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Priestly Family
Surrendering to You
His betrayal cost him the only woman he has ever loved. Now, he’s determined to win her back.
On the football field Tristan Whitmore might be an MVP, but after a recent career-ending injury, his world is flipped upside down. He takes little comfort in his many NFL achievements and a bank account bulging with more money than he could ever spend. His life feels like it’s over… until he reconnects with the one woman he’s never forgotten. Too bad she hates him.
Entertainment lawyer, Cree Priestly is not the forgiving type. Betray her once, and you’re dead to her. Which is why Tristan will never get a second chance with her. She lost too much the last time he charmed her into falling in love with him. Letting that happen again would make her a fool. But when he kisses her, all the buried memories of love, desire, and passionate nights come rushing back.
But can Cree afford to surrender her heart to Tristan again? Or are some betrayals impossible to move past?
*Books in this series can be read as standalones.
On the football field Tristan Whitmore might be an MVP, but after a recent career-ending injury, his world is flipped upside down. He takes little comfort in his many NFL achievements and a bank account bulging with more money than he could ever spend. His life feels like it’s over… until he reconnects with the one woman he’s never forgotten. Too bad she hates him.
Entertainment lawyer, Cree Priestly is not the forgiving type. Betray her once, and you’re dead to her. Which is why Tristan will never get a second chance with her. She lost too much the last time he charmed her into falling in love with him. Letting that happen again would make her a fool. But when he kisses her, all the buried memories of love, desire, and passionate nights come rushing back.
But can Cree afford to surrender her heart to Tristan again? Or are some betrayals impossible to move past?
*Books in this series can be read as standalones.
- GenresContemporary Romance
251 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2025
16 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Sharon C. Cooper
69 books939 followersUSA Today bestselling author Sharon C. Cooper loves anything involving romance with a happily-ever-after, whether in books, movies, or real life. She writes contemporary romance, romantic suspense, as well as romantic comedy. She enjoys rainy days, carpet picnics, and family game night. Her stories have won numerous awards, including The Rochelle Alers Best Series award for her Atlanta’s Finest Series (2022) and The Beverly Jenkins Author of the Year award (2021). When she isn’t writing, Sharon loves hanging out with her amazing husband, doing volunteer work, or reading a good book (a romance of course). To read more about Sharon and her novels, or to sign up to be notified of her latest releases, visit www.sharoncooper.net
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
December 28, 2025
OMG! This story was everything that I expected and more. It was laced with a small bit of drama, work place jealousy, anguish, hope, patience, and lots of love. Cree and Tristan’s chemistry was fire 🔥. A love that still held flames, that when doused with water, the fire department couldn't even get it under control.
Cree (niece) and Tristan are now my favorite couple in the family, so far. 🥰 She was a badass boss attorney, who held it together (at least on the inside), and didn't take s%$t from anyone, not even Tristan or her corporate partner, Warren.
Now, as far as Tristan,13 years later, she was definitely hot, bothered, and still in love with the man. She just needed to get her mind and heart in sync, so that she too could decide her next move. And man, did she give a surprise!
Now Tristan, he was smooth! Knew who and what he wanted. He slid in and put his #operationgetmywifeback plan into action. He fumbled once, but this second chance, he was gonna make it into the end zone. My man was observant and definitely patient!
It was a surprise to get a visit from one of "Atlanta's Finest" (Hamilton Crosby, his wife Dakota, and son Dom) 👀 from that series. Dominic is in college, rooming with Tray, Essence's son, and Cree's nephew. Loved this scene! ❤️
This book/story will not disappoint. A great second chance novel reading. You will want to read the series of the Priestly family. Can't wait until the next installment.
Cree (niece) and Tristan are now my favorite couple in the family, so far. 🥰 She was a badass boss attorney, who held it together (at least on the inside), and didn't take s%$t from anyone, not even Tristan or her corporate partner, Warren.
Now, as far as Tristan,13 years later, she was definitely hot, bothered, and still in love with the man. She just needed to get her mind and heart in sync, so that she too could decide her next move. And man, did she give a surprise!
Now Tristan, he was smooth! Knew who and what he wanted. He slid in and put his #operationgetmywifeback plan into action. He fumbled once, but this second chance, he was gonna make it into the end zone. My man was observant and definitely patient!
