The Conditions of Will

This edgy and multilayered contemporary from Hastings (Never) follows Georgia Carter, who has been the black sheep of her South Carolina family ever since her older sister, Maryanne, walked in on her 18-year-old boyfriend, Beckett, raping 14-year-old Georgia and blamed Georgia for seducing him. In the wake of this scandal, Georgia was shipped off to a boarding school in London, leaving behind her cherished brother Oliver, who is also a family outcast after coming out as gay. Ten years later, Georgia, now a professional body language expert, reunites with her siblings after their father’s unexpected death. It’s hard being back in her small hometown for the funeral, especially as Maryanne and Beckett are still dating and her brothers don’t know that he forced himself on Georgia. But there’s a saving grace: Oliver’s AA sponsor, Sam Penny, with whom she feels an immediate connection. She knows their romance would hurt Oliver, however, so she tries to keep her distance—with little success. As forbidden love blooms, family secrets bubble to the surface, including a revelation about their parents’ relationship. Hastings doesn’t pull any emotional punches as the angsty plot unfolds. Readers who like their romances on the dark and soapy side will eat this up. (Apr.)