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Priestly Family
Waiting for You
They say friends make the best lovers...
After a bitter divorce, Jackson Norwood never thought he’d fall in love again. Especially not with his best friend, Essence Priestly. His attraction to her is the most powerful thing he's felt in a long time, and he doesn't just want her as a lover. He wants her to be his wife. Yet she’s determined to keep their relationship strictly platonic.
Jackson means everything to Essence and her son, and she’s torn between her love for him and the fear of ruining their years of friendship. But after an impulsive, passionate weekend together, she can’t deny their chemistry is off the charts. Jackson woke up the part of her she thought died years ago, and Essence is tempted to let him have what he wants—her.
But drama from his ex-wife is enough to challenge the strongest connection. Will Essence and Jackson’s reinvented relationship buckle under the pressure? Or will their bond grow stronger and lead them to their happily-ever-after?
After a bitter divorce, Jackson Norwood never thought he’d fall in love again. Especially not with his best friend, Essence Priestly. His attraction to her is the most powerful thing he's felt in a long time, and he doesn't just want her as a lover. He wants her to be his wife. Yet she’s determined to keep their relationship strictly platonic.
Jackson means everything to Essence and her son, and she’s torn between her love for him and the fear of ruining their years of friendship. But after an impulsive, passionate weekend together, she can’t deny their chemistry is off the charts. Jackson woke up the part of her she thought died years ago, and Essence is tempted to let him have what he wants—her.
But drama from his ex-wife is enough to challenge the strongest connection. Will Essence and Jackson’s reinvented relationship buckle under the pressure? Or will their bond grow stronger and lead them to their happily-ever-after?
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 11, 2026
About the author
Sharon C. Cooper
70 books953 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 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 5, 2026
3.75 rounding up to 4***
ARC Review **
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC. My opinions are my own so take them with a grain of salt. I did myself a disservice by introducing myself to the Priestly family so late into an established series. Not because I felt lost in Jackson and Essence’s love story, it was very easy to pick up and get pulled into the sisters and their family dynamic, along with other family members. It was more a deep sense of missing out on all the history this close, loving family went through in the first four books. And some past characters from other series make an appearance. I can tell author creates a very deep and personal bond to her characters. It shown through. Our couple get their HEA, some ex drama from both sides gets in the mix too stirring up the angst a tad. Overall it was a feel good love story I highly recommend. Just don’t make my mistake, start on book one so you get this fun family from day one.
Waiting for You is book five in the Priestly Family series.
ARC Review **
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC. My opinions are my own so take them with a grain of salt. I did myself a disservice by introducing myself to the Priestly family so late into an established series. Not because I felt lost in Jackson and Essence’s love story, it was very easy to pick up and get pulled into the sisters and their family dynamic, along with other family members. It was more a deep sense of missing out on all the history this close, loving family went through in the first four books. And some past characters from other series make an appearance. I can tell author creates a very deep and personal bond to her characters. It shown through. Our couple get their HEA, some ex drama from both sides gets in the mix too stirring up the angst a tad. Overall it was a feel good love story I highly recommend. Just don’t make my mistake, start on book one so you get this fun family from day one.
Waiting for You is book five in the Priestly Family series.
June 11, 2026
The Wait Was Wait-worthy
Yes, I said it. Jackson Norwood and Essence Priestly knew good and well that they were in love with one another. The excuse she always gave him was not to mess up the friendship. We all know that the lame answer is just an excuse for not dealing with the inevitable. Jackson was skidish after his divorce from his bougie princess wife, Savannah. Essence was reticent because her son's father left her hanging with a baby as a teen Mom. Now, the son was a college student and no longer needed him. So, I get their hesitation. Be for real. The pair had been in each other's lives for sixteen years. So when they had an adventure in Atlanta, I knew that trip would be a surprise, surprise. In the meantime, Savannah will try another conniving trick to get Jackson to take her back. And you can rest assured, Essence was not about to let her man get away. And the Priestly siblings, wives, and husbands were ready to take action on Essence and Jackson's behalf. Each Priestly story is an adventure for sure. Laz's appearance is always a treat. The story was recommended reading for sure. 5+ stars. It's an amazing story...
