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Worth the Wait
In the wake of the pandemic, Val Nardi’s dreams hang by a thread. Putting her own aspirations aside, she decides to help her brother and goes to work in his restaurant. But the sacrifice she’s made means her dreams might be forever out of reach.
Then everything changes when she crosses paths with the enigmatic and successful software engineer, Dr. Susan Castle.
As Val fights to save her family’s business and rebuild her life, Susan’s intriguing presence is something she can’t ignore. Despite the odds stacked against them—the attraction between them is undeniable.
With Val’s determination and Susan’s support, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and love. But can they overcome their differences and take a chance on happiness? One kiss could change everything. But is it worth the wait?
Then everything changes when she crosses paths with the enigmatic and successful software engineer, Dr. Susan Castle.
As Val fights to save her family’s business and rebuild her life, Susan’s intriguing presence is something she can’t ignore. Despite the odds stacked against them—the attraction between them is undeniable.
With Val’s determination and Susan’s support, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and love. But can they overcome their differences and take a chance on happiness? One kiss could change everything. But is it worth the wait?
242 pages, Paperback
Published August 20, 2024
9 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Kenna White
22 books91 followersAward winner, Kenna White, has been a best-selling romance author with Bella Books since 2004. She was born in a small town in Southwest Missouri, but has lived from the Colorado Rocky Mountains to New England. Splitting time between Puget Sound and the Ozarks where bare feet, faded jeans and lazy streams fill her life, she enjoys her writing, traveling, substitute teaching, making dollhouse miniatures and life's simpler pleasures.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
August 21, 2024
Val is a server and a cook in her brother’s Italian restaurant. Val is a very generous and giving person to her family, anytime they need something they come to her for help. She meets Susan Castle by accident when her nephew makes a pizza delivery to her house on accident. Susan is an IT professional who has sold her very successful company and now is doing consulting.
From the first meeting, Val is amazed with Susan and her professional but very private personality. She doesn’t understand why she’s drawn to her but she keeps meeting her on accident and is always trying to get to know her more. Soon they both start with little touches of affection but Susan is also aloof and retreats back into herself.
I really liked both characters, Val was terrific, she never gave up on the chance that she and Susan could be in a relationship. She had so much patience and kindness to everyone.
This book wasn’t perfect but it spoke to me. The way the relationship developed between Val and Susan felt real and personal . Yes it’s an age gap story but it didn’t feel that way with the women’s personalities.
This is my first book by White and I will definitely be reading some books in her back catalogue.
Thanks to Bella Books and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
From the first meeting, Val is amazed with Susan and her professional but very private personality. She doesn’t understand why she’s drawn to her but she keeps meeting her on accident and is always trying to get to know her more. Soon they both start with little touches of affection but Susan is also aloof and retreats back into herself.
I really liked both characters, Val was terrific, she never gave up on the chance that she and Susan could be in a relationship. She had so much patience and kindness to everyone.
This book wasn’t perfect but it spoke to me. The way the relationship developed between Val and Susan felt real and personal . Yes it’s an age gap story but it didn’t feel that way with the women’s personalities.
This is my first book by White and I will definitely be reading some books in her back catalogue.
Thanks to Bella Books and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
August 16, 2024
In this the sibling and sister in law, so far have no redeeming features. I can’t say I’m buying in to why one main would stay working with them. 75% and I really do not like any of the family. One main is used as a doormat. The other characters, apart from a grandma aren’t even likeable. The other main doesn’t seem to have much family but they seem to be users too. Most customers aren’t pleasant. This is a book populated by not nice people. None of them, except the mains.
There is then a plot device that irritated me.
Then a meddling friend irritated me.
Then, of course a bit of distance between the mains, and three minutes reading left in the book…..
A book should make you feel. I might have felt irritated and had feelings of dislike but I did feel.
There is then a plot device that irritated me.
Then a meddling friend irritated me.
Then, of course a bit of distance between the mains, and three minutes reading left in the book…..
A book should make you feel. I might have felt irritated and had feelings of dislike but I did feel.
August 31, 2024
Stories that center on themes of sacrifice, family and love always seem to resonate deeply with readers. Such is the case with Worth the Wait by Kenna White. It embodies these themes wonderfully as it tells the story of Val Nardi as she is forced to rebuild her life and help her family’s business recover post pandemic. Built on solid storytelling, White’s narrative is richly layered with relatable characters and heartfelt scenes. It has the power to evoke compelling emotions within readers, making it an intriguing read.
Because it takes place during the time period immediately following the pandemic, the setting plays an important role in the storytelling. Val suffers several significant losses due to the pandemic and it ultimately forces her to rebuild her life. While waiting for better opportunities and finances, she is asked to help support her brother’s struggling restaurant. Though family loyalty and commitment run deep in her blood, her aid comes with great personal sacrifice. The challenges she faces at her brother’s restaurant propel her to question her value in the family. However, it is only after an encounter with a customer, Dr. Susan Castle, that she begins to realize her true strengths and talents.
Dr. Susan Castle is pivotal to the storytelling in many ways. She is portrayed as a confident and self-assured individual who has carved out her own path in the competitive but lucrative field of computer programming and software. Although Susan’s success contrasts sharply with Val’s struggles, it also serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging Val to reclaim her life and dreams. Susan becomes somewhat of a mentor to Val, helping her regain her autonomy and sense of self. As this happens, their relationship unexpectedly grows into something more than friendship, adding layers of excitement and anticipation to the narrative. Furthermore, the chemistry that emerges between the two women is nearly palpable, making the slow trek towards love both heartwarming and engaging. Readers are easily drawn into the complexities of their relationship, causing them to root for them as they work to overcome the obstacles that seemingly stand in their way.
The dynamics that exist between Val and Susan are truly captivating. While Val struggles with duty and desire, Susan struggles with vulnerability and trust. This contrast not only heightens the stakes but also provides fertile ground for character growth. As they open up to one another, they create a safe space for each other to explore their priorities, passions and deepest desires. White does a nice job scripting this budding romance, effectively spotlighting the idea that love can be a catalyst for positive, healthy change. It is only when Val and Susan are forced to confront their fears that they are able to fully embrace their true selves.
Final remarks…
Worth the Wait offers readers an engaging, solidly crafted narrative, one that explores themes of sacrifice, love and perseverance. However, its true appeal lies in its well developed, relatable characters. Through their journey, readers are reminded of the power of selflessness and the importance of never giving up. Ultimately though, White’s tale is a celebration of the human spirit, showcasing that even in the face of adversity and hardship, the pursuit of happiness and love is a journey worth taking.
Strengths…
Engaging
Relatable
Compelling characters
Heartfelt romantic tension
Because it takes place during the time period immediately following the pandemic, the setting plays an important role in the storytelling. Val suffers several significant losses due to the pandemic and it ultimately forces her to rebuild her life. While waiting for better opportunities and finances, she is asked to help support her brother’s struggling restaurant. Though family loyalty and commitment run deep in her blood, her aid comes with great personal sacrifice. The challenges she faces at her brother’s restaurant propel her to question her value in the family. However, it is only after an encounter with a customer, Dr. Susan Castle, that she begins to realize her true strengths and talents.
Dr. Susan Castle is pivotal to the storytelling in many ways. She is portrayed as a confident and self-assured individual who has carved out her own path in the competitive but lucrative field of computer programming and software. Although Susan’s success contrasts sharply with Val’s struggles, it also serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging Val to reclaim her life and dreams. Susan becomes somewhat of a mentor to Val, helping her regain her autonomy and sense of self. As this happens, their relationship unexpectedly grows into something more than friendship, adding layers of excitement and anticipation to the narrative. Furthermore, the chemistry that emerges between the two women is nearly palpable, making the slow trek towards love both heartwarming and engaging. Readers are easily drawn into the complexities of their relationship, causing them to root for them as they work to overcome the obstacles that seemingly stand in their way.
The dynamics that exist between Val and Susan are truly captivating. While Val struggles with duty and desire, Susan struggles with vulnerability and trust. This contrast not only heightens the stakes but also provides fertile ground for character growth. As they open up to one another, they create a safe space for each other to explore their priorities, passions and deepest desires. White does a nice job scripting this budding romance, effectively spotlighting the idea that love can be a catalyst for positive, healthy change. It is only when Val and Susan are forced to confront their fears that they are able to fully embrace their true selves.
Final remarks…
Worth the Wait offers readers an engaging, solidly crafted narrative, one that explores themes of sacrifice, love and perseverance. However, its true appeal lies in its well developed, relatable characters. Through their journey, readers are reminded of the power of selflessness and the importance of never giving up. Ultimately though, White’s tale is a celebration of the human spirit, showcasing that even in the face of adversity and hardship, the pursuit of happiness and love is a journey worth taking.
Strengths…
Engaging
Relatable
Compelling characters
Heartfelt romantic tension
August 8, 2024
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There's a few things I liked about this book and a few things I disliked. The way that the author describes the challenges of the economy during and after Covid, and Val's realistic reactions to her difficult family are really well done. As well, I enjoyed the progession of the relationship between Val and Susan. Things between them start off very rocky but eventually they start to progress into friendship and things take off from there.
As for the things I disliked, I didn't like many of the other characters. I thought Val's family was honestly really awful in the way they constantly took advantage of her. In addition, Susan's friend Jillian initially seemed fine and even encouraging Susan to enter a relationship. However, by the end of the book she does a one-eighty and actually somewhat sabotages their relationship.
The book was one challenge after another befalling the characters, and their relationship somehow progressing despite these obstacles. As well, I did feel the ending was pretty abrupt and a bit rushed.
Overall though, the book was interesting, had cute moments, and made me incredibly hungry for delicious pizza and calzones. 3.4/5
There's a few things I liked about this book and a few things I disliked. The way that the author describes the challenges of the economy during and after Covid, and Val's realistic reactions to her difficult family are really well done. As well, I enjoyed the progession of the relationship between Val and Susan. Things between them start off very rocky but eventually they start to progress into friendship and things take off from there.
As for the things I disliked, I didn't like many of the other characters. I thought Val's family was honestly really awful in the way they constantly took advantage of her. In addition, Susan's friend Jillian initially seemed fine and even encouraging Susan to enter a relationship. However, by the end of the book she does a one-eighty and actually somewhat sabotages their relationship.
The book was one challenge after another befalling the characters, and their relationship somehow progressing despite these obstacles. As well, I did feel the ending was pretty abrupt and a bit rushed.
Overall though, the book was interesting, had cute moments, and made me incredibly hungry for delicious pizza and calzones. 3.4/5
January 22, 2025
2.5 meh
September 7, 2024
An age gap, later in life romance. Can a notoriously kind woman win the heart of the distant and much older computer geek?
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Val Nardi has felt the effects of the COVID pandemic both personally and professionally. She lost her partner to the virus and the cleaning business they built together. Now, she is working for the family’s Italian restaurant mostly to help out her brother Joe. He did everything to keep the business open during that difficult time. Val doesn’t mind but it’s not her dream of being a waitress. She is also aware of her family not respecting her boundaries, asking her to work double shifts often or come to their rescue in other ways. When she meets Dr. Susan Castle their paths seem to cross very often. Susan’s friendship and clear view of Val as a person become very important in Val’s life. And even though Susan is considerably older, Val can’t stop the growing feelings she has for her new friend. They are very different people, but does that matter in the long run?
It took me a while to really get into this story. The writing didn’t flow well and I thought the setup of the characters took a little too long before anything significant happened. Once it did though, I definitely wanted to keep reading.
Val is as sweet as they come, in fact her family often takes advantage of her kindness because Val wants to help everyone where she can. She is the same with Susan. The beautiful thing is that Susan does not take her kind disposition lightly. Susan appreciates Val as a person. The more time they spend together, the more they are drawn to each other. Susan is the opposite of Val. She keeps her distance and has no interest in physical contact, but Val seems to defrost her over time. Susan worries about the vast age difference between them even though Val couldn’t care less. It’s really sweet when they finally come together and express their love.
I love stories about older women and I don’t mean women in their forties as is the case in most of the ‘live later in life’-romances. The fact that Susan is 63 makes her all the more interesting. She is set in her ways, but somehow allows Val into her inner sanctum. That’s proof of a very strong connection. I’d really like to see more stories where the main characters have already lived a whole life before a new romance starts. Because it’s never too late to love, right?
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Val Nardi has felt the effects of the COVID pandemic both personally and professionally. She lost her partner to the virus and the cleaning business they built together. Now, she is working for the family’s Italian restaurant mostly to help out her brother Joe. He did everything to keep the business open during that difficult time. Val doesn’t mind but it’s not her dream of being a waitress. She is also aware of her family not respecting her boundaries, asking her to work double shifts often or come to their rescue in other ways. When she meets Dr. Susan Castle their paths seem to cross very often. Susan’s friendship and clear view of Val as a person become very important in Val’s life. And even though Susan is considerably older, Val can’t stop the growing feelings she has for her new friend. They are very different people, but does that matter in the long run?
It took me a while to really get into this story. The writing didn’t flow well and I thought the setup of the characters took a little too long before anything significant happened. Once it did though, I definitely wanted to keep reading.
Val is as sweet as they come, in fact her family often takes advantage of her kindness because Val wants to help everyone where she can. She is the same with Susan. The beautiful thing is that Susan does not take her kind disposition lightly. Susan appreciates Val as a person. The more time they spend together, the more they are drawn to each other. Susan is the opposite of Val. She keeps her distance and has no interest in physical contact, but Val seems to defrost her over time. Susan worries about the vast age difference between them even though Val couldn’t care less. It’s really sweet when they finally come together and express their love.
I love stories about older women and I don’t mean women in their forties as is the case in most of the ‘live later in life’-romances. The fact that Susan is 63 makes her all the more interesting. She is set in her ways, but somehow allows Val into her inner sanctum. That’s proof of a very strong connection. I’d really like to see more stories where the main characters have already lived a whole life before a new romance starts. Because it’s never too late to love, right?
December 20, 2024
**This review is for the book and the audiobook**
Truth be told, the nature of Val's personality and some of the characters' truly abhorrent behaviour throughout the story had, unfortunately, caused me some aggro moments whilst reading which dampened my enjoyment of reading the story thoroughly. The only saving grace (bless!) for me was Susan. I wish she had more scenes in it. Despite being the other MC, it was evident that White chose to focus on Val's journey. Whilst I know real life doesn't always come with redemption or a change of heart, mind and behaviour, rather, it's more common that people tend to fall into the stereotypical human condition without a hint of any change, I was still wishing, as I read through the book, that Val would eventually shed her [pardon my French!] doormat behavioural trait.
But then, I also knew that it meant White really hit the nail on the head in portraying a brutally honest and uncomfortably realistic character in Val(entine), who was unapologetically steadfast and comfortable (enough) in her own skin even though at times she hated not being able to stand up to the bullies in her life and speak up for herself.
Here's where I truly appreciate White's honesty in portraying a doormat - that sometimes, someone like Val would have an acute outburst of her real feelings in reaction (soft retaliation) to a personal attack, albeit after the umpteenth time. White absolutely nails the nuance of that moment of uncharacteristic jolt of anger after being triggered one too many times. Everyone has a line. I know people in my life who're exactly like Val and I must say, I'd be so aggro when I saw unfair things happening to them which they'd just allow to happen even though they made them very sad or furious especially with people's unkindness, pettiness, all-around arsehole-ry, yet they just took the blows to their emotional and mental/psychological sense of being. Infuriating moments of observation.
So, when I was reading Val's predicament, with her own family treating her with such contempt and she just absorbed the blows, however ridiculous, allowing them to get off scott-free just brought back all the memories of me having observed similar situations in people I knew and I wanted to stop reading. But I persisted because I realised that it was most probably White's intention of provoking that emotion in those of us who would otherwise fight back or stand up, and also putting a mirror in front of those readers who might be in the same boat as Val. With that mindset, I'd say White has succeeded. At least for me. I would never stand for injustice, bad faith, unsavoury behavior, all-around arseholes who are begging to be scolded or walloped! But then, when I'm being forced to read about Val and her default doormat/submissive behaviour and delve into her inner psyche, I'm being reminded that there are people out there who just chose to be that way and nobody has the right to force them to be someone they're not. So, who am I to say otherwise, right?
For me personally, Val's character serves as a reminder of a few people I've known in my life who didn't choose to be like that, rather, it's just their nature. And they have a way of going through life in their own terms. It doesn't matter if others agree or not because at the end of the day, it's their innate right to choose how to live and go through their lives. It's all about the human experience, good or bad, right or wrong, light or dark. It's personal. For that, White did her job in showcasing the contrast between Val and Susan. Not that Susan didn't have her own character idiosyncrasies as well but she was the very character who'd never, ever allow anyone to bulldoze her in any way, shape or form. So, it was an ideal contrast between the 2 characters to explore and contemplate the state of the human condition whilst going through life's trials and tribulations, reconciling what we can or can't change.
Now, listening to Abby Craden portray these characters, with her tremendous zeal in navigating her wide range of vocal artistry, only further amplified the emotional effects that were hidden in-between the lines. In particular, Val's constant turmoil when faced with verbal cruelty that she could never confront that weighed heavily on her, was portrayed through choreographing her voice in such delicate subtlety that spoke emotional volumes. The effect was acutely more visceral than reading it. I could feel it in my gut, this suffocating sense of helplessness and frustration, the silent aggravation simmering just beneath the surface.. And it was all down to Craden being able to embody that level of raw authenticity in her voice to bring this quietly-charged story and its realistic characters to life.
I absolutely enjoyed Susan's clearly neurodivergent character, her distinct peculiarities so vividly personified by Craden that it resonated endearingly within me. What a welcome contrast from Val's in every way, especially in the art of communication. Susan's was always clear, concise, honest and dare I say, unrelenting! So well-written and understood by White/Craden for both of these imperfectly perfect souls!
Again, I wonder if White deliberately crafted them this way so that we could appreciate the beauty of polar opposites eventually coming together in union through the power of love. But not before going through their fair share of angst! Such is the life that we are given to explore in this realm we call the human experience, innit? As the saying goes, "the hardest things in life yields the biggest rewards."
In other words, true love is... "Worth the Wait," as White so aptly titled this story! I see what you did there, White! Brilliant motif! Well done! Another great collaboration between White and Craden.
Read the words. Listen to the visual voice. Experience it.
Truth be told, the nature of Val's personality and some of the characters' truly abhorrent behaviour throughout the story had, unfortunately, caused me some aggro moments whilst reading which dampened my enjoyment of reading the story thoroughly. The only saving grace (bless!) for me was Susan. I wish she had more scenes in it. Despite being the other MC, it was evident that White chose to focus on Val's journey. Whilst I know real life doesn't always come with redemption or a change of heart, mind and behaviour, rather, it's more common that people tend to fall into the stereotypical human condition without a hint of any change, I was still wishing, as I read through the book, that Val would eventually shed her [pardon my French!] doormat behavioural trait.
But then, I also knew that it meant White really hit the nail on the head in portraying a brutally honest and uncomfortably realistic character in Val(entine), who was unapologetically steadfast and comfortable (enough) in her own skin even though at times she hated not being able to stand up to the bullies in her life and speak up for herself.
Here's where I truly appreciate White's honesty in portraying a doormat - that sometimes, someone like Val would have an acute outburst of her real feelings in reaction (soft retaliation) to a personal attack, albeit after the umpteenth time. White absolutely nails the nuance of that moment of uncharacteristic jolt of anger after being triggered one too many times. Everyone has a line. I know people in my life who're exactly like Val and I must say, I'd be so aggro when I saw unfair things happening to them which they'd just allow to happen even though they made them very sad or furious especially with people's unkindness, pettiness, all-around arsehole-ry, yet they just took the blows to their emotional and mental/psychological sense of being. Infuriating moments of observation.
So, when I was reading Val's predicament, with her own family treating her with such contempt and she just absorbed the blows, however ridiculous, allowing them to get off scott-free just brought back all the memories of me having observed similar situations in people I knew and I wanted to stop reading. But I persisted because I realised that it was most probably White's intention of provoking that emotion in those of us who would otherwise fight back or stand up, and also putting a mirror in front of those readers who might be in the same boat as Val. With that mindset, I'd say White has succeeded. At least for me. I would never stand for injustice, bad faith, unsavoury behavior, all-around arseholes who are begging to be scolded or walloped! But then, when I'm being forced to read about Val and her default doormat/submissive behaviour and delve into her inner psyche, I'm being reminded that there are people out there who just chose to be that way and nobody has the right to force them to be someone they're not. So, who am I to say otherwise, right?
For me personally, Val's character serves as a reminder of a few people I've known in my life who didn't choose to be like that, rather, it's just their nature. And they have a way of going through life in their own terms. It doesn't matter if others agree or not because at the end of the day, it's their innate right to choose how to live and go through their lives. It's all about the human experience, good or bad, right or wrong, light or dark. It's personal. For that, White did her job in showcasing the contrast between Val and Susan. Not that Susan didn't have her own character idiosyncrasies as well but she was the very character who'd never, ever allow anyone to bulldoze her in any way, shape or form. So, it was an ideal contrast between the 2 characters to explore and contemplate the state of the human condition whilst going through life's trials and tribulations, reconciling what we can or can't change.
Now, listening to Abby Craden portray these characters, with her tremendous zeal in navigating her wide range of vocal artistry, only further amplified the emotional effects that were hidden in-between the lines. In particular, Val's constant turmoil when faced with verbal cruelty that she could never confront that weighed heavily on her, was portrayed through choreographing her voice in such delicate subtlety that spoke emotional volumes. The effect was acutely more visceral than reading it. I could feel it in my gut, this suffocating sense of helplessness and frustration, the silent aggravation simmering just beneath the surface.. And it was all down to Craden being able to embody that level of raw authenticity in her voice to bring this quietly-charged story and its realistic characters to life.
I absolutely enjoyed Susan's clearly neurodivergent character, her distinct peculiarities so vividly personified by Craden that it resonated endearingly within me. What a welcome contrast from Val's in every way, especially in the art of communication. Susan's was always clear, concise, honest and dare I say, unrelenting! So well-written and understood by White/Craden for both of these imperfectly perfect souls!
Again, I wonder if White deliberately crafted them this way so that we could appreciate the beauty of polar opposites eventually coming together in union through the power of love. But not before going through their fair share of angst! Such is the life that we are given to explore in this realm we call the human experience, innit? As the saying goes, "the hardest things in life yields the biggest rewards."
In other words, true love is... "Worth the Wait," as White so aptly titled this story! I see what you did there, White! Brilliant motif! Well done! Another great collaboration between White and Craden.
Read the words. Listen to the visual voice. Experience it.
August 13, 2024
Val Nardi is still recovering from the Covid pandemic. She lost her business and her partner during that time period. Now she gets by working for her brother in the family’s Italian restaurant. It managed to survive the lean years but only barely. She meets Dr. Susan Castle at the restaurant when she comes to complain about the rudeness of their delivery boy, who happens to be Val’s nephew and the owner's son. Their meetings start incidentally with Val referring Susan to another brother to get wood or handling taking care of a favor another day.
There is an age gap between the pair with Susan being 63 and Val in her early 40s. Susan is a brilliant mathematician and coder who has sold her company and still consults. The pair quickly become friends on their way to possibly more. The easy friendship between the two worked well for me. There is no rush as these are mature women who can take their time getting to know each other. I also liked the reality of the challenges for small business during and recovering from a worldwide pandemic.
What didn’t work as well for me was I didn’t like any of the side characters. Her brothers are fine using Val and demanding extra because family comes first. Susan's only friend introduced in the story turns out unworthy of the friend moniker. And so much of the story takes place in the busy restaurant I was thrilled anytime they moved away from that location. The ending felt rushed and abrupt.
This is a very readable story of two mature women overcoming obstacles and finding each other. But I would have enjoyed a little more romance or a stolen kiss or two. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
There is an age gap between the pair with Susan being 63 and Val in her early 40s. Susan is a brilliant mathematician and coder who has sold her company and still consults. The pair quickly become friends on their way to possibly more. The easy friendship between the two worked well for me. There is no rush as these are mature women who can take their time getting to know each other. I also liked the reality of the challenges for small business during and recovering from a worldwide pandemic.
What didn’t work as well for me was I didn’t like any of the side characters. Her brothers are fine using Val and demanding extra because family comes first. Susan's only friend introduced in the story turns out unworthy of the friend moniker. And so much of the story takes place in the busy restaurant I was thrilled anytime they moved away from that location. The ending felt rushed and abrupt.
This is a very readable story of two mature women overcoming obstacles and finding each other. But I would have enjoyed a little more romance or a stolen kiss or two. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
January 26, 2025
worth the wait? debatable.
Review breakdown:
Writing: fine, but the book doesn't do anything until about the halfway point and I had to force myself not to dnf before then
Characters: ....... where to start? the characters *on the whole* are perhaps far too realistic, which may sound odd to say, but hear me out. all of the side characters are basically crappy people. family who thinks you owe them everything because they are family. and who don't think they need to treat you with any respect because they are family. friends who are...jealous? conniving? backstabby? I don't even know what to do with that one.
as for the two women we're supposed to be rooting for? val is tragic and her life is just too real. losing her partner due to covid, small business closing, car troubles - hardships of real people. it was such a downer for what I think is supposed to be a contemporary romance. other than that, val was ok.
the other one? she's a "perfectly normal, neurotypical" who just lacks social skills. Susan was a tough pill for me, and I'm a nerdy engineer who she is supposed to represent.
the friendship between them was fine, but I never really got romantic or sexy vibes. the sex scene? val was orgasming by the time I realized what was happening. and the end? shut the front door.
rooting for the older lesbians even if I didn't see it.
Plot: struggling woman meets grumpy woman who spoils her, but in a way some decent people in the world would spoil all of their friends if they had more money than they needed.
What would make this an extra star read for me: shrug. maybe some more good humans to balance out the other crap.
Vibes: meh
Review breakdown:
Writing: fine, but the book doesn't do anything until about the halfway point and I had to force myself not to dnf before then
Characters: ....... where to start? the characters *on the whole* are perhaps far too realistic, which may sound odd to say, but hear me out. all of the side characters are basically crappy people. family who thinks you owe them everything because they are family. and who don't think they need to treat you with any respect because they are family. friends who are...jealous? conniving? backstabby? I don't even know what to do with that one.
as for the two women we're supposed to be rooting for? val is tragic and her life is just too real. losing her partner due to covid, small business closing, car troubles - hardships of real people. it was such a downer for what I think is supposed to be a contemporary romance. other than that, val was ok.
the other one? she's a "perfectly normal, neurotypical" who just lacks social skills. Susan was a tough pill for me, and I'm a nerdy engineer who she is supposed to represent.
the friendship between them was fine, but I never really got romantic or sexy vibes. the sex scene? val was orgasming by the time I realized what was happening. and the end? shut the front door.
rooting for the older lesbians even if I didn't see it.
