Book Review: The Conditions of Will by Jessa Hastings
When I first picked up The Conditions of Will, I had an inkling I was in for something special. Jessa Hastings has a phenomenal talent for crafting characters that leap off the page, and her latest novel did not disappoint. Without a doubt, this has become one of my favorite reads this year, compelling me to dive into the world she created with fervent excitement. By the end, I felt an ache of emptiness, as if losing a friend rather than leaving a book.
At its heart, The Conditions of Will centers around Georgia Carter, a Cambridge student grappling with the aftermath of her father’s sudden death. Returning home to face her estranged family, she navigates grief, family dysfunction, and unexpected romantic feelings that develop along the way. It’s a story rich with emotion, and Georgia’s journey is both relatable and heartrending. I fell in love with her character from the very beginning; she is smart, self-aware, and at times painfully real. Her insights into human behavior, shaped by her studies in psychology, mirrored many of my own internal dialogues, making her feel like an echo of my thoughts.
The depiction of Georgia’s family was a masterclass in showcasing toxicity and emotional betrayal. I found myself wrestling with intense feelings toward her mother and brother, Oliver. To see someone as loving as Georgia enduring such emotional turmoil left me seething. Oliver’s demands for forgiveness while he wallowed in self-pity made my skin crawl. I have little patience for characters who evade responsibility, and I painfully remembered moments in my life where I dealt with similar dynamics. Yet, amidst the turmoil, Tennyson stood out. His journey toward accountability brought a touch of hope that complemented Georgia’s struggles.
Then there’s Sam Penny—ah, what a breath of fresh air! A character who exudes respect, charm, and a depth of understanding that feels almost miraculous. When Georgia describes him, you can sense the way he lights up a room, an energy that draws you in and makes you cheer for their love story. His keen awareness of Georgia’s needs contrasted beautifully with the chaos she faced in her family life. Quotes like, “You love me blindly,” and the tender exchanges they shared layered their relationship with authenticity, instantly resonating with my own hopes for love.
Hastings’ writing style continues to astonish me. Her narratives weave between poignant reflections and heartwarming dialogue, effortlessly bringing emotions to life. The pacing strikes a perfect balance, keeping you engaged without feeling rushed. However, I found myself longing for just a bit more in the closing chapters—nothing overtly wrong, but that ineffable feeling missing, which is always what tips a read from great to five-star.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Conditions of Will to anyone who finds themselves drawn to stories about family dynamics and complex relationships. This novel explores grief, self-awareness, and the blessings and trials of love. Jessa Hastings has, once again, crafted a compelling narrative that resonates deeply, and I can’t wait to have more readers experience this journey.
In sharing my thoughts, I hope to evoke a little curiosity and excitement around this book, encouraging you to dive deep into the world of Georgia, Sam, and the disarming chaos of familial love. After all, finding oneself among such relatable characters and experiences is why we read—and The Conditions of Will delivers on that promise beautifully.