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Axel Chamberlain hadn’t foreseen ending one relationship, only to find himself immersed in another soon after.

Emersyn Myers, on the other hand, returned to Los Angeles with her heart open to putting down roots in the city she’s always known as home.

For these two—while the unexpected had occurred—it was what they needed most.

*Please note, this is a full-length standalone novel drenched in pure unadulterated black love.

201 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 19, 2021

41 people are currently reading
138 people want to read

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Asia Monique

59 books1,075 followers

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5 stars
406 (66%)
4 stars
154 (25%)
3 stars
48 (7%)
2 stars
2 (<1%)
1 star
2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
Profile Image for Kameel.
1,064 reviews292 followers
May 21, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 Stars

Man, it took this story a minute to warm up….Not sure if it was the narration or the story….This was a simplistic story of boy meets girl at a family/friend function…a few years later the two run into each other again (or were they set up) share a love of fast food chicken, encounter some small obstacles…but, eventually become a couple.
Profile Image for Jahda.
1,052 reviews317 followers
April 26, 2023
Axel and Emersyn had a sweet instant romance. I like that they fought for their love. The pair expressed their love and feelings in a very expressive way. Reading about adult lovers who genuinely know what they want is refreshing. The idea of a matchmaker seemed charming. I'm glad Asia didn't choose the strategy of putting each sibling together but pairing them each a different partner.
Profile Image for JBucky.
454 reviews32 followers
May 16, 2023
What a good way to come back! Axel & Emersyn’s relationship was as honest as one could be from the beginning! They’d both been craving the love that each provided for one another. The fact that Emersyn was adamant about not changing who she was for anyone was admirable! What made me like her even MORE was that she told off that pesky old ex Keira & was still classy with it, my kind of girl! I loved the ending as well. Definitely bounced back from book 2 👏🏾👏🏾!
Profile Image for Bree.
471 reviews34 followers
October 13, 2021
Good but wish the ending was longer.

Government contractor Eme decides she’s tired of traveling the world and decides it’s time to come home to her family. There she meets Axel, her sister’s brother in law, who is hoping to one day find the same happiness his brothers have found. When these two meet again, it’s an instant connection.

I loved both of these characters a lot! Why you ask? Well it’s because the author wrote two mature adults who know how to communicate. They didn’t overreact to things or keep feelings, thoughts, events hidden and that was refreshing.

Seeing this two get to know each other was great, I could’ve read more of them hanging out watching Doctor Who it was so precious. I wish the last 15% of the book would’ve been a little longer so we could see a little more of everything. Also, a longer epilogue or making it farther into the future would’ve been great because I want to see the little family that Axel was craving!

Overall, good read. My first read by this author, but not my last.
Profile Image for Dahyana.
695 reviews86 followers
October 18, 2021
Emersyn Ɛ Axel

When Asia said this book was "drenched in pure unadulterated black love", she wasn't kidding. The love in this book started flowing from page one and didn't stop till the last page. That's why I love Asia's book so much. The way her characters express love in the most beautiful, touching and heart felt way is so refreshing. The love was almost tangible. These black families have everything. They had wealth, education, friends, families and love and they cherished everything and everyone so well. So, definitely pick this one up.
Profile Image for Wind.
329 reviews3 followers
November 12, 2025
Emersyn and Axel a second chance encounter leads to love.
Profile Image for KarynReads.
622 reviews19 followers
July 7, 2023
My favorite so far in the series! This was pure ROMANCE! And I loved every bit of it.
Profile Image for Lyasha Chante.
140 reviews4 followers
February 29, 2024
Foremost” by Asia Monique, the third book in the Mullaney-Chamberlain series, delves into the life of Axel Chamberlain, the eldest sibling in the Chamberlain family. The novel elegantly unfolds Axel’s quest for genuine connection and fulfillment beyond the glittering veneer of socialite life. After spending three years in a seemingly perfect relationship with a fellow socialite, Axel comes to the realization that something pivotal is missing. Surrounded by loved ones who have found deep, meaningful relationships, including his best friend Drew and his younger brother Asan, Axel decides to reset his life’s priorities. He ends his relationship and takes the helm of his father’s company, embarking on a journey to rediscover himself and find true love.

Asia Monique brilliantly crafts a narrative that explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the essence of finding “the one.” Axel’s story takes a turn when he meets Emersyn the cousin of Kendra, his brother’s wife. She is a strong, independent woman retiring from a significant career in governmental work, looking to lay down roots in Los Angeles. A casual conversation over bourbon and a daring “married at first sight” experiment quickly escalates into an engagement, setting the stage for a romance that is both heartwarming and intoxicating.