It was a surprise to get a visit from one of "Atlanta's Finest" (Hamilton Crosby, his wife Dakota, and son Dom) 👀 from that series. Dominic is in college, rooming with Tray, Essence's son, and Cree's nephew. Loved this scene! ❤️
This book/story will not disappoint. A great second chance novel reading. You will want to read the series of the Priestly family. Can't wait until the next installment.
December 27, 2025
Surrendering to Tristan, yes...
The idea that Tristan would fumble Cree and then expect to get her to come back to him was one thing, his execution would need to be flawless. Tristan chose to sign with another agent who wasn't his girl. I know, a dumb move right? Maybe not, if you look at the big picture. But Cree was not willing to stay with his ultimate disrespect. The story picks up years later and Tristan is no longer in the NFL, and he wants his girl back. The story is a second-chance romance with emotional moments and a healthy dosage of workplace drama and undercover shady acts. Cree and Tristan reconnecting was a smooth transition from enemy to lover. The cameo appearances by Dakota, Hamilton, Essence, and Dominic were really cool. I was happy with the flow, the pacing, and the storytelling. I highly recommend this story. Remember this is part of a series...
The idea that Tristan would fumble Cree and then expect to get her to come back to him was one thing, his execution would need to be flawless. Tristan chose to sign with another agent who wasn't his girl. I know, a dumb move right? Maybe not, if you look at the big picture. But Cree was not willing to stay with his ultimate disrespect. The story picks up years later and Tristan is no longer in the NFL, and he wants his girl back. The story is a second-chance romance with emotional moments and a healthy dosage of workplace drama and undercover shady acts. Cree and Tristan reconnecting was a smooth transition from enemy to lover. The cameo appearances by Dakota, Hamilton, Essence, and Dominic were really cool. I was happy with the flow, the pacing, and the storytelling. I highly recommend this story. Remember this is part of a series...
December 28, 2025
Cree and Tristan
Cree reminds me of myself lol, but I love the way Tristan didn't give up on her. Ms. Sharon did her thing again and I can't wait for who's text
Cree reminds me of myself lol, but I love the way Tristan didn't give up on her. Ms. Sharon did her thing again and I can't wait for who's text
January 1, 2026
Ms. Cooper really hit it out of the park with this one. I could not put the book down and read it in one day. Cree and Tristan’s ability to see the truth on each of their parts and the forgiveness given to each other and themselves, was so heartfelt. They are my favorite Priestly couple with Zion and Raven running a close second. Thank you for another great story. 🩷💙
January 3, 2026
Tristan and Cree!!
I love a good second chance book and Ms. Cooper did not disappoint with this one. Tristan and Cree were together when they were younger and just starting their careers when circumstances caused them to break up. Thirteen years later, Tristan is very intentional in his pursuit of Cree and very determined to win her back. I enjoyed their back and forth banter and the passion between them. The surprise twists from their past made me understand Cree more since she was coming from a place of hurt. I was glad to see characters from previous books. I can't wait for Essence's book, but I'm also hoping that Tristan's brother, Quincy, and Tristan's best friend, Jamal, will get their own books as well. Great book that I highly recommend!!
I love a good second chance book and Ms. Cooper did not disappoint with this one. Tristan and Cree were together when they were younger and just starting their careers when circumstances caused them to break up. Thirteen years later, Tristan is very intentional in his pursuit of Cree and very determined to win her back. I enjoyed their back and forth banter and the passion between them. The surprise twists from their past made me understand Cree more since she was coming from a place of hurt. I was glad to see characters from previous books. I can't wait for Essence's book, but I'm also hoping that Tristan's brother, Quincy, and Tristan's best friend, Jamal, will get their own books as well. Great book that I highly recommend!!
January 3, 2026
Yassssssss, Cree and Tristan!!!
I loved, loved, loved Cree and Tristan’s story! Cree was firecracker of a woman. She was also an attorney at a prestigious law firm. Tristan was a former NFL player. They had a history. Things didn’t work out well between them years ago. After Tristan’s injury in the NFL, he moved back to Chicago. He developed a plan to win Cree back. Cree wasn’t having it. Not until Tristan’s continued perseverance won her over, did she give them another shot. They never stopped loving each other. He knew Cree was a spitfire, but that was one of the things he loved about her. I really loved their journey. And maaaaan, the chemistry between the two of them was fire!! This book was definitely worth the wait. I also loved that Dakota and Hamilton made an appearance in the book, along with their son! Thank you Sharon, for this series!! I can hardly wait for Essence and Jackson’s story!! Until next time!! ❤️🔥
I loved, loved, loved Cree and Tristan’s story! Cree was firecracker of a woman. She was also an attorney at a prestigious law firm. Tristan was a former NFL player. They had a history. Things didn’t work out well between them years ago. After Tristan’s injury in the NFL, he moved back to Chicago. He developed a plan to win Cree back. Cree wasn’t having it. Not until Tristan’s continued perseverance won her over, did she give them another shot. They never stopped loving each other. He knew Cree was a spitfire, but that was one of the things he loved about her. I really loved their journey. And maaaaan, the chemistry between the two of them was fire!! This book was definitely worth the wait. I also loved that Dakota and Hamilton made an appearance in the book, along with their son! Thank you Sharon, for this series!! I can hardly wait for Essence and Jackson’s story!! Until next time!! ❤️🔥
December 27, 2025
Another great read
I enjoyed Créé and Tristen story so much. She didn't make it easy for him but he was not giving up. What was Warren's problem? It was good to see Dakota, Hamilton and Dominic. Can't believe he is in college.
I enjoyed Créé and Tristen story so much. She didn't make it easy for him but he was not giving up. What was Warren's problem? It was good to see Dakota, Hamilton and Dominic. Can't believe he is in college.
December 27, 2025
Another chance
I loved it! I was ready for Cree's story and it did not disappoint. I read it in one day.
I loved it! I was ready for Cree's story and it did not disappoint. I read it in one day.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So compelling, I could not put it down!
Let me start by thanking Sharon C Cooper for honoring me with an advanced copy of her soon to be released next Priestly Family novel. Now to the book. This beautifully woven story of two people fated to be together who loved, allowed circumstances, lack of communication, hurt and anger on Cree's part to keep them apart for a number of years found their way back to each other. Ironically, fate has a way of aligning what it began that was thwarted mid completion. Tristan and Cree never gave up on their love for each other and once they ironed out the hurt feelings, realized that they were each other's forever loves. Now anyone who knows Cree knows she did not give up her hurt feelings, and belief she was betrayed without her "fight first and ask questions later" personality. Tristan to his credit was determined not to lose Cree a second time. It was good to see a member from Atlanta's Finest, his famous wife and one of the children of that Atlanta's Finest's member interact with the hero and heroine of this loving story. Amazingly, that child is not only in college but sharing dorm space with Cree's beloved oldest nephew. Sharon, Mrs. Cooper, I would say you have a best seller in this soon to be released novel. You have all of the ingredients in this story for a real page turner that will be hard to put down. Thank you again for allowing me to be an advance reader of Surrendering to You, it is destined for every platform's Best Seller's list. Congratulations in advance and yes, go ahead and take that well deserved bow.
Let me start by thanking Sharon C Cooper for honoring me with an advanced copy of her soon to be released next Priestly Family novel. Now to the book. This beautifully woven story of two people fated to be together who loved, allowed circumstances, lack of communication, hurt and anger on Cree's part to keep them apart for a number of years found their way back to each other. Ironically, fate has a way of aligning what it began that was thwarted mid completion. Tristan and Cree never gave up on their love for each other and once they ironed out the hurt feelings, realized that they were each other's forever loves. Now anyone who knows Cree knows she did not give up her hurt feelings, and belief she was betrayed without her "fight first and ask questions later" personality. Tristan to his credit was determined not to lose Cree a second time. It was good to see a member from Atlanta's Finest, his famous wife and one of the children of that Atlanta's Finest's member interact with the hero and heroine of this loving story. Amazingly, that child is not only in college but sharing dorm space with Cree's beloved oldest nephew. Sharon, Mrs. Cooper, I would say you have a best seller in this soon to be released novel. You have all of the ingredients in this story for a real page turner that will be hard to put down. Thank you again for allowing me to be an advance reader of Surrendering to You, it is destined for every platform's Best Seller's list. Congratulations in advance and yes, go ahead and take that well deserved bow.