Plot: struggling woman meets grumpy woman who spoils her, but in a way some decent people in the world would spoil all of their friends if they had more money than they needed.
What would make this an extra star read for me: shrug. maybe some more good humans to balance out the other crap.
Vibes: meh
September 13, 2024
The pandemic robbed Val Nardi of her partner in both life and business. In the vacuum that followed, Val went to work for her brother at the family Italian restaurant, working to pay her bills and to keep the restaurant afloat.
Now, in these post-pandemic times, Val continues to work at the restaurant, taking on anything that her family needs.
While Val is mostly content, she has unknowingly become stuck in a rut, playing it safe where familiarity is a blanket of safety wrapped around her.
That's until she meets Dr. Susan Castle, who sees Val for who she really is and sneaks under the barriers Val has built, lighting a fire of lust and love as she does so.
Susan Castle is a neurodivergent 63-year-old computer geek who struggles to form close relationships. Yet, without knowing how, Val Nardi easily gets through Susan's defences.
Can Val and Susan accept finding happiness and make it as a couple through everything life has to throw at them?
Val and Susan are great characters, and I loved that Susan was older and more technically grounded, as well as there being an age gap between them. They both had issues to work through, confidence to find, and the need of the right support to open themselves up to love and life.
Please be aware that Val's family is largely filled with toxic gaslighters who do nothing but take advantage of her. This dominated such a huge part of the storyline that I not only hated some of them after a while, but I was emotionally fatigued and glad when I reached the end.
*I received an advance reader copy for free, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review*
Now, in these post-pandemic times, Val continues to work at the restaurant, taking on anything that her family needs.
While Val is mostly content, she has unknowingly become stuck in a rut, playing it safe where familiarity is a blanket of safety wrapped around her.
That's until she meets Dr. Susan Castle, who sees Val for who she really is and sneaks under the barriers Val has built, lighting a fire of lust and love as she does so.
Susan Castle is a neurodivergent 63-year-old computer geek who struggles to form close relationships. Yet, without knowing how, Val Nardi easily gets through Susan's defences.
Can Val and Susan accept finding happiness and make it as a couple through everything life has to throw at them?
Val and Susan are great characters, and I loved that Susan was older and more technically grounded, as well as there being an age gap between them. They both had issues to work through, confidence to find, and the need of the right support to open themselves up to love and life.
Please be aware that Val's family is largely filled with toxic gaslighters who do nothing but take advantage of her. This dominated such a huge part of the storyline that I not only hated some of them after a while, but I was emotionally fatigued and glad when I reached the end.
*I received an advance reader copy for free, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review*
August 2, 2024
A f/f romance like a smooth wine
This romance was as easy and enjoyable as a smooth good wine - where you find that the bottle suddenly is empty although you not really noticed that you consumed it.
I loved that Kenna White choose to focus on how small business owners suffered from the restrictions and lockdowns during the Covid pandemic. Some survived like the Italian restaurant of Val‘s brother, some went under like Val‘s cleaning service and the most unlucky ones lost a loved one. Val survived by working for her brother. I loved how warm and kindhearted she comes across. Enter the ice-queen, nerdy workaholic and techy Susan.
Despite the serious backstory this was a sweet read. The romance unfolds slowly and beautifully. Leisurely White explores the characters and as a bonus - they are mature women (44 and 63). With all the food and cooking it is a joy for all foodies and lovers of Italian food. I totally enjoyed this romance.
I received an ARC from Bella Books via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.
This romance was as easy and enjoyable as a smooth good wine - where you find that the bottle suddenly is empty although you not really noticed that you consumed it.
I loved that Kenna White choose to focus on how small business owners suffered from the restrictions and lockdowns during the Covid pandemic. Some survived like the Italian restaurant of Val‘s brother, some went under like Val‘s cleaning service and the most unlucky ones lost a loved one. Val survived by working for her brother. I loved how warm and kindhearted she comes across. Enter the ice-queen, nerdy workaholic and techy Susan.
Despite the serious backstory this was a sweet read. The romance unfolds slowly and beautifully. Leisurely White explores the characters and as a bonus - they are mature women (44 and 63). With all the food and cooking it is a joy for all foodies and lovers of Italian food. I totally enjoyed this romance.
I received an ARC from Bella Books via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.
November 18, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
this is a slow build up
the pandemic years as they will always be known hit people hard, val was one of them.... she worked hard at her brothers restaurant helping to keep it open but it became her life line.... all of her hopes and dreams had gone but she struggled on doing the best she could....
susan castle was a software engineer and very good at her job.... what she wasnt was tolerant of anyone who wasnt... so when she came into contact with one of vals nephews she wasnt impressed.... either with his demands to be paid and tipped for a wasted journey delivering the food that he thought she had ordered....
val had tried to smooth over the mistake between them.... and had given susan a voucher for some free food.... and as val and susan spent more time together they began to get on with each other and know each others quirks....
but susan was well aware of the age gap between them and always stopped anything romantic happening between them....
a gentle sunday morning read
this is a slow build up
the pandemic years as they will always be known hit people hard, val was one of them.... she worked hard at her brothers restaurant helping to keep it open but it became her life line.... all of her hopes and dreams had gone but she struggled on doing the best she could....
susan castle was a software engineer and very good at her job.... what she wasnt was tolerant of anyone who wasnt... so when she came into contact with one of vals nephews she wasnt impressed.... either with his demands to be paid and tipped for a wasted journey delivering the food that he thought she had ordered....
val had tried to smooth over the mistake between them.... and had given susan a voucher for some free food.... and as val and susan spent more time together they began to get on with each other and know each others quirks....
but susan was well aware of the age gap between them and always stopped anything romantic happening between them....
a gentle sunday morning read
September 29, 2024
Set in the times just after Covid, Val is working at her brother's pizza restaurant following the collapse of her cleaning business. I found her story interesting, especially how she manages the difficult customers, her family however are just awful and take advantage of her. One day Susan comes in to complain about Val's nephew and Val is intrigued by this quiet serious woman. They start a friendship that very slowly builds into a closer connection. Susan's life is calmer, she is very successful, financially stable and at 60, 19 years older, I enjoyed having an older main character. The story was engaging and kept me reading, the main characters are interesting in their own ways but phew the minor characters are truly awful, even poor Susan has a problematic friend. Overall a gentle, slow burn connection with mature main characters.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 23, 2025
3,5 ⭐️
I like the idea of this story but somehow I don’t think it grows from a caterpillar to a butterfly. The story is the too short to unfold into a loveable story. I get too little information about the mc’s to understand why they react like they do. Why do one of the mc’s suddenly retract from the tiny start of the relationship? And all of the sudden they are both hopelessly in love - I need a reliable story or background to fill in the many gaps in this story. I normally love the audiobooks from Kenna White but unfortunately this story isn’t one of them!
Abby Craden did the narration amazingly 5⭐️
I like the idea of this story but somehow I don’t think it grows from a caterpillar to a butterfly. The story is the too short to unfold into a loveable story. I get too little information about the mc’s to understand why they react like they do. Why do one of the mc’s suddenly retract from the tiny start of the relationship? And all of the sudden they are both hopelessly in love - I need a reliable story or background to fill in the many gaps in this story. I normally love the audiobooks from Kenna White but unfortunately this story isn’t one of them!
Abby Craden did the narration amazingly 5⭐️
December 12, 2025
Worth the Wait is a cozy, heartfelt read about family sacrifices, healing, and learning to open up. Val and Susan’s romance is a slow, glacial burn that fits the story perfectly. The vivid details and relatable dialogue make their relationship growth feel so natural. Abby Craden’s narration is fantastic, too; she pulls you into the story right away. If you’re looking for a comforting read with lovable main characters and minimal drama or angst, this one’s a great pick. Whether you read it or listen to it, you really can’t go wrong.
June 24, 2025
I enjoyed the two main characters and the later in life relationship between Val and Susan. Hence, worth the wait! However, I tremendously disliked Val's family who continuously took advantage of her. They appeared to have no redeeming qualities. However, since I listened to the wonderful narration by the outstanding Abby Craden, I think I was able to enjoy the story a little more. I do want to try another book by Kenna White to see what her other side characters are like!
May 11, 2025
I was waiting for more to happen in the book. There was a lot of family drama and the romance that brewed came together alright, but it still felt like not much really happened. That being said, this is a good palate cleanser if you need it, especially the audiobook. It’s very slice of life and not much more, and the writing is good. The romance is quite muted for the most part.
2.5 stars
2.5 stars
January 21, 2025
I love the characters and the slow-burn building attraction. Well-written story.
February 3, 2025
The book is charming. People who don’t match but have their own stories and their own charm - one obvious and one a little harder to grow on perhaps.
Enjoy!!!!
Enjoy!!!!
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