What do you think?
Rate this book
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 books949 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
Website: http://sharoncooper.net
Join Sharon’s mailing list: https://bit.ly/31Xsm36
Facebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorSharonC...
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/sharonccooper/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorsharo...
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/profile/sharo...
BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/sharonccoope...
Website: http://sharoncooper.net
Join Sharon’s mailing list: https://bit.ly/31Xsm36
Facebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorSharonC...
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/sharonccooper/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorsharo...
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/profile/sharo...
BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/sharonccoope...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
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 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 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 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!!!!!
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.
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.
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.
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!!!!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews