Review for The Will by Kristen Ashley

The Will (The Magdalene Series Book 1)

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00HYIF9FW

• Publication date ‏ : ‎ April 8, 2014
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
•  Print length ‏ : ‎ 375 pages 
• Book 1 of 3 ‏ : ‎ The Magdalene Series
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Early in her life, Josephine Malone learned the hard way that there was only one person she could love and trust: her grandmother, Lydia Malone. Out of necessity, unconsciously and very successfully, Josephine donned a disguise to keep all others at bay. She led a globetrotting lifestyle on the fringes of the fashion and music elite, but she kept herself distant.

While Josephine was trotting the globe, retired boxer Jake Spear was living in the same small town as Lydia. There was nothing disguised about Jake. Including the fact he made a habit of making very bad decisions about who to give his love.

But for Josephine and Jake, there was one person who adored them. One person who knew how to lead them to happiness. And one person who was intent on doing it.

Even if she had to do it as her final wish on this earth.

Embarking on a new Kristen Ashley book is always an emotional journey for us. Her stories consistently touch my heart. This author sets a high standard for all subsequent reads.  The tale lingers in my mind, evoking a sense of 'book nostalgia,' a longing for stories that never have to end. While I have cherished every Kristen Ashley book I've read, this one stands out as the most epic, capturing my heart. We loved everything about this story; the characters were superb.

 Jake Spear, a stranger to Josie, emerges as a central figure in her grandmother's will. Despite their apparent disconnect, her grandmother held Jake in high esteem, leaving Josie torn between honoring her grandmother's wishes and navigating her newfound responsibilities. Jake, a local entrepreneur and devoted father, embodies a stark contrast to Josie's past aspirations and lifestyle. Yet, she finds herself drawn to him, challenging her perceptions of happiness and fulfillment. "...

After years of suppressing her dreams  and prioritizing others' needs over her own, Josie confronts the possibility of embracing her deepest desires and forming a lasting connection with Jake and his family.

While the characters in this story navigate different life stages and challenges, their connection and passion resonate with the intensity characteristic of Kristen Ashley's novels. Their journey toward love and fulfillment is marked by moments of heart-pounding excitement, heartwarming joy, and breathless anticipation.

This tale encapsulates themes of second chances at love and the pursuit of happiness later in life. It portrays the transformative power of recognizing and embracing love when it presents itself, regardless of perceived worthiness. Kristen Ashley's signature style shines through in her evocative prose, compelling dialogue, drawing readers into a world brimming with emotion and authenticity. 

As the story unfolds, readers are treated to a poignant narrative that transcends reality, transforming everyday experiences into enchanting fairy tales. Kristen Ashley's books occupy a unique space in the literary realm, deserving of a distinct rating scale. If I were to choose a favorite among her works, this book would undoubtedly claim that title. I assure you that this story will leave an indelible mark on you, resonating long after you turn the final page.  

Favorite quote - "My most precious possession, the thing I treasure above anything else in this world, I hereby bequeath to. you"

Kristen Ashley was born in Gary, Indiana, USA. She nearly killed her mother and herself making it into the world, seeing as she had the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck (already attempting to accessorise and she hadn't taken her first breath!).

Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.

Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).

Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.

And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.