affected by a book as I was while reading The Takedown, and I know that's largely because Devin Parks is easily my favorite character of Nia's and one of my favorite fictional characters of recent times, in any genre. As Lily Java said, he's "haunting" and "vivid" and his character will likely linger with you long after this novel and into the next, when we get his full-length story. I grew to love and understand Jamal even more in this novel, and related wholly to Makayla. I also enjoyed the brief glimpses we got of Harper, who I anticipate may end up being another standout Nia character.
Nia Forrester is one of the most skilled writers I've ever had the pleasure of reading. With The Takedown, Nia has breathed life into another set of characters that will stick with you long after you read the last word. And that, I think, more than anything, is her greatest gift of all.
October 2, 2017
Nia definitely did not disappoint with this one! This story out of all the stories she has penned was my favorite. I loved everybody in this book especially Jamal. After reading this one I have to know Devin and Harper’s story. Devin kept toying with my emotions throughout this story. He got on my nerves then I wanted to hug him then he was just plain ole aggravating but the ending *tearssssssss*.
Not one dull moment in this story. I could picture everything. The characters were colorful. Edge of the seat drama and the sex scenes *fanning*. Just read it especially if you’re a Nia fan!
Not one dull moment in this story. I could picture everything. The characters were colorful. Edge of the seat drama and the sex scenes *fanning*. Just read it especially if you’re a Nia fan!
September 2, 2017
I loved this sequel to the Come Up from Nia Forrester. The book was a fast and comprehensive read that I enjoyed every second of but I’d be lying if I didn’t say it also left me feeling wildly frustrated. It was the first book in a long time I can remember swearing loudly at when it ended. Why? I’ll get to that in a second, first let me tell you why I enjoyed it so much. For me, Makayla and Jamal are probably one of the more intriguing couples in the Commitment series because their problems are often not of their own making or at least it seems that way from my vantage point. The tapestry of their love for each other is incredibly intricate without being excessive. Despite their conflicts, not once did I feel that these characters didn’t know they were meant to be together even when they allow themselves the nonsensical urge to question it, in the heat of an emotional moment. I loved that. Confident couple love is sexy and these two have that in spades.
What they don’t always have as a couple is good timing or friends, colleagues, and acquaintances with good timing. Much is made of Makayla’s youth in this book but I have to say it’s her maturity that I find refreshing. Her deep-seated understanding of who she is and why that doesn’t always fit into Jamal’s world is sensible, even when it’s a tad misguided. In this book, she often comes to a point where she faces that squarely – head on – even when she’s unprepared to like it. That’s brave and explains what Jamal sees in her. As for Jamal, there’s a reason I think he’s one of the more popular book boyfriend’s in this series and not just cause he’s preternaturally sexy or all knowing about and sensitive to women. Maybe it’s the job he has and the instincts it took to grow into a job like the one he’s dealing with now as CEO of SE, but Jamal always seems like the kind of guy who gets it. It may take time for him to figure it out but usually not a lot of time. And then, not only does he get it immediately, he acts on it… immediately.
Something else I loved about this book was how Ms. Forrester talks about New York and its people. I’m a typical New Yorker and therefore fairly touchy about how people view, depict, or talk about my city. Honestly, I can barely handle it when a writer who clearly doesn’t know or even like it a little bit, writes about New York as a setting. With this book and Ms. Forrester that couldn’t be further from the case. She not only knows NYC well, she understands it, and you can tell she loves it.
I’m leaving out much that I enjoyed so I don’t spoil it for you. Suffice to say there’s a lot going on and all of it’s interesting relational behavior and worthy reading. There are so many new, intriguing characters in this book namely Harper, Damon, Prentice, Jackson, and Jenna all of whom I wanted to know more about. I definitely felt the stage being set in more ways than one for us to see some of those characters again. And therein lies the wild frustration I had when I finished reading this book and it can be summed up in two words: Devin Parks. Devin appears throughout The Takedown as he did in its predecessor The Come Up. He is a haunting, vivid character and perhaps my favorite in any Nia Forrester book I’ve ever read. Simply put, I want more of him. A LOT more. I’m deeply happy and satisfied with the sequel to Makayla and Jamal’s story but if there had been another Nia Forrester book waiting in the wings about Devin Parks? I wouldn’t be writing this review right now. I’d be reading it.
What they don’t always have as a couple is good timing or friends, colleagues, and acquaintances with good timing. Much is made of Makayla’s youth in this book but I have to say it’s her maturity that I find refreshing. Her deep-seated understanding of who she is and why that doesn’t always fit into Jamal’s world is sensible, even when it’s a tad misguided. In this book, she often comes to a point where she faces that squarely – head on – even when she’s unprepared to like it. That’s brave and explains what Jamal sees in her. As for Jamal, there’s a reason I think he’s one of the more popular book boyfriend’s in this series and not just cause he’s preternaturally sexy or all knowing about and sensitive to women. Maybe it’s the job he has and the instincts it took to grow into a job like the one he’s dealing with now as CEO of SE, but Jamal always seems like the kind of guy who gets it. It may take time for him to figure it out but usually not a lot of time. And then, not only does he get it immediately, he acts on it… immediately.
Something else I loved about this book was how Ms. Forrester talks about New York and its people. I’m a typical New Yorker and therefore fairly touchy about how people view, depict, or talk about my city. Honestly, I can barely handle it when a writer who clearly doesn’t know or even like it a little bit, writes about New York as a setting. With this book and Ms. Forrester that couldn’t be further from the case. She not only knows NYC well, she understands it, and you can tell she loves it.
I’m leaving out much that I enjoyed so I don’t spoil it for you. Suffice to say there’s a lot going on and all of it’s interesting relational behavior and worthy reading. There are so many new, intriguing characters in this book namely Harper, Damon, Prentice, Jackson, and Jenna all of whom I wanted to know more about. I definitely felt the stage being set in more ways than one for us to see some of those characters again. And therein lies the wild frustration I had when I finished reading this book and it can be summed up in two words: Devin Parks. Devin appears throughout The Takedown as he did in its predecessor The Come Up. He is a haunting, vivid character and perhaps my favorite in any Nia Forrester book I’ve ever read. Simply put, I want more of him. A LOT more. I’m deeply happy and satisfied with the sequel to Makayla and Jamal’s story but if there had been another Nia Forrester book waiting in the wings about Devin Parks? I wouldn’t be writing this review right now. I’d be reading it.
September 2, 2017
I love Nia Forrester books... absolutely. The Takedown delves into the nuances of love and family and ties. Jamal and Kayla are in love... but Kayla loves her friend Devin completely and though Jamal is too manly to own fully his insecurities about their ties, it's clear Devin is his Achilles heel... the way Forrester reveals and peels away the layers of the triad is sublime. No one does it better...
And Devin, I crave more about him and Harper and how he handles this next stage in his life. Devin Parks is the realest, most complex character and I love that and him. He deserves more.
Angelia Vernon Menchan
And Devin, I crave more about him and Harper and how he handles this next stage in his life. Devin Parks is the realest, most complex character and I love that and him. He deserves more.
Angelia Vernon Menchan
September 6, 2017
This book was so good, I didn't want it to end. I didn't think I would cry at the end but I did....Nia got me to feel emotional for Devin even though I swore I wouldn't...but that damn Nia Forrester got me. So happy Jamal and Kay found their HEA.
September 11, 2017
Title: The Takedown
Author: Nia Forrester
Publisher: Stiletto Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Takedown" by Nia Forrester
My Thoughts...
Good read with a lot of deep emotions and drama all over the place that will capture your attention all the way through this incredible read. With the main characters being very complex in this well written story that dealt with 'love, sex, naivete, trust, sexual abuse, co-dependence, insecurity, friendship, heartbreak, true love, growth. and redemption.' All that I will say is that the love that Jamal had for Makayla [Kayla] was simply off the chart. I loved how it wasn't hard for Jamal to admit when he was wrong. Wow, to have someone love you like that was simply the best. I do have high hopes for Kayla who needed to grow up as well as her friend Devin and I liked in how they were able to work out that friendship situation. It was really something to see how this romance story brings out some of the hard truths that was dealt with so well with trust in this journey of love where there was a HEA.
