Book Review: The Will (Magdalene #1) by Kristen Ashley

I can't believe it took me so long to start this series. The Will was such a phenomenal read and I loved the world of Magdalene. I can't wait to read them all. This is not to be missed!

The Will (Magdalene #1) by Kristen Ashley

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.

5 out of 5 stars

Have you ever started a book and just knew it was going to be epic? That’s what happened to me when I picked up The Will. This was an amazingly beautiful story full of healing and love, family and bonds, and so much heart and emotion. I adored everything!

I thought Jose and Jake were fantastic. I loved learning them and watching them come together. I loved Josie opening up, moving forward, and really living her life. She was such a complicated woman with a hard past so I totally understood the guard she had up and what her grandmother wanted for her. As far as Jake is concerned – this man has swoon-worthy down! I loved how hard he worked to take care of those he loved. I loved Jake and Josie’s story and all the feelings it brought out in me. I thought the build was incredible and I had a seriously hard time putting it down.

There are a ton of excellent characters in the mix and I loved those interactions, Jake’s kids were fantastic and I loved Mickey. I really liked all the smaller stories woven in, there were just so many layers. I love how they were intertwined and how Josie was involved with them. There were so many great bonds and connections happening. There are good guys, bad guys, adult drama, teenage drama, tension, and angst. There's also love and healing, forgiveness and longing. And sexiness. Oh, the sexy! It was all awesome.

I enjoyed this story so very much and I loved how everything evolved, it was like I was a part of this wonderful journey. Kristen Ashley is one of my favorite authors and reading this book for me was like coming home. As always, she's a master at writing an epilogue. I might have gone through a few tissues. The Will was an exceptional story that painted a picturesque world of Magdalene that I am very much looking forward to going back too. Exceptional read!