The relationship between Axel and Emersyn is beautifully portrayed, highlighting the unexpected paths love can take. Their connection is palpable, evolving from serendipitous to deeply intertwined, showcasing Monique’s ability to weave complex emotional dynamics with ease. The novel is a perfect blend of sexiness and sweetness, capturing the thrill of new love and the depth of emotional bonding.
438 reviews5 followers
September 25, 2021
Pure, unadulterated black love indeed!

This was probably one of the best black romance stories I’ve read in a while, and believe me I’ve read several! It was the open communication and honesty for me! The willingness to fall despite minor reservations! The love and support from family and friends. The drama was at minimum, which made this story so much better because it allowed our focus to be on Emersyn and Axel. Great job Asia! Now give me more!
1,414 reviews12 followers
October 6, 2021
Excellent!!!

Woohoo! Axel got his person!!! Yay!!! Emersyn is perfect for Axel! They are such an adorable couple. I love the Mullaney Chamberlain series. Definitely one of my favorites!!’
Profile Image for Katie ratherbereadinggg.
1,421 reviews43 followers
October 4, 2023
3.5 stars The first third or so of the book was kind of slow. After that I did enjoy getting to know the characters, but it was pretty much instalove and no conflict so I was a bit bored. I think folks who like low angst would enjoy more than I did.
Profile Image for Mia Morgan.
1,144 reviews32 followers
August 27, 2023
Ok

After book 2, I didn't think I wanted to continue. I liked Axel story. Eme was my girl. Good read.
Profile Image for QuettaThaGreatVirgoQueen.
101 reviews5 followers
September 21, 2021


I love all your stories because they show pure black love without all the drama. I enjoyed this read it was quick and easy. Thank you!
Profile Image for Toya  Davis-Stokley.
2,553 reviews100 followers
September 29, 2021
Asia, I already know what it is when I read one of your books. Little drama, and black love at its finest! I loved Miss Emersyn! She was a geek, but an around the way girl too! She was mild mannered, and about her business, until you pushed her! Then she was coming for the jugular! 😂 Although Emersyn and Axel, had only met once before, their flirty connection after all those years told a story of its own! Both missing something in their lives, not really sure where life was taking them; only to find everything in each other! They were so adorable together! I know we are running out of siblings, but keep this series going! Loving it! 👍👍👍
Profile Image for Q. Moore.
963 reviews38 followers
September 29, 2021
When you know, you just know....

Ms. Monique, I am fully invested in this series. I have no clue who is coming next, but I am surely anticipating. I absolutely adored this Insta-love story between Axel and Emersyn. It goes to show when you meet your soul mate the two souls automatically recognizes the other. The heart wants what the heart wants and no one stands in the way of it. When a man knows who his wife is, its no time constraints. Axel was with his ex for years and never married her, but married Emersyn within months of dating.

Axel and Emersyn deserves this forty year type of love. Axel's ex was trying her hardest to make him look like a loser. He wasn't, Keira just had a dark soul and a vendetta against him. She wanted too much attention while keeping the unnecessary drama going. Emersyn needed to experience real love of a man not the example her father shown during her upbringing.

This is another terrific read that will pull you in. The Mullaney sisters and Chamberlain brothers are quite the characters. You will enjoy reading about each of them because they are all individually unique. Of course, my favorite part of this book was when Axel called his mother to ask what to get for Emersyn during her cycle. I loved how thoughtful he was. It spoke volumes because its plenty of women who would want that attention and cuddles during that time of the month from their man. Download and indulge, you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Lizzy Clark.
830 reviews29 followers
March 7, 2022
Yyyaaayyy👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾!!!

Queen Asia Monique has worked her pen magic again with this third installment in this series. This insta-love was extra beautiful cause Axe finally found his one💕
Kiera didn't stand a chance. She thought her internet antics were gonna get greet back in the Chamberlain crew, but got the shock of her life.
I was proud of Axel for realizing his relationship with Kiera wasn't meant to be and ending it. I knew she wasn't it when he showed up at the Mullaney-Chamberlain sibling dinner without her. That man wanted true unconditional love and he fought it the moment he crossed paths again with Emersyn😏. These two were inseparable from the moment they connected. I enjoyed watching their journey to getting to know each other and even going through therapy session.
Always a joy catching up with the rest of the crew💕
YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Profile Image for Beverly.
768 reviews7 followers
October 21, 2021
Awww

Every time I have completed a book in this series I think “ This is my favorite” well after reading “Foremost” Axel and Emyre have me thinking this is absolutely my favorite 😂. These two had me laughing and awwwing throughout the whole Book.