Author: Nia Forrester
Publisher: Stiletto Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Takedown" by Nia Forrester
My Thoughts...
Good read with a lot of deep emotions and drama all over the place that will capture your attention all the way through this incredible read. With the main characters being very complex in this well written story that dealt with 'love, sex, naivete, trust, sexual abuse, co-dependence, insecurity, friendship, heartbreak, true love, growth. and redemption.' All that I will say is that the love that Jamal had for Makayla [Kayla] was simply off the chart. I loved how it wasn't hard for Jamal to admit when he was wrong. Wow, to have someone love you like that was simply the best. I do have high hopes for Kayla who needed to grow up as well as her friend Devin and I liked in how they were able to work out that friendship situation. It was really something to see how this romance story brings out some of the hard truths that was dealt with so well with trust in this journey of love where there was a HEA.
September 10, 2017
The epilogue of The Take Down MADE this book everything. I love the men in this book. Can't wait to see more of these sensitive, real, highly evolved brothas.
September 11, 2017
Happily Everafter?
Jamal is flying high both professionally and personally. He is the newly crowned CEO of Scaife Enterprises, and he is engaged to Makayla, the love of his life. However, outside pressures threaten his chance of living happily ever after. In the mean time, Makayla struggles to adjust to her new role as wife-to-be to a major mogul.
The Takedown left me emotionally torn. I've loved Jamal since he was first introduced in the Afterwards series, and I enjoyed getting to know him in The Come Up. Jamal is THAT dude: gorgeous, successful and focused. He plays to win. In all things.
Now Makayla. There was something about her that just grated on my nerves throughout the novel. She came across of spoiled, immature, and flighty. I found myself wondering why Jamal loved her. In all honesty, I was ambivalent about these two finding their happily ever after.
Surprisingly, I found Devin to be refreshing. His character was a hot mess, in more ways than one, but he was authentic in all his f'ed upness. His character showed tremendous growth in the novel; I just wish some of that would have rubbed off on his BFF.
With that being said, I really enjoyed The Takedown. My emotions were all over the place as I experienced the highs and lows of Jamal and Makayla's story. I am forever grateful for the journey.
Jamal is flying high both professionally and personally. He is the newly crowned CEO of Scaife Enterprises, and he is engaged to Makayla, the love of his life. However, outside pressures threaten his chance of living happily ever after. In the mean time, Makayla struggles to adjust to her new role as wife-to-be to a major mogul.
The Takedown left me emotionally torn. I've loved Jamal since he was first introduced in the Afterwards series, and I enjoyed getting to know him in The Come Up. Jamal is THAT dude: gorgeous, successful and focused. He plays to win. In all things.
Now Makayla. There was something about her that just grated on my nerves throughout the novel. She came across of spoiled, immature, and flighty. I found myself wondering why Jamal loved her. In all honesty, I was ambivalent about these two finding their happily ever after.
Surprisingly, I found Devin to be refreshing. His character was a hot mess, in more ways than one, but he was authentic in all his f'ed upness. His character showed tremendous growth in the novel; I just wish some of that would have rubbed off on his BFF.
With that being said, I really enjoyed The Takedown. My emotions were all over the place as I experienced the highs and lows of Jamal and Makayla's story. I am forever grateful for the journey.
September 2, 2017
Loved it!
This book took me on an emotional journey. I shouldn't get so angry with a fictional character that I throw my Kindle down, but I did. That's what great writing will do for you.
This book took me on an emotional journey. I shouldn't get so angry with a fictional character that I throw my Kindle down, but I did. That's what great writing will do for you.
August 4, 2022
Another enjoyable addition to the Commitment/ Afterwards series. This is a direct sequel to The Come Up, and it continues/completes Jamal and Kayla's story. There's a lot going on, with both of them struggling to adjust to changed circumstances in their lives, and it's a bit angsty at times.