Yes, I said it. Jackson Norwood and Essence Priestly knew good and well that they were in love with one another. The excuse she always gave him was not to mess up the friendship. We all know that the lame answer is just an excuse for not dealing with the inevitable. Jackson was skidish after his divorce from his bougie princess wife, Savannah. Essence was reticent because her son's father left her hanging with a baby as a teen Mom. Now, the son was a college student and no longer needed him. So, I get their hesitation. Be for real. The pair had been in each other's lives for sixteen years. So when they had an adventure in Atlanta, I knew that trip would be a surprise, surprise. In the meantime, Savannah will try another conniving trick to get Jackson to take her back. And you can rest assured, Essence was not about to let her man get away. And the Priestly siblings, wives, and husbands were ready to take action on Essence and Jackson's behalf. Each Priestly story is an adventure for sure. Laz's appearance is always a treat. The story was recommended reading for sure. 5+ stars. It's an amazing story...
June 16, 2026
Waiting for you
This was a well written best friends to lovers romance. I have been anticipating Jackson and Essence taking things beyond friendship for a while and their story did not disappoint.
While Essence was initially scared about them introducing being lovers to their relationship, Jackson was certain enough things would work out and that they belonged together for the both of them. I was glad it didn’t take too long for Essence to come around and accept that them adding being lovers to their dynamic was literally the only change because they had been building their lives together and around each other for years.
The drama with Jackson’s ex wife was a lot, but I liked the way he handled the situation and her. He let her know at every turn that he wasn’t interested in ever rekindling things between them and that the only reason he even considered trying to be her friend was because Essence encouraged him to forgive her and try to be friends again because of how angry he still was with her so many years post divorce. The ex was delusional at best thinking all she had to do was apologize and all would be right between her and Jackson and they could get back together, but she learned nothing could be further from the truth.
I loved how devoted Jackson was to Essence and Tray. He loved them unconditionally and would do anything for them. I appreciated how even after Jackson let his feelings be known, he never pushed too hard or forced Essence to come around to his way of thinking and was patient with her while she came to realize that they belonged together and could still be best friends. I also loved that while he was waiting for Essence to come around, Jackson moved like they were already in a relationship and told anyone who asked about his relationship status, that he was in a relationship and taken.
I also liked that while this story was part of a series, that each book can truly be read alone without feeling like you missed something because the author also included background on each sibling and their spouse that can also help a reader decide to read the rest of the series if they hadn’t already.
This was a well written best friends to lovers romance. I have been anticipating Jackson and Essence taking things beyond friendship for a while and their story did not disappoint.
While Essence was initially scared about them introducing being lovers to their relationship, Jackson was certain enough things would work out and that they belonged together for the both of them. I was glad it didn’t take too long for Essence to come around and accept that them adding being lovers to their dynamic was literally the only change because they had been building their lives together and around each other for years.
The drama with Jackson’s ex wife was a lot, but I liked the way he handled the situation and her. He let her know at every turn that he wasn’t interested in ever rekindling things between them and that the only reason he even considered trying to be her friend was because Essence encouraged him to forgive her and try to be friends again because of how angry he still was with her so many years post divorce. The ex was delusional at best thinking all she had to do was apologize and all would be right between her and Jackson and they could get back together, but she learned nothing could be further from the truth.
I loved how devoted Jackson was to Essence and Tray. He loved them unconditionally and would do anything for them. I appreciated how even after Jackson let his feelings be known, he never pushed too hard or forced Essence to come around to his way of thinking and was patient with her while she came to realize that they belonged together and could still be best friends. I also loved that while he was waiting for Essence to come around, Jackson moved like they were already in a relationship and told anyone who asked about his relationship status, that he was in a relationship and taken.