Emyre is truly a women after my own heart ..,a take no prisoners type who you definitely don’t want to cross or underestimate as one character in the book tried to do 😂the outcome of that was definitely a drop the mic kind of moment😂

I’m in love with each of the Chamberlin men because although
They may favor each has their own special swag.

I say , read the entire series starting with book one you won’t be disappointed ☺️❤️
116 reviews
December 12, 2023
Lacked Build-Up

This book was extremely well written and had a decent premise but it lacked a build-up to the characters coming together. I don’t think that drama was necessary but to have instant chemistry followed by instant love especially for a multi millionaire tycoon who just came out of a relationship with someone who was shady, seemed a bit u realistic; at a minimum he should have been guarded and even if not emotionally for protection of his company and brand. Please let me know where the vulnerable/wide open medial moguls are (sigh).

I almost didn’t finish the book but wanted to see how it all unfolded. Again, well written but lacked a necessary ingredient—build-up!
Profile Image for Micaiah.
Author 4 books19 followers
September 27, 2021
solid series

I really enjoy this series. I loved Axel and Emersyn, love the stories where people discover what they didn't even know they were looking for. Love the story even more when there's a confident and boss babe in it. Axel sounds like book bae material for real, what woman doesn't want to experience love in action. Of course, they had their small tests but their honest and open communication was great.
84 reviews
September 27, 2021
Geesh!

I just love love love the writing of Asia Monique! She is true to her craft and each book gets better. The immediate connection with Eme and Axe was so satisfying…I love a woman who knows who she is…Eme went for it all without holding back and I loved every minute of it! The way that Axe made sure she was taking care of physically, emotionally and spiritually was so mature. As always, excellent work Asia Monique! Click buy and be happy.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
286 reviews
October 30, 2021
Soooo good ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Axel is baeeeeeee!!!! Eme was so dope and they were meant to be together. They literally never crossed paths in 10 years and when they did they knew they were each other’s destiny.

I loved these characters, storyline and the continuation of this family so much.

I highly recommend this series because this author did a fantastic job with the connection and love!!
602 reviews5 followers
November 24, 2021
I found her

I can't believe I found her, is the way Axel seemed when approaching Em at the bar. Who would have thought sharing the love for a little bourbon on the rocks would end up like this. These characters aren't fun like the others but the instant charismatic pull is everything. These two are the soul mate characters of the series. Very good read but I did want Em to slap Keira.
Profile Image for Readaholic Running Realtor.
106 reviews9 followers
October 25, 2025
Now book 3 I actually enjoy this book however, I tell you all the time people will waste your time until they find what they’re truly looking for. And when you’re so unequal yolk, it shows in all aspects.

I finish the series just because I started a book one.

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.
1,708 reviews7 followers
September 22, 2021
When you know you know 😍😍

One thing I can say about the Chamberlain Brothers when they fall in love they move fast. Axel isn't any different when he meets Emersyn again the instant attraction takes over. Wonderfully written story. As always it was an absolute pleasure reading this book🥰.
Profile Image for Tonia.
3,520 reviews11 followers
September 24, 2021
Forever and Foremost

These Chamberlain Men makes you wish that you was the one in their books with them. Axe and Eme are started their family and I can't wait until the next book so I can find out what they had. Please put Keira in a looney bin in the next book cause she was too delusional 🤣😂
Profile Image for Geri.
1,192 reviews6 followers
September 25, 2021
The geeky girl in me loved Emersyn

Foremost, these two were an unstoppable force once they met at a singles event. Everything that happened after that was unconventional, but unique like the two of them. I loved reading Axel and Emersyn’s story, it was a great addition to the Mullaney-Chamberlain series.
220 reviews1 follower
April 15, 2022
Emer and Axel

I enjoyed reading this story. I believe timing is everything when it comes to love. I glad they met again at the right time. We do need to pay attention to people aura because love can blind you, until something unexpected happens to give you clarity about that individual. I can’t see what you have next for us!
Profile Image for Misey_J.
36 reviews
September 23, 2021
Real Love ❤

Loved everything about Eme and Axe! There connection was quick and real, I literally couldn't put this book down. Nothing like finding what you've always wanted and not being concerned about how quick love happens. Another amazing story from Asia!
19 reviews
September 26, 2021
Loved it!

I'm not sure if Asia is a Virgo but she definitely knows one! Emersyn could've been me, our Virgo tendencies are so similar (down to our love of food). I thoroughly enjoyed this book. One of the best this year.
4 reviews
September 27, 2021
Love alway

I love love this back Asia Monique is my best Arthur her writing is so great her character have real emotion that make you feel them right off the page keep doing what you do Ms. Asia
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews

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