Book Review: The Conditions of Will by Jessa Hastings
From the moment I flipped open The Conditions of Will, I knew I was in for a treat. Jessa Hastings has an uncanny knack for crafting stories that immediately draw you in, and this one was no exception. I found myself captivated by Georgia Carter’s journey almost instantly—yes, I fell hard for another one of Hastings’ rich characters. As a reader, it felt like I was not just observing her life unfold, but living it right alongside her.
At its heart, The Conditions of Will is a poignant exploration of grief, family dynamics, and self-discovery. We follow Georgia back to her hometown after the sudden passing of her father, where she must confront not only her estranged family but also her own buried emotions. Enter her brother Oliver and his AA sponsor, Sam Penny, who add layers of complexity to Georgia’s already tumultuous world. This setup creates a rich tapestry of family drama, love, and the struggle to find one’s own voice amidst chaos.
Georgia is a marvel of a character. As a behavioral science and clinical psychology student, she possesses acute self-awareness and an ability to read people that many of us wish we had. Her intellect shines through her humor and depth, making her feel relatable and real. I often found myself nodding along, as her thoughts resonated with my own experiences—her struggles felt like my struggles, and that connection left a profound impact on me. It’s rare to find a character with whom you can identify so deeply, and Georgia has etched herself into my heart.
But then there’s her family—the most toxic bunch I’ve encountered in a long time. The relationship Georgia has with them is both heartbreaking and infuriating. My heart ached for her as she endured their betrayals, especially the cruelty from her mother and Maryanne. Hastings compellingly captures the pain of familial bonds that should offer comfort, but instead, wound deeper than most. I couldn’t help but root for Georgia to find her strength to break free from them, and Tennyson’s character arc—his growth and eventual redemption—provided a shining contrast to their toxicity.
Now, let’s talk about Sam Penny. Oh, Sam! If Georgia is the heart of this story, Sam is undoubtedly its soul. With his genuine charm, self-awareness, and tender respect for Georgia, he embodies the love we all hope to find. His relationship with Georgia felt authentic and organic, making their love story a central, uplifting thread amidst the emotional turmoil. At one point, Georgia reflects, "When he stops kissing me, which he eventually will… it will tear me in two, because I think I’ve been waiting to know Sam Penny all my life." That encapsulation of longing speaks to anyone who has ever experienced a profound connection, doesn’t it?
Hastings’ writing is simply exquisite. The narrative flows beautifully, weaving seamlessly through humor, heartbreak, and the tender moments of human connection. Her ability to resonate with readers is masterful; every page felt like it was crafted with care. However, I must admit that the last two chapters left me feeling slightly unsatisfied, like something essential was just out of reach. While they didn’t detract significantly from my overall enjoyment, it kept this gem from being a polished five-star read for me.
Ultimately, I wholeheartedly recommend The Conditions of Will—whether you’re familiar with Hastings’ work or a newcomer, this story is a journey worth taking. It deftly navigates the complexities of love, family, and self-acceptance, leaving you with lingering reflections on grief and healing. I left this book feeling enriched, but also a little emptier, as saying goodbye to Georgia, Sam, and their world was bittersweet. For anyone who enjoys beautifully crafted characters and emotionally resonant storytelling, this book promises to be an unforgettable experience.