I also liked that while this story was part of a series, that each book can truly be read alone without feeling like you missed something because the author also included background on each sibling and their spouse that can also help a reader decide to read the rest of the series if they hadn’t already.
June 14, 2026
Miss Sharon just keeps showing out with the Priestly family. Essence's story was my favorite of the siblings! Essence's story had more drama & negative outside interrupters vs her siblings, and I was there for all of it.
The ex's (Savannah & Kyle) of both, Romero really a non-factor and Essence herself. I swear between Savannah & Essence herself, I don't know which one gave me more of a headache. But Jackson was not having it and waited her out. As of a matter fact, Tray, her son and Aunt GiGi gave her a stern talking to about Jackson. She finally succumbed to her fear & caught up w/Jackson.
I'm so glad that Essence came to her senses. And Jackson, told her on New Year's Eve that they would be together for the new year. He definitely was intentional. He meant what he said and said what he meant. Jackson was a stand-up man (Intentional, loyal, respectful, honest, protective, and stood 10 toes down for Essence and Tray). Speaking of Tray, he and Jackson had the most beautiful dad & son relationship. Jackson stepped into the father role of Tray's even though he wasn't asked. He had the honor of being called dad by Tray because that was what Tray looked to him as. I ❤️❤️❤️
Essence and Jackson had a fury of surprises as they navigated this thing called love.
By the way:
1. I loved the brief appearance of Laz and Journey. He's still edgy & I love him and she still knows how to handle him.
2. Essence's sister Cree, is no joke! She was ready for the bum Kyle.
3. Seeing the Priestly siblings and parents stick together throughout challenges was awesome.
4. What's with Aunt GiGi and Jackson’s dad? And Clarissa and Jeffrey? (Jackson’s best friend)
I'm sad to see the ending of the siblings' stories.
The ex's (Savannah & Kyle) of both, Romero really a non-factor and Essence herself. I swear between Savannah & Essence herself, I don't know which one gave me more of a headache. But Jackson was not having it and waited her out. As of a matter fact, Tray, her son and Aunt GiGi gave her a stern talking to about Jackson. She finally succumbed to her fear & caught up w/Jackson.
I'm so glad that Essence came to her senses. And Jackson, told her on New Year's Eve that they would be together for the new year. He definitely was intentional. He meant what he said and said what he meant. Jackson was a stand-up man (Intentional, loyal, respectful, honest, protective, and stood 10 toes down for Essence and Tray). Speaking of Tray, he and Jackson had the most beautiful dad & son relationship. Jackson stepped into the father role of Tray's even though he wasn't asked. He had the honor of being called dad by Tray because that was what Tray looked to him as. I ❤️❤️❤️
Essence and Jackson had a fury of surprises as they navigated this thing called love.
By the way:
1. I loved the brief appearance of Laz and Journey. He's still edgy & I love him and she still knows how to handle him.
2. Essence's sister Cree, is no joke! She was ready for the bum Kyle.
3. Seeing the Priestly siblings and parents stick together throughout challenges was awesome.
4. What's with Aunt GiGi and Jackson’s dad? And Clarissa and Jeffrey? (Jackson’s best friend)
I'm sad to see the ending of the siblings' stories.
June 24, 2026
Jackson and Essence!!
