Worth the Wait

Eternity #6

by Jennifer J. Williams

They were each other’s first love, worst heartbreak, and greatest what if … until two orphaned children and one tiny heartbeat changed everything.

Leo

I came home from Afghanistan with a limp, a head full of ghosts, and no plan for what came next. Eternity Springs was the last place I wanted to return to. A different ghost haunts my hometown: the one of the woman who broke my heart before I deployed.

Ella Langley was meant to be my forever. My calm in every storm. Now she’s everywhere I turn: softer, sadder, but still the only one who claims my heart. She chose this town over me, and I swore I’d never give her the chance to hurt me again.

My heart may still recognize her as home, but I’m not the man she used to love.

Ella

Eight years have passed since I let the love of my life walk away because I was afraid to lose him to war. I convinced myself it was the right choice, the only choice.

Only my heart still calls me a liar.

I’m not the same girl I was when he left. Guardian for my orphaned niece and nephew, struggling with running my bookstore. I don’t need to see Leo Santo everywhere.

He’s quieter now. Harder. He wears scars I can’t see, but I feel them whenever he’s around. Once upon a time, he smiled at me like I hung the moon. Now he holds the world at arm’s length. Even me. I may be able to slip past most of the walls he’s built up, but does that mean we can find our way back to each other?

And when one night turns into a lifetime of consequences, will we be able to figure out our happily ever after, or will I lose everything all over again?

Genres: Second Chance, Romance

304 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 27, 2026

Reviews

[Gina Blades · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️ 2.5🌶️ ARC REVIEW: 📖 WORTH THE WAIT 📖 by Jennifer J. Williams ✨ This is book 6 in the Eternity Springs series but can be read as a standalone. Leo is the last Santo sibling to find love, or in his case, find love again. He never moved on from the love of his life, Ella, and both of them have trauma to work through. But in healing their past, they heal each other. This man was so patient, he’d wait forever for her. I’m so glad they found their way back to each other. When he tells Ella he’s grateful for the privilege of loving her? I can’t. 😭 We also are rewarded with sweatpants, a hand necklace, and a fun mirror🪞scene. 🤭🥵 Then there’s the epic sibling group chats. So unhinged and funny. 🤣 This big Italian family is EVERYTHING. Loud, loyal, supportive, fierce, strong, and meddlesome but so loving. 🫶🏻

This woman is engrained in my soul. She's tattooed on my heart. No one could ever take her place.

Leo Santo has loved Ella Langley since 8th grade. He hasn’t been with anyone for 8 years - since Ella, and neither has she. He isolates himself - he has demons, scars (physical & emotional), thinks nobody can fix him, and that he’s not lovable. He blames himself/feels guilty for half his squad getting killed in Afghanistan. He was medically discharged from the Army but only his parents and sister know the extent of his injuries. Ella has her own trauma because her sister, Ember, died in a car accident, and Ella now is a guardian to Ember’s kids, infant Violet and 4-yr old Oliver.

She wanted to stay in their hometown, so she broke up with him thinking he would move on and find someone to support his military life. But neither moved on - not a single date. One kiss and he knows he wants her back but Ella tells him it can’t happen again, so he vows to be patient. He courts her - brings her flowers, tells her she looks beautiful, stops by the bookstore every day. He doesn’t ask her out but he wears her down. 🫶🏻 He’s all in.

He’s romantic and thoughtful but I also loved his sarcasm. He’s in this for the long haul - however she will have him. The kids are adorable. Oliver is so freaking cute and when he says ‘My Leo’? Gah! 🥹 When Leo holds baby Violet to his chest when she’s sick? 🫠 I was a goner. He’s so good with the kids - Oliver loves him, and he’s like the baby whisperer with Violet. Leo wants it all - Ella and the kids.

❤️ Ella owns Purrfect Books - bookstore that showcases cats 🐈 for adoption
❤️ He calls her ‘ladybug’
❤️ He remembers her favorite coffee creamer
❤️ Takes care of kids when sick, and when Ella needs a nap.
❤️ She wears his old t-shirts she kept
❤️ Significant tattoos
❤️ He talks her through it 😮‍💨

Favorite quotes:
I’m not done with her. I'll never be done with Ella. She's always been the one, and she'll always be it for me.

"Agree to disagree.
"You think that should have happened?"
“Yeah. I'd like it to happen again. Often, actually. With less clothing. You can deny all you want, Ladybug. But this is happening, whether you want to admit it or not."

"I don't know how to un-break me. I don't know how to move on from you. And worst of all, I know I don't want to."

"Oh. Are we going to watch?"
"We are.”
“Put me inside you, Ella. God, baby. You were made for me.”

"I love you so much. No one will ever love you like I do."
"I know. You’re my home, Ladybug. I love you, too."

I don't know what I did to deserve this, but I'll never take it for granted. Everything up to this moment was worth it. They're all worth the wait.

Read this if you like:
*Second chance romance
*Small town romance
*Surprise pregnancy 🤰🏻
*Single guardian
*Bookstore owner FMC
*Injured former military MMC
*Caretaking
*Secret tattoos
*Trauma/healing
*Mental health/therapy rep

Content warning: military deployments, injuries from IED explosion, TBI, grief, death of a sibling, depression, suicidal thoughts, miscarriage (in flashback), therapy, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, death/parent with early-onset Alzheimer’s

Thank you to Jennifer J. Williams for letting me read and review. All opinions are my own.

I’m excited for the new Sterling Falls Ranch series to start where we meet Cole and Ally (Ella’s cousin).

[Elizabeth - the_passionista_book_doctor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth the Wait absolutely lives up to its title. The final book in the Eternity series by Jennifer J Williams is the perfect culmination of the Santos family. Longtime readers have been dying for Leo’s story since he was first introduced and it’s every bit as heartbreaking as feared. He and Ella are true loves, high school sweethearts, first everythings, and only ever yous. Their story with wrench your heart out and have you rooting for both of them to tear down their walls to let each other in. My heart ached for Ella’s circumstances and was torn open every time Leo’s past presented itself. The accuracy and detail of his PTSD was very well informed and incredibly honest. His major panic attack where his siblings become aware of all he is going through was one of the turning points of the whole book and while it ripped my heart out, it’s also one of my favorite scenes of the whole series. It’s definitely the best representation of a PTSD induced panic attack I have seen described in a novel. Kudos to Williams for the attention to detail and care that she took to represent many veteran’s truth. Leo and Ella have stolen my heart and the title of my favorite Santos couple. They are everything I hoped we would get for Leo and then some. Don’t wait on this book. Get it now and start reading, or start with Leo’s twin Gia’s story, Worth It All, if you are new to the Eternity series and get all the siblings’ stories before you wrap up with Leo and Ella. This book is one you don’t want to miss and is truly Worth the Wait!!

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love a small town, second chance romance this one is for you! The way they love each other is heart breaking. The longing and pining these two do is amazing! I love me some found family and unhinged group texts!!!

[Robyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ Romance Comfort-Read Alert ✨

This review comes from a reader who loves:
🛑 No cheating / no OW-OM drama
💞 Low angst (together > apart)
🚫💔 No third-act breakup — I’m tired, and I want them happy
👑 Strong FMC
💪 Take-charge MMC
🔥 Reformed playboy > current manwhore, but never manwhore is preferred
💬 Miscommunication allowed if resolved like adults
🏡 HEA ALWAYS
Basically, I’m a sucker for a safe, insta-love, non-manwhore, if he wanted to, he would, probably a little unhinged, take charge, alpha male. I like my FMCs to be strong, stand up for themselves, not be a pushover, but not annoyingly independent/rejecting of help. Nothing annoys me more than a FMC that inserts herself into something a literal “professional” does, thinking she can do better.

Leo and Ella grew up loving each other, dated for a very long time, and she broke his heart. Fast-forward a bunch of years, Leo is back in Eternity Springs and avoiding Ella as best he can. Ella, God bless her, is raising her niece and nephew as her sister has passed. Leo doesn't know they aren't Ella's kids and assumes she's moved on.

Leo is absolutely precious. A wounded veteran struggling with physical and mental health issues (check triggers). He is a shell of the man he once was. Struggling with survivor's guilt, past decisions, depression, and crippling lonliness, he just goes through life existing, but not thriving.

Ella has never moved on from Leo either. Neither of them have been with other people, and I loved that.

I freaking LOVED Leo. He was annoying at times, but his growth was so good. He opened himself up to therapy and the way it is done in the book is so good. Ella pissed me off. She literally has the man she has loved for over half of her life and he wants to help her and she keeps being an immature person about it. Granted, he has moments of immaturity too. I don't know, when authors write the FMC to consistently reject the MMC, who wants to be there for her/help her/support her emotionally-it really pisses me off. A human can only take so much rejection. In real life, I doubt anyone would take her shit. I did love her friend calling her on her crap by saying: Leo has put in the effort, but you have not. THANK YOU!

That said, I cried several times. Leo shows up so much for her and the kids. He is patient, takes action, tries to understand where she is coming from-he definitely is a hot head at some points.

This is a great read. you don't have to read the others, I haven't, but the siblings all make an appearance. The book before this one, about Bella and Seb was my favorite.

[Jennifer Y. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth the Wait, the 6th book in Jennifer J. Williams’ Eternity Series, is an emotional second-chance romance featuring two struggling individuals who find strength in their love for each other.

Years ago, Ella Langley broke up with her military boyfriend, Leo Santo, when his deployments became too much for her to emotionally and physically handle. Now, after being severely injured and medically discharged from the Army, Leo is back in town and in Ella’s new life.

Things have changed drastically for both Ella and Leo during their time apart. Ella is now the guardian to her late sister’s two young children, while Leo is still dealing with the effects of the event that caused his injuries and the deaths of some of his fellow soldiers. Both are struggling in their own ways, Ella with trying to take care of and support her niece and nephew and Leo with life after the military and with his mental health. Life didn’t exactly turn out how either of them expected.

Leo has done his best to avoid Ella in the years since their breakup, but thanks to some meddling from Leo’s family, they reconnect and it’s obvious these two childhood sweethearts still love each other deeply. With Leo and Ella, the author has created two headstrong, determined individuals who together make a strong couple. Both are a little broken in different ways, but they also help each other heal in different ways. Their connection is apparent from the start and it’s obvious they never stopped loving each other.

The author also created a colorful cast of secondary characters in Leo and Ella’s friends and family, many of whom have their own books in this series. Don’t worry if you haven’t read them yet, however. I have yet to read them and felt this book stood on its own quite well, but I will definitely be checking them out because seem like such a fun family.

Another thing that I liked about this book is that the author didn’t shy away from addressing some heavy topics such as mental health struggles, death, and miscarriage. But I know it can be difficult for some to read about these things in what outwardly appears to be a light, contemporary romance.

Overall, I really enjoyed Ella and Leo’s story and now look forward to going back to read the other Santo family members’ books.

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are 100% my own.

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth the Wait has cosy, small-town, second-chance romance vibes, with a touch of spice woven through themes of grief, loss, and trauma.

Ella and Leo were high school sweethearts who were pulled apart by life circumstances and uncertainty. Years later, Leo returns to their hometown after being discharged from the military, carrying survivor’s guilt and PTSD. Ella, now raising her niece and nephew after the loss of her sister, has built a life that looks very different from what she once imagined.

Now back in the same town, they begin to reconnect and get to know each other again.

This really is a sweet story of second chances. Both Ella and Leo had to grow up faster than expected, and it feels like parts of them remained tied to each other because of that. Watching their spark and tension unfold on the page genuinely made me smile.

Leo knows there are unresolved parts of their past, but he shows up with a willingness to rebuild trust day by day. Those moments felt soft, intentional, and swoon-worthy. Although sometimes Leo can jump to conclusions, he's willing to understand Ella. I loved the way he was able to show up for her and the way he embraces the children felt really heartwarming.

Ella’s connection to Leo is just as strong. Even with her hesitations, there’s a pull between them that she can’t ignore, and that emotional depth makes their intimate moments feel more meaningful. I could really feel the love that exists between them.

There are moments where both characters are navigating trauma, loss, and grief in different ways. When those experiences collide, there are misunderstandings and moments of holding back, which felt very human and grounded in genuine emotion. I really appreciated how these parts of the story were handled.

I also loved the support around them. Leo’s family, especially his twin sister Gianna, and Ella’s best friend Whitley, alongside the wider cast, bring a strong sense of community that adds to the cosy feel of the story.

I really enjoyed my time with this book. This is my first from the series, and I’ll definitely be adding the others to my TBR.

I received this book as an ARC, however this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings shared voluntarily.

[Julrenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jennifer’s latest addition to the Eternity series follows Leo Santo and Ella Langley, high school sweethearts whose on-again, off-again romance finally ended when Ella broke things off eight years ago.

Leo joined the army after high school and was frequently deployed. During this time, Ella suffered from anxiety, afraid that he would not return home. She kept this from him until it was too late for him to stop her from breaking up with him.

Eight years later, he has come home a physically and mentally injured man, struggling to acclimatise to everyday life. He works as a maintenance man and with general duties at his family’s hotel. His handy skills lead him back to Ella.

Lately, Ella's life has been turned upside down after the tragic loss of her sister, who left behind a four-year-old son, Oliver and a six-month-old daughter, Violet, who are now being cared for by Ella. She is trying to make it all work, but the funds aren’t there to repair the apartment she took over from her sister. This is when Arianna, Leo’s twin sister, steps in to offer help, and this is when Leo comes back into Ella’s life.

There’s so much angst between these two. Leo wants nothing to do with her, believing she’s moved on and started a family with someone else, while Ella is determined to keep him at arm’s length.
For them to become a couple again, Leo has to work on himself first. He is not dealing with the aftermath of the IED that took out half his team during military action, and he makes a brave step seeking therapy.

During this time, Ella and Leo become friends before venturing into something more. When an unexpected development arises, it threatens their outcome.

I stepped into this series near the end, yet I still found it easy to enjoy the growth of the Santos family. Nothing is more important than the love and support of family, and the Santos family is truly there for each other. It’s wonderful to read a book that highlights family values—something I’ve missed in other contemporary romance books recently.