But as with the other books in this series, you believe in these characters. They are real people with human flaws, and they sometimes make false assumptions or poor decisions. But through it all, Kayla and Jamal find that the magic of their deep connection eventually helps to overcome the roadblocks along the way, and both characters showed growth and development by the end. I loved the strength of their relationship.
This book also shows us Kayla's childhood friend Devin in much more close-up, as he starts to be able to deal with the issues from his past. This also lays the groundwork for the book The Broken.
We also had snippets of other fav characters from previous books, especially Robyn Scaife, Riley and Tracy. That was fun to revisit with them a little.
I highly recommend this series. Well written and completely engrossing. Nia Forrester has created a fascinating fictional world peopled with characters you really care about.
But as with the other books in this series, you believe in these characters. They are real people with human flaws, and they sometimes make false assumptions or poor decisions. But through it all, Kayla and Jamal find that the magic of their deep connection eventually helps to overcome the roadblocks along the way, and both characters showed growth and development by the end. I loved the strength of their relationship.
This book also shows us Kayla's childhood friend Devin in much more close-up, as he starts to be able to deal with the issues from his past. This also lays the groundwork for the book The Broken.
We also had snippets of other fav characters from previous books, especially Robyn Scaife, Riley and Tracy. That was fun to revisit with them a little.
I highly recommend this series. Well written and completely engrossing. Nia Forrester has created a fascinating fictional world peopled with characters you really care about.
June 27, 2020
This is why Nia is my absolute favorite author. I loved Jamal even more after reading this book. This was a well written novel by a phenomenal author. Kudos and keep them coming :)
May 31, 2023
DOPE! DOPE! DOPE AS HELL!!!!!
Another banger by author Nia Forrester in the "Afterward" series. We revisit Jamal Turner who is now the CEO of Scaife Music and Makayla Hughes are back, their first book (The Come Up) is where we meet them but now in this story, they are engaged to be married.
In all things we will run into hills and valleys, there will be highs and there will be lows, for Jamal and Makayla, their upcoming nuptials is opening up things for both of them. Things that they never saw coming or anticipated. It's not that these two don't love each other because they do, it's not that these two aren't committed to each other because they are. Sometimes we move our needs for each other on the back burner, and this is when we our alignment with each other begins to go off track.
Jamal has a lot on his plate, still learning, juggling, and taking it all in now that he runs the hottest Music Label in the world. Makayla because it has always been her grandmother and Devin, her world was small and she struggles with being thrust into Jamal's world which is so big and busy. Makayla's best friend/brother Devin Parks is a musical prodigy but with very dark demons that he is battling and is now in therapy about them. Jamal still struggles with their relationship, he doesn't understand Makayla and Devin and a part of him doesn't want to know but a part of him
does.
We learned a lot from their continued story. I was so emotionally bent about everyone LOL!! Most times we are just bent on the leads but when you have other characters involved too, you can't help but be invested.
It was great seeing two women who are a part of the "Commitment" series, Riley and Tracey. I missed them.
That's how author Nia Forrester gets you because her pen game is brilliant in that she draws you in, and you think the side characters are just that but what she is doing is building their story as well for their own release. Nia is so damn good at this.
Devin Parks story (The Broken) is up next and I know he is going to have me in a damn chokehold. I love him and I want the absolute best for him, he deserves his HEA.
Another banger by author Nia Forrester in the "Afterward" series. We revisit Jamal Turner who is now the CEO of Scaife Music and Makayla Hughes are back, their first book (The Come Up) is where we meet them but now in this story, they are engaged to be married.
In all things we will run into hills and valleys, there will be highs and there will be lows, for Jamal and Makayla, their upcoming nuptials is opening up things for both of them. Things that they never saw coming or anticipated. It's not that these two don't love each other because they do, it's not that these two aren't committed to each other because they are. Sometimes we move our needs for each other on the back burner, and this is when we our alignment with each other begins to go off track.
Jamal has a lot on his plate, still learning, juggling, and taking it all in now that he runs the hottest Music Label in the world. Makayla because it has always been her grandmother and Devin, her world was small and she struggles with being thrust into Jamal's world which is so big and busy. Makayla's best friend/brother Devin Parks is a musical prodigy but with very dark demons that he is battling and is now in therapy about them. Jamal still struggles with their relationship, he doesn't understand Makayla and Devin and a part of him doesn't want to know but a part of him
does.
We learned a lot from their continued story. I was so emotionally bent about everyone LOL!! Most times we are just bent on the leads but when you have other characters involved too, you can't help but be invested.
It was great seeing two women who are a part of the "Commitment" series, Riley and Tracey. I missed them.
That's how author Nia Forrester gets you because her pen game is brilliant in that she draws you in, and you think the side characters are just that but what she is doing is building their story as well for their own release. Nia is so damn good at this.
Devin Parks story (The Broken) is up next and I know he is going to have me in a damn chokehold. I love him and I want the absolute best for him, he deserves his HEA.
September 19, 2017
I'm sure I shed a tear as well....
This was my first title by Mrs. Forester and as it turns out, I'm hooked. I love the relationship that Devin and Kayla shared, the brother and sister love with a hint of bordering on being more. Jamal was an easy yet complex man but one thing was certain, he loved Kayla and wasn't about to let anyone get in the way of that.
This was my first title by Mrs. Forester and as it turns out, I'm hooked. I love the relationship that Devin and Kayla shared, the brother and sister love with a hint of bordering on being more. Jamal was an easy yet complex man but one thing was certain, he loved Kayla and wasn't about to let anyone get in the way of that.
November 26, 2017
Whew!!!!
Wow..wow...wow and just for the record one more wow. I don't really know a eloquent way to describe this master piece that held onto me for an entire day and didn't let go then has me wanting more. So yes wow!
Wow..wow...wow and just for the record one more wow. I don't really know a eloquent way to describe this master piece that held onto me for an entire day and didn't let go then has me wanting more. So yes wow!
September 4, 2017
My Heart was Ravished
Nia did it again with yet another amazing story in the Afterward Series. Wow, our Jamal Turner developed into a leader and a loving man. But Makayla was still struggling with wanting to be there for her Friend Devin, and not disrespect Jamal. I'll admit, he was a much better man than most. Jamal allowed Kay her space to do her thing until it was time to break the strings and decide which life she wanted. Kay was immature, much more than I recall from the last book. Devin's insolence, and his need to be a thorn in Jamal's side began to grate on my nerves. At some point, he needed to grow up, get a set of balls, and deal with his issue's. The story covered so many emotional moments; I was happy the story ended with a happy ending for Kay and Jamal, and what appeared to be an intro into Harper and Devin's story... My heart was ravished with many emotions in reading this novel. I enjoyed every minute. 5 Stars!!!
Nia did it again with yet another amazing story in the Afterward Series. Wow, our Jamal Turner developed into a leader and a loving man. But Makayla was still struggling with wanting to be there for her Friend Devin, and not disrespect Jamal. I'll admit, he was a much better man than most. Jamal allowed Kay her space to do her thing until it was time to break the strings and decide which life she wanted. Kay was immature, much more than I recall from the last book. Devin's insolence, and his need to be a thorn in Jamal's side began to grate on my nerves. At some point, he needed to grow up, get a set of balls, and deal with his issue's. The story covered so many emotional moments; I was happy the story ended with a happy ending for Kay and Jamal, and what appeared to be an intro into Harper and Devin's story... My heart was ravished with many emotions in reading this novel. I enjoyed every minute. 5 Stars!!!
July 10, 2022
Superb!
I don't know how Nia Forrester does it, but I'm so glad she does! This is great storytelling. I started reading this book on Friday night, after rereading The Come Up. I had to make myself stop reading Friday night, then I had to make myself put it down on Saturday so that I could engage with my family. The struggle was so real, because this story really grabs you and pulls you in. For real, for real.
My boy Jamal lost a little bit of his shine in this one. I was initially side-eyeing Makayla and saying she needed to get with the program and then I remembered that she was still grieving for her grandmother. And had had her whole life uprooted. Had gone from being very independent and an almost full time caregiver, to being fully dependent on Jamal. And he has issues with the only other person who has been a constant in her life. Meanwhile, Jamal is adjusting to his new position and expecting Makayla to fall in line. He wants to keep doing what he's been doing, and she's just supposed to deal with it. Oh, and not keep turning to Devin, her only other constant, because the relationship makes Jamal is uncomfortable. Boy, bye. And don't get me started on the interaction with Madison (ugh!) and Kendrick's wife (Jenna?)
I don't know if I missed it, but I was curious as to why Makayla no longer worked at Scaife. Not sure why that surprised me, but it did. And why did she trust Claire enough to allow her inside the apartment when neither she or Jamal were there? Call me crazy, but I never trusted Claire after she was bold enough to be gazing at Jamal, talking about how handsome he is - the very first time they met. No way would she have been given access to my home. Ol' shameless hussy. I was shocked to find out she wasn't the leak. Anyway, it was nice to see Makayla be young and go out and have fun. To do things with Jamal, but also go out and let her hair down without Jamal. I hope she keeps it up.
I was overjoyed when we started hearing directly from Devin. His pain and unhappiness is almost tangible. He is one of those characters who really touched my heart and made me want to wrap my arms around him. I was so happy to see that he's getting help. And that he's opening himself up to other friendships...and hopefully a relationship. And not with some sweet, wholesome girl, but someone who's as dark and troubled as he is, and doesn't judge, but understands. This pairing, though unexpected, is genius. I know it's gonna be a rollercoaster ride and I cannot wait!
Ok, let me stop myself. As I'm sure you can tell, I loved this book. If you haven't read it, please do so. You won't be disappointed. Thanks for another great read, Nia Forrester!
I don't know how Nia Forrester does it, but I'm so glad she does! This is great storytelling. I started reading this book on Friday night, after rereading The Come Up. I had to make myself stop reading Friday night, then I had to make myself put it down on Saturday so that I could engage with my family. The struggle was so real, because this story really grabs you and pulls you in. For real, for real.
My boy Jamal lost a little bit of his shine in this one. I was initially side-eyeing Makayla and saying she needed to get with the program and then I remembered that she was still grieving for her grandmother. And had had her whole life uprooted. Had gone from being very independent and an almost full time caregiver, to being fully dependent on Jamal. And he has issues with the only other person who has been a constant in her life. Meanwhile, Jamal is adjusting to his new position and expecting Makayla to fall in line. He wants to keep doing what he's been doing, and she's just supposed to deal with it. Oh, and not keep turning to Devin, her only other constant, because the relationship makes Jamal is uncomfortable. Boy, bye. And don't get me started on the interaction with Madison (ugh!) and Kendrick's wife (Jenna?)
I don't know if I missed it, but I was curious as to why Makayla no longer worked at Scaife. Not sure why that surprised me, but it did. And why did she trust Claire enough to allow her inside the apartment when neither she or Jamal were there? Call me crazy, but I never trusted Claire after she was bold enough to be gazing at Jamal, talking about how handsome he is - the very first time they met. No way would she have been given access to my home. Ol' shameless hussy. I was shocked to find out she wasn't the leak. Anyway, it was nice to see Makayla be young and go out and have fun. To do things with Jamal, but also go out and let her hair down without Jamal. I hope she keeps it up.
I was overjoyed when we started hearing directly from Devin. His pain and unhappiness is almost tangible. He is one of those characters who really touched my heart and made me want to wrap my arms around him. I was so happy to see that he's getting help. And that he's opening himself up to other friendships...and hopefully a relationship. And not with some sweet, wholesome girl, but someone who's as dark and troubled as he is, and doesn't judge, but understands. This pairing, though unexpected, is genius. I know it's gonna be a rollercoaster ride and I cannot wait!
Ok, let me stop myself. As I'm sure you can tell, I loved this book. If you haven't read it, please do so. You won't be disappointed. Thanks for another great read, Nia Forrester!
June 29, 2022
The Takedown
The story of Jamal Turner and Makayla (Kayla) Hughes is inspiring. Devin Parker is her BFF from childhood who loves her enough to let go. I really enjoyed this sequel to "The Come Up."
The story of Jamal Turner and Makayla (Kayla) Hughes is inspiring. Devin Parker is her BFF from childhood who loves her enough to let go. I really enjoyed this sequel to "The Come Up."
September 16, 2017
Pulls me in every time!
I'm giving this book five stars, because Nia just pulls you into a story. Having said that I must say the character of Makayla let me down, I loved her and Jamal in the come up , but her behavior just kinda irked me in this one. I hated how she used her and Devin's relationship as a weapon against Jamal. Anytime he did something she didn't like, she ran to Devin, knowing it would bother Jamal. The Makayla in the come up wouldn't do that. Jamal, while not perfect, loved her anyway. For most of the book I was trying to figure out what was there to love. She didn't bring anything to the table, but whining and complaints. What I did love about this book was, even though I wasn't really feeling Makayla's behavior. The writing was on point as usual. She makes you feel like these are people who you know, who actually exists, and for that Nia deserves kudos. Devin was still a handful at times, but I like Haper for him, she seems to get him, and Lord knows he needs someone to understand all he has been through. It's time for Maykala to hand over the reins to someone else. The ending had me in tears, but it's what needs to happen. I can't wait for what you have next.
I wouldn't mind seeing what happens with Devin and Harper, and I really would love a follow-up on Deuce and Zora, I really loved them.
I'm giving this book five stars, because Nia just pulls you into a story. Having said that I must say the character of Makayla let me down, I loved her and Jamal in the come up , but her behavior just kinda irked me in this one. I hated how she used her and Devin's relationship as a weapon against Jamal. Anytime he did something she didn't like, she ran to Devin, knowing it would bother Jamal. The Makayla in the come up wouldn't do that. Jamal, while not perfect, loved her anyway. For most of the book I was trying to figure out what was there to love. She didn't bring anything to the table, but whining and complaints. What I did love about this book was, even though I wasn't really feeling Makayla's behavior. The writing was on point as usual. She makes you feel like these are people who you know, who actually exists, and for that Nia deserves kudos. Devin was still a handful at times, but I like Haper for him, she seems to get him, and Lord knows he needs someone to understand all he has been through. It's time for Maykala to hand over the reins to someone else. The ending had me in tears, but it's what needs to happen. I can't wait for what you have next.
I wouldn't mind seeing what happens with Devin and Harper, and I really would love a follow-up on Deuce and Zora, I really loved them.
September 1, 2017
Oh my God.
I'm dramatic so when I say I've been waiting forever for this book, I mean it felt like it. It felt like seven years and two hundred days of waiting. Because of that, I devoured it and now I feel so satisfied.
This book was everything. Amazon can have the 5 something dollars again if they want it. It was worth it. I'm sitting here grinning. I'll probably grin while I reread my favorite parts and maybe cry a little on the emotional ones. That. Epilogue. Listen. I'm trying not to spoil BUT that epilogue took me through all the emotions. All of them and was a bittersweet ending to a book full of the kind of perfect imperfections that make real life. This was all I needed. I'd still marry Jamal Turner tomorrow if he stepped off the page LOL
I'm dramatic so when I say I've been waiting forever for this book, I mean it felt like it. It felt like seven years and two hundred days of waiting. Because of that, I devoured it and now I feel so satisfied.
This book was everything. Amazon can have the 5 something dollars again if they want it. It was worth it. I'm sitting here grinning. I'll probably grin while I reread my favorite parts and maybe cry a little on the emotional ones. That. Epilogue. Listen. I'm trying not to spoil BUT that epilogue took me through all the emotions. All of them and was a bittersweet ending to a book full of the kind of perfect imperfections that make real life. This was all I needed. I'd still marry Jamal Turner tomorrow if he stepped off the page LOL
November 29, 2020
Good ending
I’m glad that Kayla and Jamal got their happily ever after, but they both were driving me crazy. I feel like Kayla and Jamal were manufacturing unnecessary drama. Like if they would have had a simple truthful conversation all the drama and misunderstandings would he feel never happened. I feel like Claire was the mole and I kept waiting for her to be exposed.
I’m glad that Kayla and Jamal got their happily ever after, but they both were driving me crazy. I feel like Kayla and Jamal were manufacturing unnecessary drama. Like if they would have had a simple truthful conversation all the drama and misunderstandings would he feel never happened. I feel like Claire was the mole and I kept waiting for her to be exposed.
March 9, 2019
I loved the book, but I wanted to punch Devin in his mouth and shake some sense into Makayla. At times she was annoying AF!! Jamal had the patience of Job, for real!!!
Still a good read though!!👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥
Still a good read though!!👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥
September 1, 2017
5 stars
I have been a fan since the very beginning. Such an emotional read. Yet another
5 golden stars ***** worthy
I have been a fan since the very beginning. Such an emotional read. Yet another
5 golden stars ***** worthy
September 1, 2017
Full of emotions
This book will take you there and thru it. Be prepared to cry and fuss at the characters. Wish I could give this more than 5 stars.
This book will take you there and thru it. Be prepared to cry and fuss at the characters. Wish I could give this more than 5 stars.
September 3, 2017
Wow!
Such a well written book. I laughed,smiled cried and cheered through this one. So many emotions so little time. So looking forward to the next book( hint : Harper and Devin😉)
Such a well written book. I laughed,smiled cried and cheered through this one. So many emotions so little time. So looking forward to the next book( hint : Harper and Devin😉)
September 4, 2017
Good read!
This book was very good! I expected nothing less of Nia. I was glad to read the tidbits from Robyn
This book was very good! I expected nothing less of Nia. I was glad to read the tidbits from Robyn
September 10, 2017
And another one!
Nia, you did it girl! I'm gone be biased because in my extensive library, there are only a few heroes that can just "get it",but that Jamal Turner is vying for the top spot! Ms.Forrester you penned that thang so smooth, you had me cursing, crying, just emotional. It's legit though! Tackling co-dependence, naivete, trust, adultry, sexual abuse, and insecurity while crafting an enjoyable read that I can't be out down is a gift. A you have it!!! Well done!
Nia, you did it girl! I'm gone be biased because in my extensive library, there are only a few heroes that can just "get it",but that Jamal Turner is vying for the top spot! Ms.Forrester you penned that thang so smooth, you had me cursing, crying, just emotional. It's legit though! Tackling co-dependence, naivete, trust, adultry, sexual abuse, and insecurity while crafting an enjoyable read that I can't be out down is a gift. A you have it!!! Well done!
September 11, 2017
Another great one in my favorite series, Commitment. Nia really did it with this one. I started reading this book and stopped to re-read The Come up. Jamal and Kayla had a very rocky road to get to their HEA. But, as always, love prevails. Would love to read more on Devin and Harper. Great job Nia.
September 5, 2017
Wow
What can I say about Ms. Nia?? She is fantastic. This was just good. I enjoyed it all. Jamal and Kay was a great couple. I'm just glad they went thru minor things. That Devin, whew. I like his complicated self. I would like to read more about the other characters in the book. Great read!
What can I say about Ms. Nia?? She is fantastic. This was just good. I enjoyed it all. Jamal and Kay was a great couple. I'm just glad they went thru minor things. That Devin, whew. I like his complicated self. I would like to read more about the other characters in the book. Great read!
September 7, 2017
Even Better than the Come up!!!
I am so glad that Jamal and Kayla story continued.
The continuation was better than their first story❤️
I laughed, I cried , I laughed again.
I am so glad that Jamal and Kayla story continued.
The continuation was better than their first story❤️
I laughed, I cried , I laughed again.
September 5, 2017
I love everything this author writes. This whole series is just fantastic. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would. Keep up the good work Nia and I look forward he reading about Devin and Harper. Fingers crossed
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