January 17, 2026
Tristan And Cree!!!
Surrendering to You is the love story of Tristan Whitmore and Cree Priestly. It is the best one in the Priestly Family series. They are both high profile, he's a former football players who's won all types of MVPs and other awards as a renowned running back. He retired due to a physical injury. Cree Priestly is an Entertainment Lawyer who is the highest billing partner in her office.
Their love story started thirteen years ago when they felt in love. They had secrets that ruined their lives then and seemingly Cree was still angry and held secrets when they met again. Their love story works this time around because they both surrender their past mistakes and secrets and forgive each other.
We again meet members of the Priestly family, and surprisingly run into Hamilton and Dakota and Dominic from Atlanta's Finest! Not only is this one of the best from the Priestly family series but also beats most of the Atlanta's Finest and other intertwined series with some of the same characters. I don't think Essence's and Jackson's love story will hold a candle to this one.
Surrendering to You is the love story of Tristan Whitmore and Cree Priestly. It is the best one in the Priestly Family series. They are both high profile, he's a former football players who's won all types of MVPs and other awards as a renowned running back. He retired due to a physical injury. Cree Priestly is an Entertainment Lawyer who is the highest billing partner in her office.
Their love story started thirteen years ago when they felt in love. They had secrets that ruined their lives then and seemingly Cree was still angry and held secrets when they met again. Their love story works this time around because they both surrender their past mistakes and secrets and forgive each other.
We again meet members of the Priestly family, and surprisingly run into Hamilton and Dakota and Dominic from Atlanta's Finest! Not only is this one of the best from the Priestly family series but also beats most of the Atlanta's Finest and other intertwined series with some of the same characters. I don't think Essence's and Jackson's love story will hold a candle to this one.
January 22, 2026
Cree is no joke. If you've read the other books in this series then you know she's straight from the hip, take no prisoners kind of woman. She's smart, outspoken, generous, sexy, loves her family fiercely (in Daring to Love she threatened Lynix when she caught him and her sister Dorian kissing), and one hell of a lawyer.
Tristan is Cree's kryptonite. The first time you see their interaction was in the previous novel and it was short and explosive. Once you find out why Cree is mad at Tristan and their history from 15 years before you begin to understand. Talk about history filled with betrayal, secret marriage and divorce, and a miscarriage but as you read the story, you realize how much deeply and fully these two people love each other. Their second chance at this love worked because of forgiveness, chemistry, communication, honesty, and time for both to be able to reflect.
In the end, Cree and Tristan got their dream lives filled with a forever home, new career paths, a baby and a beautiful HEA. I can't wait for Essence and Jackson.
PS! I love when characters cross over. In this one, Dominic (Hamilton and Dee's son from Atlanta's Finest, Book 1) is Tray, Cree's nephew college roommate at Clark Atlanta University.
Tristan is Cree's kryptonite. The first time you see their interaction was in the previous novel and it was short and explosive. Once you find out why Cree is mad at Tristan and their history from 15 years before you begin to understand. Talk about history filled with betrayal, secret marriage and divorce, and a miscarriage but as you read the story, you realize how much deeply and fully these two people love each other. Their second chance at this love worked because of forgiveness, chemistry, communication, honesty, and time for both to be able to reflect.
In the end, Cree and Tristan got their dream lives filled with a forever home, new career paths, a baby and a beautiful HEA. I can't wait for Essence and Jackson.
PS! I love when characters cross over. In this one, Dominic (Hamilton and Dee's son from Atlanta's Finest, Book 1) is Tray, Cree's nephew college roommate at Clark Atlanta University.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2026
This was a well written book but it was just okay to me. Tristan and Cree were married in their early twenties. He was trying to make it to the NFL and she had just started her business as sports agent with him as her main client. Tristan signs with a more experienced agent behind Cree’s back which causes her to ultimately shut down so she puts him out and divorces him. Thirteen years later and Tristan reappears back in Cree’s life to win his ex wife back. I can’t wait to read the next book to see what’s up with Essence and Jackson since she has him in the friend zone but he’s so much more especially with Dominic looking at him as a father figure.