Leo and Ella’s story is well worth reading, so don’t wait to fall in love with them.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth the Wait by Jennifer J. Williams
Eternity Series #6

~ Small town romance sees soul mates get a second chance ~

What I liked:
* Leo Santo: ex-military medically discharged due to IED injuries, survivor’s guilt, image issues, stoic, suppresses emotions, from a big family, baby whisperer, knew Ella was his one and done when he was in 8th grade
* Ella Langley: bookstore owner, raising her sister’s son and daughter, exhausted, makes decisions based on assumptions that may not be true, knew that Leo was her one and only in high school, had a rough time after breaking up with Leo
* Whitley: Ella’s best friend, runs coffee and sandwich shop that connects to Ella’s bookstore, gives good advice, would like to see whether or not she finds her HEA or not
* The Santo family support network, the love they have for one another, and getting to see some of the characters from previous books in the series
* Josh Mckinnon: Master’s degree in counselling, ex-military, meets Leo at a Rocky Mountain Range Riders MC meeting, becomes therapist for Leo
* The unflinching look at several issues both main characters were dealing with that included suicidal thoughts, guilt, feelings of inadequacy, spiraling, pain, anxiety, depression, others
* The group chats – a few had me chuckling as I read
* The arrival of cousin Ally who is probably going to star in the next book with someone named Cole Cunningham
* The epilogue that showed how Leo and Ella were doing a few years in the future and that they were definitely better together than apart

What I didn’t like:
* The times Ella and Leo made decisions that I knew they would regret and the resulting pain and times apart they endured afterward
* That Leo and Ella had so much trouble communicating – both expressing what they felt and were thinking and hearing what was being said
* Assumptions made that were incorrect that also led to more time apart and pain for both main characters

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucky I round up, because this was 3.5 stars...

I was uncertain on my review, becuase the overall story was good, and the premise was fantastic, but I felt that the execution was off.
Leo's grief, trauma and challenges with PTSD and guilt were well documented, plus he had an amazing support system when he let them in.
However, Ella felt less developed, and it seems that she was the punching bag in this story....

A second chance.
A lasting love.
First, last, and only.

When I wasn’t raging at certain aspects, I adored their story. However, the repetitive miscommunication became a drag.

They’re both to blame for their separation, but this story made me genuinely dislike some of the characters that I actually liked in earlier books.
The way she was treated when he lied to her, then cut her off. A classic case of a best friend is not a best friend.
And their level of interference during something that was clearly none of their business made me have to pause and take a breath before continuing. I would have thrown my Kindle.

Poor Ella, heavy stress, traumatised, family drama, and she was expected to drop everything for him. And when she didn’t, and finally put herself first - she was told she was dead to them….
Don’t get me wrong, Leo had his moments where he was a gorgeous book boyfriend, but I actually found his character to be a bit selfish - see breakup reasons, and the constant ghosting….

When the romance was on, I loved the book, but there were those pivotal moments where I found myself questioning the author’s thought process.

The issues with Leo and his military career were glossed over. She told Gianna. Gianna seemed pissed. Leo gave some kind of excuse, and all was forgiven on by Gianna. Then, when Ari got involved… He spiralled, and it was all Ella’s fault, but never mind that she was dealing with her trauma. It was all about Leo’s comfort.

I loved the story, but those few things really disappointed me and changed my entire view of the characters.

[rosesreadsromance · Rating 5 out of 5]

🐞 I knew that, if I had you as my partner, I could achieve anything, and be happier than I could be with anyone else. I knew you'd push me to try my best, but love me through my worst, because that's the kind of woman you are. 🐞

First love can be the one true, forever kind of love and this book really shows that 💕
Ella and Leo have known each other for years and were together for a long time, but life pulled them in different directions. His military service 🪖 and her responsibility to care for her sick mother 🤍 made it impossible for them to stay together 💔
Years later, they meet again..… both changed, both carrying their own complicated stories and pain 🥺
Ella is such a strong and brave woman 😍 She’s caring, independent, and deeply devoted to the people who matter to her 💚 She runs her own business 📚 and takes care of her sister’s children, always putting others first, even when life doesn’t make it easy 🫶🏻
Leo is dealing with the trauma of his military service (PTSD), trying to find his place again 🖤
I really loved how devoted he is to his family, especially his twin sister and how he isn’t afraid to accept help when he needs it. And the way he is with children — so gentle, patient, and naturally loved 🥹
He doesn’t give up, keeps fighting for what matters most to him, to his family.. and to her.
This is a story about second chances, about love that never really disappears, and about believing that even if things feel hopeless now, they can still get better someday ✨
It’s emotional and touches on difficult topics, but it also has lighter moments: funny, warm, sexy and yes... a bit spicy 🥹😆☀️🔥
I really enjoyed this book. And after learning Leo & Ella’s story, I definitely want to go back and read the previous books in the series. And I’m already looking forward to the next one 🧐
That little introduction to the new series in the epilogue? It only made me want more 🤩

📖 Worth the Wait by Jennifer J. Williams (ARC) 💚

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A highly emotional second chance romance
This book has a lot of emotion, and a frustrating lack of communication between characters. There are many heavy topics to read the author content warnings before diving in. These two have been together since middle school, and while they love each other above and beyond - they did not do a good job of communicating (including listening). As a result, Ella decides she has to break it off - Leo re-enlisted without consulting her and she just can't handle it anymore. He had no idea the turmoil she went through worrying about him. She breaks it off for good, and he says there won't be another chance. She tells him she knows, and that she hopes he finds someone that can love him like he needs. In my opinion, Ella showed a lot of maturity recognizing the issues, but she did a poor job communicating her own needs. She's a bit of a martyr and Leo doesn't recognize that in her. He's a bit blind to her struggles and needs. Ten years pass before they see each other again. Leo is back after surviving overseas, but almost losing his life, and has all the veteran struggles returning home after such trauma. He makes a lot of assumptions and his stubbornness means another couple of years pass before he actually learns Ella is still single, and instead is a guardian to her sister's kids. Even now, Ella struggles to take help, communicate needs, and be the one to reach out for support. It's still a rough go of it, and after both of their traumas cause another 3rd act incident, they finally are able to communicate and have their HEA. It was a great story, and I don't mind a miscommunication trope- this one was frustrating for me for sure. A great showing of how it can be the right people, wrong time.

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ 6/5
🔥 6/5
🌶️ 4/5
💧 6/5

Worth the Wait is an emotional and deeply impactful second chance romance that explores grief, trauma, and the meaning of family.

Ella is raising her late sister’s children, carrying both the weight of loss and the responsibility of becoming their stability. Leo, a veteran, is dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of war, including the loss of his team and lasting effects on his health.

Their relationship is shaped by past decisions and misunderstandings. After choosing another tour over staying with her, Leo and Ella are separated for seven years, both believing the other has moved on.

One of the most powerful aspects of the story is the found family dynamic. Leo’s role as “Uncle Leo” to the children adds emotional depth, especially in his bond with Violet, who sees him as the only father figure in her life.

Oliver’s perspective adds another layer, particularly in moments where his fear of losing Leo mirrors the loss he has already experienced. His conversation with Ella about that fear is especially moving.

The story balances emotional depth with lighter moments, such as Oliver interrupting a romantic moment between Ella and Leo, adding a touch of humor to an otherwise heavy narrative.

The pregnancy storyline introduces another layer of emotional tension, particularly as past trauma and miscommunication come into play. The sequence of events surrounding the reveal, Leo’s reaction, and the confrontation between them is emotionally intense and deeply affecting.

Overall, Worth the Wait is a powerful and emotional read that delivers strong character development, meaningful relationships, and a story that stays with you long after finishing.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

The enigmatic Santo sibling, Leo has been in the background of the Eternity Springs series. This is his story and quite simply, is so complex it makes sense why we had to wait.

Leo embodies the struggles of injured soldiers and how difficult their recovery and return to home can be. Ms. Williams conveyed the depth of those struggles in a way that the reader empathizes with him.

Ella is also someone who embodies the selflessness of true love. The burdens she has carried from caring for her mother to the losses she has experienced, have strengthened her resolve but dampened her spirit.

This book brings out such a range of emotions for the reader, I found myself reading with tears streaming down my face at multiple points in the story. Once you have read it you will understand as there are events I cannot share without spoiling the impact.

As this seems to be the final Eternity Springs story with the last Santo sibling crossing the threshold, I will miss this family. Each book in this series also showcases the siblings and their powerful bonds. The group text chats are the best.

Ms. Williams has tackled some difficult topics in an empathetic and caring manner that I found healing for me, but do check the trigger warnings if your personal experiences might make this a difficult read.

This was by far the most impactful book in the series for me. True love often has obstacles to overcome, but for Leo and Ella it climbed mountains. I would give this 10 stars if I could - it was Worth the Wait.

[The Good Girl Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨

Thank you Jennifer J. Williams for the Worth The Wait ARC! We don’t know what she puts in these books but we gobble them every time! They are the definition of staying up way too late to read just one more chapter. We were so excited to get to go back to Eternity Springs with the Santo family and read Leo’s story. Although we usually struggle with a second chance this one was so well done, we weren’t even mad about it. Leo and Ella were such amazing characters but we will say we are most protective of Ella. She is one of those characters you want to protect at all costs. That being said we would have liked to see a little more groveling because we just love her so much and she can do no wrong. But the way this man was so patient but especially how he immediately was all in with the children. And Oliver and Violet were so adorable! Oliver calling him My Leo and Violet becoming Leo’s dad’s favorite grandchild?! Stop it was just too precious. Plus seeing the rest of the family and the group chat shenanigans was the best. The problem with Jen’s books is we have a growing TBR but every time we read one of hers we immediately want to go back and reread all of them. This one is definitely worth adding to your TBR and if you haven’t read the rest of the Eternity Series (or any of her others) you need to.

We would also like to note that you should read the trigger warnings. There are difficult topics in this book that although are handled very well in our opinion, could still be triggering for some.

[Kari Tidwell (karisbookstodevour) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A small town second chance read all about first love that was always meant to be your only love, high in angst with fantastic chemistry and heaps of hope and heartbreak! Leo and Ella are great characters that never lacked the want but struggled with the execution in a romance that highlights both the growth of the characters and their relationship as well as the flaws and mistakes that young and in love can sometimes bring. It’s being young and thinking they’ll come around, that lack of communication that happens when you think you’re protecting someone and that time will always be on your side, and choosing yourself, then choosing honesty and it’s really fantastic. Jennifer J. Williams has just done an excellent job of showing how easy it is to jump without digging deep and putting all your cards on the table, what happens when you let the hurt and the anger go and really listen, and the way that, as always, time, circumstances, and personal growth give you that minute to see that what you thought was perfect wasn’t and what you thought was right was a one sided decision made on assumption. I love that they both knew there wouldn’t be anyone else, it was never about how much they loved each other, but that Ella understood herself enough to know she couldn’t keep going the way they were and that though late to the party Leo listened and actually heard what she had meant all those years ago. It’s just a great read that’s not really about who was right or wrong but about how staying together means more than just loving someone and I absolutely adore it.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌶️2

Yet again Jennifer has given us a book that deals with tough real life situations and approaches them with such detail and respect.

Leo's trauma and his PTSD was really difficult to read but in a good way. Him lashing out, not wanting to talk about it, undermining his trauma and experience, it's the harsh reality of veterans. I do wish we saw a bit more of Ella's grief journey as it was touched on how she was physically and mentally struggling but we didn't get as much depth to her side as we did Leo.

Finally a nickname that is unique but not cringe 'Ladybug' had my heart melting.

I am a sucker for texts in a book, it's always a good book when there's texts especially between family/found family.

I enjoyed the lightheartedness that interactions with Leo's family brought, it was a good balance for the dark, heavier content.

I would have given 5 stars but once I finished the book I was left with a feeling of wanting a bit more. The last third of the book felt more rushed, where I would have loved to see more development from the relationship and then working through things.

But it was still a very good read and I recommend.

Quotes
Not living, not dying. Just here.
I'm supposed to be the strong one.
Kept it in case you ever tried to reach me
I'm not done with you yet
I thought maybe you could be my Daddy
You enjoy when you're in control, but I've got my hand around your neck?

[Gabby Schneider · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth the Wait by Jennifer J Williams is book six of her Eternity series. I'm so sad our time with the Santo family has come to an end. These men, women, and this town are amazing.

Worth the Wait centers around Leo and Ella. It's been years since they last saw each other, and much to Ella's dislike Leo still makes her heart skip a beat. The yearning, and angst these two have for one another is unlike anything I have ever read. Don't ever get me started on the tension between them.

I related to both characters in so many ways, but the biggest way I related to them was how stubborn they were when they needed help. Especially Ella. She was thrown into motherhood, and she feels like she's drowning, barely keeping her head above the water. I love being able to relate to the characters. It makes the story that much more impactful. The topics throughout Ella and Leo's story might be heavy, but their are lighthearted moments, and plenty of spice.

Overall, this book and series in general was special to me. I related to so many characters in this series, and they felt real. Their struggles felt real. Sometimes you just want to read a book where someone has those same struggles so you don't feel alone.

Add Worth the Wait and the other books in the Eternity series to your TBR now! As always, check for trigger warnings before reading.

Thank you Jennifer and Luna Literary for this ARC!

[Deanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I may or may not have dropped everything when this book landed in my inbox! Jennifer J Williams has the ability to pull me straight into whatever story I’m reading. The characters and the small town worlds she builds are the perfect escape and never fail to bring me joy.

Leo and Ella were clearly meant to be. I’ve been so curious about Leo throughout this series and knew his story would be rough but the way he was with Ella showed how much of a giant softie he was.

Their individual trauma was heartbreaking to read, but I loved that they’d both were made use of some form of counselling/therapy. I am constantly yelling at book characters to “JUST GO TO THERAPY” so characters actually doing that makes me so happy hahaha.

I loved that we finally found out who was behind The Eagle Has Landed! It was not quite what I was expecting but amusing all the same. The way Hen wrapped up Mason the Marmot’s storyline had me cackling as well!

It’s bittersweet to say goodbye to the Santo Family and all their crazy shenanigans. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed our time in Eternity Springs and I hope we maybe see ourselves back there at some point but I’m excited for the new series! The teasers we got about tge MCs have me chomping at the bit.

[SherrecePQ Tanner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is full of heartache and all the emotions I absolutely love. But, protect your heart and mind, and ensure you are aware of the triggers with this one. Leo and Ella are each other's firsts, and despite everything, they never forgot, despite what, Ella, thought was best.

But, Afghanistan changed Leo, physically, mentally and emotionally, however when his twin Gianna reached out urging him to come home once he was medically discharged , could he go back to the place he felt the worst heartbreak? Ella's life had changed too, she was now the soul custodian to her sister's two children, as well as running her business. There is no family, besides Whitley, her best friend and work colleague.

When Ella reaches her breaking point, a phone call to Gianna changes everything, but there is alot of hurt, mistrust and not feeling worthy, to deal with. However those feelings that were there, had never died, so we see these two navigate the 'lay of the land' so to speak, finally open up to each other, and deal with the trauma, and shared hurt, from time gone by. Leo is far from broken, and how he steps up for Ella and gives her the time, aided by a text chat from his family, to find their way back to each other, this has to be my favourite of the series. Loved this.

[RomanceLand65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh man the best for last. leo the wounded vet and Ella the girl with so much baggage the plane can't fit it all. they were high school sweat hearts. they have a tragic past. she did him what she thought was a favor and let him go. he never stopped loving her and she never stopped loving him. they never realized they were waiting for one another. destiny stepped in and they finally were on the same page.

this story is about a love that never died even when life made you feel like you would be better off dead. but destiny knew that you both were worth the wait.

this book is filled with struggles you can't describe but in your heart you understand. at times you want to say wake up! it's in front of you.

both characters are strong. strong enough to raise your deceased sisters heartbroken kid after the tragic loss of their mom and he's man enough to step in help her raise these adorable kids and accept them as his own. that's a real man.

I loved that this was filled with hope for two lost souls to finally have their hea. there almost a third act dreaded break up but thankfully it crisis averted.

if you love hurt comfort , small town a fantastic hea this is your book.

[Julie Booklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

As we wrap up the Eternity series from Jennifer J William, the title is so fitting. Worth the Wait, was just that, we have been waiting on Leo’s story. I was not disappointed.

An emotional roller coaster of feelings from heartbreak to the hilarity of the family group texts. Leo and Ella were each other’s everything in high school.

Fast forward eight years – Leo has returned home, not exactly the same, PTSD will do that to the best of people. My heart ached for these two, and I so wanted them to let down their heavily guarded walls around their hearts. The pining and love that never left either one, has me rooting for them.

I want to give credit to the Author for the best representation of PTSD I have seen. While each person has a different reaction, it is well written and you feel emotion and panic. The attention to detail and description is handled with grace.

I have loved every book in this series; the Santos Family has left a mark and will be a favorite series to re-read.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[Jennifer So · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew I was in for a heartbreaking ride from the first chapter...

Where do I even begin? This was my first book from Jennifer J. Williams but boy does she know how to get you in the feels. From life hurtling curveballs at Ella leading her to become an unexpected guardian of 2 to Leo's traumatic experiences during his service giving him lifelong chronic pain and PTSD, I could not stop reading until our MCs got their HEA. Surprisingly there was a lot of communication after they reunite, but equal amounts of overthinking which led to other issues in their rekindling relationship. Despite the difficulties getting there, this was truly a story of second chance soulmates.❤️

I wish I read the other books in the series before the last Santo sibling because it took away the mystery of speculating who the writer/contributor of The Eagle has Landed is. I loved the little articles sprinkled in reminding of the Bridgerton series and Lady Whistledown's narration. And I especially loved the last text message chain with all the siblings and spouses. They're hilarious!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This books has some triggers, so you have PTSD, miscarriage, or suicide. Be warned.

This book was good. It got my attention right away. I loved how Leo and Ella got their story. They had a lot of ups and downs. Leo is love with Ella and he is in the Army. So when he decides to take it to the next level and wants her to move with him to another state. She tells him no she doesn’t want to move and breaks up with him. He is heartbroken.

Years pass and he comes back injured and very broken. Ella’s sister died and she now is taking care of her two kids. She is having a rough time. She is still in love with Leo as he is with her.

They start to talk and get to know each other again. Then she finds out something and he breaks again. He has so much PTSD and anger. He gets the help he needs to get better. With his family and therapist.

They still deal with the marmot taking things and we find out more on that. They also find out who is the person involved with the newsletter.

This was a good book to end this series. I can’t wait for the next series.

[Lou Li Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahh it’s time for the last of the Santos siblings to get their HEA! Leo Santos, ex military, has always been the quiet, rather grumpy sibling, twin to Gianna - loved that the series started off with one twin and concludes with the other at book 7. Leo and Ella’s story spans over a decade of feelings and let me tell you, it gets pretty emotional - sometimes love just isn’t enough and that was heartbreaking. Also the trauma they both suffered in their years apart - yup, I definitely cried. Life has been tough on them both and when Leo reconnects with Ella, Ella is already at breaking point and simply does not have the headspace to let Leo back in to her life.. but I was still rooting for them anyway (so we’re all the Santos siblings!). Full of sibling banter that has your shoulders shaking with laughter and some steamy scenes to get you hot under the collar, a perfect conclusion to an epic series in Eternity Springs.

I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Review
First off I would like to thank Luna & Jennifer for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Ella & Leo
OMG! Y'all this book was so worth The Wait! I'm obsessed. I giggled and I cried and I felt my soul shattering and slowly coming back together again. I absolutely these two and to watch them both struggle in different ways to life while still yearning and pining for each other was so emotionally beautiful. I loved how Ella stepped up for Oliver & Violet when it was hard and she didn't think so could do it. I love how Leo made it home and fought to become better then the shell he was & fought to be the man he knew he could be. I love how patient & constant Leo was with Ella, I loved how resilient & reliable Ella was for Oliver & Violet.

5/5 Recommend this book. Jennifer has this way to write emotional heartbreaking beautiful stories with happily ever after that make you feel it all while slowly healing you. This is definitely my favorite of the series. Sorry Sebastian & Isabella 🫣🫶🏼

[Extraspicybooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth The Wait by Jennifer J Williams
Eternity book 6

Worth The Wait is such a sweet small town vibes found family romance. The grief, ptsd, trauma and broken hearts were all written so well.
Leo and Ella high school sweet hearts. These 2 grow up together but circumstance of life tear them apart. Year later they are both back in the same town trying to navigate having to see each other.
Leo being discharged from the military and is dealing with the scars that come with that. Ella is raising her sister children and is in the trenches barely making it work. Circumstances as they are these 2 can’t seem to avoid each other no matter how hard they try. Those feelings between them never went away and they both have a lot of them to work through. They both make mistakes and with other family members involved it gets pretty messy but their love win out everything and Leo’s family redeems themselves.
This family is everything and the group texts are hilarious! I absolutely adore this happy ending 🥰

[Candace P. · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars

I wanted to like this book more than I did. The elements where all there for me to love the story, but for me there was too much of some things and not enough of others.

Leo storyline was done well, and I loved that he started working on himself during the story. There is a lot of healing that is needed after his experiences. While I loved the family support system in pervious books, in this one there were times it felt overwhelming and almost stifling.

Ella was more on the stubborn side of things and I didn't see a lot of character growth with her. I think there was a little too much of the same thoughts, especially when it came to if she could be with Leo or not. During the beginning of the story I can understand where Ella is coming from, but by the end and she was repeating the same ideas over and over.

Some of the highlights of the story for me where the group chats, which were hilarious, and finally having some resolution on the gossip site that we see throughout the series. I also loved seeing the couples from previous books living their happily ever after!

[☆Laura☆]

Ella cree que dejar al hombre que ama es la única forma de sobrevivir al miedo constante que le provoca su vida en el ejército. Leo siempre soñó con construir un futuro con ella, pero el servicio militar y la imposibilidad de dejar su hogar los llevan a separarse en un momento lleno de dolor. Ocho años después, el destino los vuelve a poner frente a frente en el mismo pueblo donde todo comenzó.

La vida de Ella ya no se parece en nada a lo que imaginó. Tras la muerte de su hermana, se hace cargo de sus dos sobrinos mientras intenta mantener a flote su pequeña librería y lidiar con las dificultades de una vida que no le da tregua. Leo también regresa marcado por la guerra con heridas físicas y emocionales que lo mantienen aislado de los demás.



______________


Todo iba bien hasta que llegue a la parte donde se habla de ejercito. León menciona como desde niño vio al ejercito estadounidense como almas bondadosas que salvaban el mundo, hasta que lo vivió en carne propia y se dio cuenta que los demás eran malos por la tanto eran sus enemigos.

[Trinity · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wow... (SPOILERS)

I really really wanted to like this book. I loved the way Leo's trauma and survivors guilt was dealt with and I love how much support he gets from those around him. But I despise Leo and his whole family... I understand that they want to be there and support Leo after the break up but literally NO ONE acknowledged what he was doing to Ella and how she felt! She had no one at all and he had a whole village of people and no matter what Ella did everyone hated on her for everything. She was trying to be emotionally mature and not hold Leo back from what he wanted to do and everyone treated her like a monster for it! Plus no one even talks about how much he lied and excluded her from the decision to reenlist... Then I lost all respect for Whitney and Gia for how they acted at the end, they were supposed to be her best friends! Ella needs to take the kids and run from that whole town because Leo didn't even APOLOGIZE to her!!!! No one did!!!

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not sure how I stumbled upon Jennifer J. Williams, most likely from a recommendation on Kindle Unlimited. But I'm so glad I did! Her eternity springs series has been so much fun to read that I'm sad to say goodbye to this family of crazy siblings!



Worth the Wait was indeed, worth the wait. Leo and Ella ripped my heart out and then slowly put it back together again. This is one of the most real, and raw romance, REAL life, real people, real feelings books I've ever read. Leo's struggles after the war, Ella's struggles with him before and after and the feelings she faced with that. Combine being the caretaker of her sisters two children. This book was life like. You really felt the characters emotions and pain, and of course, finally happily ever after happened for the last Santos Sibling.



I absolutely loved this book, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to read it for free in exchange for my always honest opinions!