I fell so in love with this book while I was reading it. It had me feeling sooo good the whole time. Essence and Jackson had been friends for over 16 years. Jackson started wanting more, but Essence was trying to avoid her feelings for Jackson by pushing him away. To her, these new feelings were scary, and she didn't want lose her friendship with Jackson. I was glad when Essence decided to give Jackson what he was asking for. Their connection could be felt all throughout the book. Their banter was heart-warming because it showed how comfortable they were with each other. The one character who got on my nerves was Jackson's ex-wife, Savannah. I knew that h%ssy was up to no good from the very beginning. She was definitely doing too much. I really enjoyed reading this beautifully written friends to lovers book because it's one of my favorite tropes. I'm glad that Essence got her HEA because she deserved to have love in her life and Jackson provided her with that. Now, we need some Priestly cousins so we won't have to give up this family. 😊
I fell so in love with this book while I was reading it. It had me feeling sooo good the whole time. Essence and Jackson had been friends for over 16 years. Jackson started wanting more, but Essence was trying to avoid her feelings for Jackson by pushing him away. To her, these new feelings were scary, and she didn't want lose her friendship with Jackson. I was glad when Essence decided to give Jackson what he was asking for. Their connection could be felt all throughout the book. Their banter was heart-warming because it showed how comfortable they were with each other. The one character who got on my nerves was Jackson's ex-wife, Savannah. I knew that h%ssy was up to no good from the very beginning. She was definitely doing too much. I really enjoyed reading this beautifully written friends to lovers book because it's one of my favorite tropes. I'm glad that Essence got her HEA because she deserved to have love in her life and Jackson provided her with that. Now, we need some Priestly cousins so we won't have to give up this family. 😊
June 14, 2026
Sharon C Cooper has done it again with Essence and Jackson. This is a get all in your feelings kinda story. Jackson and Essence have been best friends for years trying to ignore their love relationship for each other. But one weekend in Atlanta changes everything.
Jackson is ready to take the relationship to the next level but Essence is afraid of losing their friendship if they do. This is a true friends to lovers story with a lot of emotions going on. I love the Priestly family and their stories. I give this book 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jackson is ready to take the relationship to the next level but Essence is afraid of losing their friendship if they do. This is a true friends to lovers story with a lot of emotions going on. I love the Priestly family and their stories. I give this book 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 29, 2026
Oh My Gah!!
I loved this story! Jackson and Essence had been best friends for years! Her son Tray, even called him dad! Essence was so afraid to move forward with a relationship. She thought it would ruin their friendship. She was also afraid that Jackson would end up going back to his ex wife. Even though he didn’t want anything to do with Savannah. Savannah did all she could to come between them, but Jackson wasn’t having it. He had to get a restraining order to keep her away from them. When Essence’s Aunt Gigi had a conversation her about giving Jackson a chance, she finally realized that she wanted to move forward with him. They made each other so happy! Her son Tray was extremely happy! I’m so glad they ended up together! Their relationship was definitely worth the wait! Thank you Sharon C. Cooper! I absolutely love this series! I can’t wait for you to write Aunt Gigi and Jackson’s dad’s story! 🙌🏾❤️🔥
I loved this story! Jackson and Essence had been best friends for years! Her son Tray, even called him dad! Essence was so afraid to move forward with a relationship. She thought it would ruin their friendship. She was also afraid that Jackson would end up going back to his ex wife. Even though he didn’t want anything to do with Savannah. Savannah did all she could to come between them, but Jackson wasn’t having it. He had to get a restraining order to keep her away from them. When Essence’s Aunt Gigi had a conversation her about giving Jackson a chance, she finally realized that she wanted to move forward with him. They made each other so happy! Her son Tray was extremely happy! I’m so glad they ended up together! Their relationship was definitely worth the wait! Thank you Sharon C. Cooper! I absolutely love this series! I can’t wait for you to write Aunt Gigi and Jackson’s dad’s story! 🙌🏾❤️🔥
June 13, 2026
Waiting for you
Cooper has done it again, I think this the second of her books. They seem so real. Friends before marriage is the one thing all young people should consider before marriage. Secret that arrive after marriage can make or break a marriage. Friend first can alleviate problem if addressed early.
Cooper has done it again, I think this the second of her books. They seem so real. Friends before marriage is the one thing all young people should consider before marriage. Secret that arrive after marriage can make or break a marriage. Friend first can alleviate problem if addressed early.
June 14, 2026
Where can I find a Jackson
Ms. Sharon, this was worth the wait. Reminds me some good things are right in front of you, if you open your eyes and heart to see. Can't wait for your next installment.
Ms. Sharon, this was worth the wait. Reminds me some good things are right in front of you, if you open your eyes and heart to see. Can't wait for your next installment.
June 14, 2026
Loved it
Essence and Jackson finally get on the same page although it comes with some bumps in the road. I had a gamut of emotions while reading and I couldn't put the book down.
Essence and Jackson finally get on the same page although it comes with some bumps in the road. I had a gamut of emotions while reading and I couldn't put the book down.
June 20, 2026
This was a great friends to lovers story! I loved how Jackson knew what he wanted and went after it, all gas no breaks. The way Essence didn’t let anyone come in between her relationship with Jackson was so satisfying! Although there was some drama with people from the past, their story is a perfect example that healthy relationships do exist as long as you have trust and respect!
June 24, 2026
What an end to this series. First born Essence gets her happily ever after.
If you've read the Priestly Family series, you have gotten a glimpse of Essence and Jackson here and there and lots about Essence's backstory with having Tray in high school. This is long standing friendship that turned into a beautiful and sensual romance. Readers have to thank Essence's Aunt GiGi for giving her the advice she needed to take a chance with Jackson. I mean your son calls him Dad.
This wasn't an easy road for Essence and Jackson but that was because of outside factors-crazy ex-wife, Tray bio-dad-Kyle, and at some point Tray and Dominic in trouble. In the end, it all worked out. Babies (yes), engagement, and marriage.
Also as Atlanta's Finest fan, one of my favorite characters made a cameo. The author dropped an easter egg in Surrendering to You. I even reached out to her and she kept the cameo a secret.
Enjoy!!!!
If you've read the Priestly Family series, you have gotten a glimpse of Essence and Jackson here and there and lots about Essence's backstory with having Tray in high school. This is long standing friendship that turned into a beautiful and sensual romance. Readers have to thank Essence's Aunt GiGi for giving her the advice she needed to take a chance with Jackson. I mean your son calls him Dad.
This wasn't an easy road for Essence and Jackson but that was because of outside factors-crazy ex-wife, Tray bio-dad-Kyle, and at some point Tray and Dominic in trouble. In the end, it all worked out. Babies (yes), engagement, and marriage.
Also as Atlanta's Finest fan, one of my favorite characters made a cameo. The author dropped an easter egg in Surrendering to You. I even reached out to her and she kept the cameo a secret.
Enjoy!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2026
Friends Forever
This may be my favorite story! I loved how essence fought her feelings until she couldn’t wait any longer. I love the relationship between Tray and Jackson!! A perfect male role model in a perfect love story. Ms. Cooper you have done it again! I can’t wait for Gigi and for Clarissa to get their stories!!!!!
This may be my favorite story! I loved how essence fought her feelings until she couldn’t wait any longer. I love the relationship between Tray and Jackson!! A perfect male role model in a perfect love story. Ms. Cooper you have done it again! I can’t wait for Gigi and for Clarissa to get their stories!!!!!
June 26, 2026
I truly enjoyed this book.
It’s written from 3rd person POV, which is not my favorite but I still enjoyed the book.
This is a friends to lovers trope. It very much leans into that trope almost to the point of being predictable. I love the family dynamic and how it’s relatable to a degree with the main characters having everyday jobs and homes. It’s also a mature lovers story. They aren’t young folk. And I love it since I’m nearly the same age as them.
At first I was quite iffy about the FMC’s mom and sisters, they all seemed entirely too nosy. But it eventually worked out and the mom wasn’t so bad. This seems to be the last book in this series as all the other siblings are married already, based on the nuggets dropped I assume they had some crazy stories 🤣
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It’s written from 3rd person POV, which is not my favorite but I still enjoyed the book.
This is a friends to lovers trope. It very much leans into that trope almost to the point of being predictable. I love the family dynamic and how it’s relatable to a degree with the main characters having everyday jobs and homes. It’s also a mature lovers story. They aren’t young folk. And I love it since I’m nearly the same age as them.
At first I was quite iffy about the FMC’s mom and sisters, they all seemed entirely too nosy. But it eventually worked out and the mom wasn’t so bad. This seems to be the last book in this series as all the other siblings are married already, based on the nuggets dropped I assume they had some crazy stories 🤣
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 28, 2026
Waiting for You
Another heart warming story from Sharon C Cooper. This story shows you that you're never to old for love and a family.
Another heart warming story from Sharon C Cooper. This story shows you that you're never to old for love and a family.
June 29, 2026
Great story
Really enjoyed this book. , inspiring and entertaining Always enjoy Ms Cooper and will continue to follow her to read what’s next.
Really enjoyed this book. , inspiring and entertaining Always enjoy Ms Cooper and will continue to follow her to read what’s next.
July 8, 2026
Saved The Best For Last
OMG! The story of Jackson and Essence kept me on the edge of my seat. I was reading so quickly to find out what was going to happen next! The entire series was wonderful. Each book had steamy love scenes (tough for this single, unattached woman). The love Jackson had for Essence is unmatched. What an amazing story. Thanks Sharon Cooper. You did it again.
OMG! The story of Jackson and Essence kept me on the edge of my seat. I was reading so quickly to find out what was going to happen next! The entire series was wonderful. Each book had steamy love scenes (tough for this single, unattached woman). The love Jackson had for Essence is unmatched. What an amazing story. Thanks Sharon Cooper. You did it again.
July 9, 2026
Worth Waiting For
Ms. Cooper did not disappoint as usual. Loved the dynamics between Essence and Jackson. Nice for some characters from past books to appear. Can't wait for the next installment.
Ms. Cooper did not disappoint as usual. Loved the dynamics between Essence and Jackson. Nice for some characters from past books to appear. Can't wait for the next installment.
June 27, 2026
Firefighter hero.
Single mom.
Friends to more.
Waiting for You is tender, real, and full of all the feels, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
It’s the raw, relatable realness of the characters for me. Their emotions feel lived‑in, choices feel honest, and their connection is something you truly experience.
And listen… he falls first. And he falls hard. I was absolutely Team Jackson.
This book is an emotional investment well spent.
Single mom.
Friends to more.
Waiting for You is tender, real, and full of all the feels, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
It’s the raw, relatable realness of the characters for me. Their emotions feel lived‑in, choices feel honest, and their connection is something you truly experience.
And listen… he falls first. And he falls hard. I was absolutely Team Jackson.
This book is an emotional investment well spent.
July 9, 2026
Excellent read
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Essence and Jackson are friends, whose chemistry can’t be denied. They both love he other, but Essence doesn’t want to ruin their friendship. This is Essence and Jackson journey to forever love.
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Essence and Jackson are friends, whose chemistry can’t be denied. They both love he other, but Essence doesn’t want to ruin their friendship. This is Essence and Jackson journey to forever love.
July 6, 2026
Waiting for you!
I enjoyed this story and want more from the Priestly family! I love this family! There was never a dull moment with this family! Jackson and Essence was great together! Tray had a real father and it showed that blood is not always the next of kin! This was a great mature love story! I love this author's book! I am waiting anxiously for the next Priestly story! 5+
I enjoyed this story and want more from the Priestly family! I love this family! There was never a dull moment with this family! Jackson and Essence was great together! Tray had a real father and it showed that blood is not always the next of kin! This was a great mature love story! I love this author's book! I am waiting anxiously for the next Priestly story! 5+
June 18, 2026
Amazing!!
I loved this book!!! I read the whole series about The Priestly Family!!! I am glad that Essence closed it out!!! She got everything that Essence deserved!! Yay!!!!
I loved this book!!! I read the whole series about The Priestly Family!!! I am glad that Essence closed it out!!! She got everything that Essence deserved!! Yay!!!!
July 10, 2026
Sharon Cooper has done it again. I love the Priestly Family series, and this book was no exception. Essence and Jackson's story was a wonderful friends to lovers story! While Essence was reluctant, Jackson knew what he wanted and had no problem going after it. I enjoyed their story and loved how they did not let anyone from the past break their love and trust for one another. Jackson's relationship with Tray was a side a bonus. The love and respect they had for one another was great. Terrific father/son relationship even though Jackson is not his bio-Dad. After reading this I dug up all the other books, so I do a reread of the entire series.
Kudos Ms. Cooper and please keep these great stories coming!!
Kudos Ms. Cooper and please keep these great stories coming!!
June 11, 2026
Jackson and Essence, behold a beautiful love story
Jackson and Essence, journey to forever was dreamy. It showed what happens when you're willing to be vulnerable and transparent, allowing your heart and mind to align. I love that Tray was a bridge in this story. Nothing like a man stepping up for a child not his own but making such a strong impact.
Sharon did a good job of navigating the real emotions of Essence while holding down the foundation of who she and Jackson were to one other.
You love how the Priestly's support and love one another.
Jackson and Essence, journey to forever was dreamy. It showed what happens when you're willing to be vulnerable and transparent, allowing your heart and mind to align. I love that Tray was a bridge in this story. Nothing like a man stepping up for a child not his own but making such a strong impact.
Sharon did a good job of navigating the real emotions of Essence while holding down the foundation of who she and Jackson were to one other.
You love how the Priestly's support and love one another.
Review of advance copy
After 16 years of platonic friendship between best friends Jackson and Essence, Jackson wants to take their friendship to a romantic level, Essence is hesitant, valuing their friendship over love that could go very wrong.
I decided to roll with the storyline but there is a finite window where a person is friend-zoned and it's damn near impossible, like seeing a unicorn to extricate oneself from this role, and 16 years would be impossible. However, since this is romance and I'm a strong believer in and let's face it, anything is possible!
Essence' son Tray and family are full onboard for the two of them having a romantic relationship, he loves Jackson and considers him his father. It takes lots of convincing Essence to give Jackson a chance and we find that Jackson and Essence shared a night of passion, off the page.
Just as she's deciding what to do about Jackson's persistance, his socialite ex-wife Savannah moves back to Chicago ready to give the past another chance but Jackson makes it clear to her that ship has sailed, though she's not easily deterred. I was perplexed as to why Savannah wanted to try again with Jackson because she's a snob that looks down on people with less money and social standing than her, and because Jackson is a firefighter it made me ask why'd she want him versus someone from her world. She causes a few hiccups but Essence is not swayed by her shenanigans.
Overall, I liked this couple and story, it was heartfelt and emotional, but again I was perplexed why Essence was so concerned about what her parents thought about her life choices, particularly her mother. Why— she's 40—not 17! Still, I liked this story. Recommended Read this Book!
ARC
For those familar with this author and her Atlanta's Finest series, Laz and Journey makes an appearance in this story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I decided to roll with the storyline but there is a finite window where a person is friend-zoned and it's damn near impossible, like seeing a unicorn to extricate oneself from this role, and 16 years would be impossible. However, since this is romance and I'm a strong believer in and let's face it, anything is possible!
Essence' son Tray and family are full onboard for the two of them having a romantic relationship, he loves Jackson and considers him his father. It takes lots of convincing Essence to give Jackson a chance and we find that Jackson and Essence shared a night of passion, off the page.
Just as she's deciding what to do about Jackson's persistance, his socialite ex-wife Savannah moves back to Chicago ready to give the past another chance but Jackson makes it clear to her that ship has sailed, though she's not easily deterred. I was perplexed as to why Savannah wanted to try again with Jackson because she's a snob that looks down on people with less money and social standing than her, and because Jackson is a firefighter it made me ask why'd she want him versus someone from her world. She causes a few hiccups but Essence is not swayed by her shenanigans.
Overall, I liked this couple and story, it was heartfelt and emotional, but again I was perplexed why Essence was so concerned about what her parents thought about her life choices, particularly her mother. Why— she's 40—not 17! Still, I liked this story. Recommended Read this Book!
ARC
For those familar with this author and her Atlanta's Finest series, Laz and Journey makes an appearance in this story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
The wait solidified the love they shared!
Jackson a beloved and fine Chicago firefighter has been in love with Essence, the beautiful single mother who is a nurse and the mother a handsome well raised nineteen year old son for the past few years. Theirs is a love story that has bloomed and blossomed over time. I picked this book up this afternoon and could not put it down. It was packed with drama only crazed exes can cause, a coming to terms with what is happening with these friends for the past sixteen years, embarking on sharing their feelings for each other and all of the other good juicy stuff that goes with it. Jackson and Essence make a really great couple and the Priestly family keeps on growing, loving, and being the family that embraces all around them. Sharon, I did not miss the connections brewing between Jackson and Essence's friends, and Essence's aunt and Jackson's dad. I can hardly wait for their stories. You are a great storyteller and I love how you captured my attention from the first few lines and never let it go until the end. I did not miss the appearance of one of Atlanta's Finest and his Gorgeous wife coming to lend a hand when needed. I truly enjoyed this story. Thank you for trusting me to be an advanced reader of your latest novel. It is another winner. Congratulations in advance.
Jackson a beloved and fine Chicago firefighter has been in love with Essence, the beautiful single mother who is a nurse and the mother a handsome well raised nineteen year old son for the past few years. Theirs is a love story that has bloomed and blossomed over time. I picked this book up this afternoon and could not put it down. It was packed with drama only crazed exes can cause, a coming to terms with what is happening with these friends for the past sixteen years, embarking on sharing their feelings for each other and all of the other good juicy stuff that goes with it. Jackson and Essence make a really great couple and the Priestly family keeps on growing, loving, and being the family that embraces all around them. Sharon, I did not miss the connections brewing between Jackson and Essence's friends, and Essence's aunt and Jackson's dad. I can hardly wait for their stories. You are a great storyteller and I love how you captured my attention from the first few lines and never let it go until the end. I did not miss the appearance of one of Atlanta's Finest and his Gorgeous wife coming to lend a hand when needed. I truly enjoyed this story. Thank you for trusting me to be an advanced reader of your latest novel. It is another winner. Congratulations in advance.
July 6, 2026
Essence and Jackson are best friends who have strong chemistry and attraction to each other. Jackson was burned by love, but he wants to take a chance with Essence. She wants to keep everything platonic. I loved how this story showed real emotions, and it felt real. Essence took her time navigating the relationship and didn't jump into anything. Jackson has definitely become one of my favorite book heroes. This book was good from start to finish. I was quite entertained and it was worth reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 8, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed the friends to lovers dynamic between Essence and Jackson. However, I must admit that Essence’s behavior occasionally made it difficult to keep her actual age in mind. On the other hand, Jackson displayed a mature demeanor throughout the story, revealing a clear vision for his future and exactly what he wanted out of life. He never once backed down, and his love and protectiveness extended not just for Essence but also to Tray as well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 12, 2026
Sweet story
We are finally at Essence and Jackson’s story. I love how they have been friends for years to only discover they could be more. They didn’t waste anytime cementing their relationship and having an HEA of their own. Great story and I hope there are more Priestly family and friend stories.
We are finally at Essence and Jackson’s story. I love how they have been friends for years to only discover they could be more. They didn’t waste anytime cementing their relationship and having an HEA of their own. Great story and I hope there are more Priestly family and friend stories.
July 21, 2026
I absolutely LOVED Essence and Jackson’s story
I admit some frustration at Essence. I wanted her to get on with it but I get why she was concerned. I wanted her to just let the feelings flow. It is always easier to see the flaws in others though and in true romance fashion it all worked out in the end!
I admit some frustration at Essence. I wanted her to get on with it but I get why she was concerned. I wanted her to just let the feelings flow. It is always easier to see the flaws in others though and in true romance fashion it all worked out in the end!
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