December 30, 2025
Second Chance
I'll always appreciate a storyline set in my home town of Chicago; especially when done right.
We all know how decisions impact our entire lives especially when concerning others with failure to communicate properly.
Enjoy this story as a lesson of impulse control and the need to communicate effectively.
You'll appreciate the attentionality of the Win Cree Back and just trusting that no matter the time unwavering love never fails.
I'll always appreciate a storyline set in my home town of Chicago; especially when done right.
We all know how decisions impact our entire lives especially when concerning others with failure to communicate properly.
Enjoy this story as a lesson of impulse control and the need to communicate effectively.
You'll appreciate the attentionality of the Win Cree Back and just trusting that no matter the time unwavering love never fails.
January 8, 2026
A great second chance story. Tristan and Cree went their separate ways, but never stopped loving one another. Fate, as in most second chance stories, brought them back together. This is a well written story that makes you want to get to the ending to see what happens and then again, you don't want the story to end. Tristan was determined to get Cree back and she was determined to keep moving away from him. Ultimately, life intervened and these two were back together. I recommend reading the series in order to understand all of the characters and what they bring to the story. I can't wait to see what happens with Essence and Jackson. Great job, as usual, Ms. Cooper.
January 5, 2026
Fear VS Love
The met cute and the banter between Cree and Tristan, was as if I was in the room with them. The sibling relationships was so loving. Both sets of parents had me in stitches. Enjoyed the connection of the Atlanta's Finest in Atlanta and Chicago.
Looking forward to meeting Jackson and Essence accepting love.
The met cute and the banter between Cree and Tristan, was as if I was in the room with them. The sibling relationships was so loving. Both sets of parents had me in stitches. Enjoyed the connection of the Atlanta's Finest in Atlanta and Chicago.
Looking forward to meeting Jackson and Essence accepting love.
January 6, 2026
Surrendering to you
I enjoyed this second chance love story and I appreciated Tristan’s persistence in getting Cree back. I liked Cree and Tristan together and was happy they were able to rekindle and actually talk about what broke them apart before. Now I’m looking forward to getting a story on Essence and Jackson.
I enjoyed this second chance love story and I appreciated Tristan’s persistence in getting Cree back. I liked Cree and Tristan together and was happy they were able to rekindle and actually talk about what broke them apart before. Now I’m looking forward to getting a story on Essence and Jackson.
January 9, 2026
Second‑chance romance.
Enemies to lovers.
NFL football player.
Entertainment lawyer.
And Cree Priestly on 10!
Surrendering to You is that book. I am so here for it. I am talking all the feels.
Totally book‑hangover worthy!
Enemies to lovers.
NFL football player.
Entertainment lawyer.
And Cree Priestly on 10!
Surrendering to You is that book. I am so here for it. I am talking all the feels.
Totally book‑hangover worthy!
January 12, 2026
Excellent read
Excellent read, I loved the characters and storyline. Cree and Tristian are a great match. After thirteen years apart, Tristian was persistent in his pursuit of Cree. Their chemistry was undeniable and their love still strong. This is Tristian and Cree’s journey to forever love.
Excellent read, I loved the characters and storyline. Cree and Tristian are a great match. After thirteen years apart, Tristian was persistent in his pursuit of Cree. Their chemistry was undeniable and their love still strong. This is Tristian and Cree’s journey to forever love.
January 25, 2026
Less excitement as I expected
Very little angst. FMC was written tough in synopsis but folded pretty immediately after first couple interactions considering her dreams were put on hold due to MMC decisions. Pretty dull overall.
Very little angst. FMC was written tough in synopsis but folded pretty immediately after first couple interactions considering her dreams were put on hold due to MMC decisions. Pretty dull overall.
February 3, 2026
Surrendering to you
Mama Prestly missed another chance to have a bigger than life wedding as Cree and Tristan eloped. It was fun watching Tristan work double to win Crew's love again.
Mama Prestly missed another chance to have a bigger than life wedding as Cree and Tristan eloped. It was fun watching Tristan work double to win Crew's love again.
January 9, 2026
This is my first time reading a book by the author, and I must say, she is an excellent writer who develops characters who “jump” from the page.
Read more here: https://wp.me/p12iNR-eKc
Read more here: https://wp.me/p12iNR-eKc
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews