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Will She Break
A story about HIDDEN PAIN, HEAVY SECRETS,
and the FIGHT to BREAK THROUGH the darkness.
Will She Break is a journey through GRIEF, LOVE, and the BRAVEST BATTLE of all, learning that healing doesn’t mean standing alone, and sometimes the strongest thing you can do is let someone in.
Emma Grayson has spent years trying to prove to everyone, including herself, that she’s enough. After surviving an abusive past, she’s learned to keep her heart guarded. But when an unexpected connection with a friend begins to break through her carefully built walls, Emma is forced to confront a terrifying question. Will she fight to keep those walls in place, or will she break them down for love?
Blake Bolton keeps his pain hidden behind his lopsided smile and funny guy attitude. He doesn’t even let his closest friends see the truth. With the fear of what his future may hold and his anger starting to boil over, the last thing he expects is to fall for his friend, the sweet one with kind eyes and her own buried scars. Falling for her feels like the one part of Blake’s life that makes sense, but will he risk loving another person he’s terrified to lose?
and the FIGHT to BREAK THROUGH the darkness.
Will She Break is a journey through GRIEF, LOVE, and the BRAVEST BATTLE of all, learning that healing doesn’t mean standing alone, and sometimes the strongest thing you can do is let someone in.
Emma Grayson has spent years trying to prove to everyone, including herself, that she’s enough. After surviving an abusive past, she’s learned to keep her heart guarded. But when an unexpected connection with a friend begins to break through her carefully built walls, Emma is forced to confront a terrifying question. Will she fight to keep those walls in place, or will she break them down for love?
Blake Bolton keeps his pain hidden behind his lopsided smile and funny guy attitude. He doesn’t even let his closest friends see the truth. With the fear of what his future may hold and his anger starting to boil over, the last thing he expects is to fall for his friend, the sweet one with kind eyes and her own buried scars. Falling for her feels like the one part of Blake’s life that makes sense, but will he risk loving another person he’s terrified to lose?
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2025
1 person is currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Alyssa-Ray Bouman
3 books99 followersAlyssa-Ray Bouman is a wife, mom, Christian, and licensed cosmetology teacher who somehow manages to juggle it all while chasing her wild toddler around their family farm in New Jersey. Before diving into writing, she worked as a substance abuse counselor. She loves weaving heart, humor, and just the right amount of chaos into her writing, creating characters and narratives that feel real and relatable.
When she’s not writing, she’s off on adventures with her husband, playing with their son, attempting to drink a hot cup of coffee, or trying to read a book. Her time in the Adirondacks has inspired her to bring the beauty of nature and life’s messy, meaningful moments into her stories. Somehow, between nap times and endless piles of laundry, she always finds a way to craft the next chapter—because in her world, life and storytelling are one big adventure.
When she’s not writing, she’s off on adventures with her husband, playing with their son, attempting to drink a hot cup of coffee, or trying to read a book. Her time in the Adirondacks has inspired her to bring the beauty of nature and life’s messy, meaningful moments into her stories. Somehow, between nap times and endless piles of laundry, she always finds a way to craft the next chapter—because in her world, life and storytelling are one big adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 1, 2025
I am so incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have received an advanced copy of Will She Break from the author! 🫶
“You are my constant. You’re my North Star. For the first time in my life, I don’t feel lost, and it’s because of you.”
It is time for me to give a standing ovation to Will She Break because this story is everything, gave me goosebumps, and will forever hold a space in my heart and soul for all eternity! 🥹💕 Will She Break is the final book in the Will Of The Heart series and I am currently crying that it’s over because it’s one of my favorite book series ever! 😭💔 I don’t know how Alyssa-Ray continues to write books that continue to get better and better considering the books in this series are top-tier but it happened again because this one is my absolute favorite in the series! ❤️ I was taken on such an emotional rollercoaster ride where one minute I’m ugly crying, the next minute I am squealing, and the minute after that I’m laughing so hard I snorted water out of my nose! 😱🙈🙀🤯😭💔❤️🩹🥰😂 I stayed up late for the ARC to drop in my email and started reading this as soon as I received it and couldn’t put it down till I finished! 🫶
I ship Emma and Blake so much that I created a shipping name for them: it’s Emlake (Emma and Blake combined together 🤭). Alyssa-Ray is a master of creating characters that I relate to so incredibly deeply and I related to both Emma and Blake so much! 🥺🖤 Emma is an overthinker times infinity and that truly is me to a tee. Every time in the story she is overthinking a situation I felt for her so hard and just wanted to give her the biggest hug! ❤️ Blake on the other hand is going through so much with his mother going through cancer and it made me cry so hard! 😭💔 His reaction of wanting to be “strong” and not wanting to tell people what he is going through because otherwise that would make the situation real is so relatable! 🥺
Something that truly is incredibly impressive is the fact that Alyssa-Ray intertwines the events of Will She Run and Will She Choose into this book seamlessly! 😍 I can’t even begin to imagine how much time that must have took to be able to mesh that all together into one but it was done so well! 🖤 Additionally, this book is for all levels of spice lovers! 🫶 Alyssa-Ray has markings throughout the book for non-spice lovers to skip pass if they don’t want to read the spicy scenes and if you are a spice lover the spice scenes are there so it works for all kinds of readers! 🥹 Overall, these characters and this series truly feel like family and it felt like returning home with picking up this one! 🫶
If you love small town romance, slow burn, mental health representation, cancer/caretaker representation, friends to lovers, hurt and healing, and a book that will leave an imprint on your heart forever then this is the book for you! 🫶
“You are my constant. You’re my North Star. For the first time in my life, I don’t feel lost, and it’s because of you.”
It is time for me to give a standing ovation to Will She Break because this story is everything, gave me goosebumps, and will forever hold a space in my heart and soul for all eternity! 🥹💕 Will She Break is the final book in the Will Of The Heart series and I am currently crying that it’s over because it’s one of my favorite book series ever! 😭💔 I don’t know how Alyssa-Ray continues to write books that continue to get better and better considering the books in this series are top-tier but it happened again because this one is my absolute favorite in the series! ❤️ I was taken on such an emotional rollercoaster ride where one minute I’m ugly crying, the next minute I am squealing, and the minute after that I’m laughing so hard I snorted water out of my nose! 😱🙈🙀🤯😭💔❤️🩹🥰😂 I stayed up late for the ARC to drop in my email and started reading this as soon as I received it and couldn’t put it down till I finished! 🫶
I ship Emma and Blake so much that I created a shipping name for them: it’s Emlake (Emma and Blake combined together 🤭). Alyssa-Ray is a master of creating characters that I relate to so incredibly deeply and I related to both Emma and Blake so much! 🥺🖤 Emma is an overthinker times infinity and that truly is me to a tee. Every time in the story she is overthinking a situation I felt for her so hard and just wanted to give her the biggest hug! ❤️ Blake on the other hand is going through so much with his mother going through cancer and it made me cry so hard! 😭💔 His reaction of wanting to be “strong” and not wanting to tell people what he is going through because otherwise that would make the situation real is so relatable! 🥺
Something that truly is incredibly impressive is the fact that Alyssa-Ray intertwines the events of Will She Run and Will She Choose into this book seamlessly! 😍 I can’t even begin to imagine how much time that must have took to be able to mesh that all together into one but it was done so well! 🖤 Additionally, this book is for all levels of spice lovers! 🫶 Alyssa-Ray has markings throughout the book for non-spice lovers to skip pass if they don’t want to read the spicy scenes and if you are a spice lover the spice scenes are there so it works for all kinds of readers! 🥹 Overall, these characters and this series truly feel like family and it felt like returning home with picking up this one! 🫶
If you love small town romance, slow burn, mental health representation, cancer/caretaker representation, friends to lovers, hurt and healing, and a book that will leave an imprint on your heart forever then this is the book for you! 🫶
November 10, 2025
ARC Review:
This book had me from the dedication on. I never thought there would be a book that I related to as much as this book. I loved the Golden Girls reference too! This was a fantastic read! I couldn't put it down and it played out in my head like a movie. Alyssa-Ray's use of descriptive words made this book outstanding! This is definitely one you don’t want to miss. This was a terrific end to the series.
"She’s like looking up at a dark sky and finding the north star, the one that promises to lead you home."
This book had me from the dedication on. I never thought there would be a book that I related to as much as this book. I loved the Golden Girls reference too! This was a fantastic read! I couldn't put it down and it played out in my head like a movie. Alyssa-Ray's use of descriptive words made this book outstanding! This is definitely one you don’t want to miss. This was a terrific end to the series.
"She’s like looking up at a dark sky and finding the north star, the one that promises to lead you home."
November 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don’t even know where to begin to unpack this book. First of all, I am now fully convinced that if Mrs. Bouman writes a book, I’m reading it—no questions asked. She might just be the new Queen of Romance. The depth of her characters and the way she develops her stories is nothing short of genius.
This is the third book in the Will of the Heart series, and while each one can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading all three in order. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the writing and how beautifully the stories intertwine.
This installment focuses on Emma and Blake. Emma has endured so much—abuse from both her ex-boyfriend and her mother, each in their own damaging way. Those experiences have left deep scars that shape how she moves through the world and whom she dares to trust. Blake, one of Emma’s longtime friends, has his own struggles. He’s known for his “summer-only” relationships, but beneath that reputation is a man dealing with anger, abandonment, and the pain of watching his mother battle cancer for years.
I’ll admit, there were moments when I was frustrated with Blake—especially when he kept secrets from Emma, knowing her history. But once I reached the end and reflected on their journey, I truly appreciated how Bouman used those moments to show that both characters needed to heal and find their strength individually before they could truly be together. It was raw, emotional, and so authentic.
On the spice level, this book is definitely a slow burn—and I loved that. Blake helps Emma reclaim her confidence and comfort with intimacy, but the author takes her time letting their relationship unfold. It feels real and earned, not rushed, which is rare in today’s romance novels.
If you love emotional, character-driven love stories that explore healing, trust, and personal growth—with just the right amount of slow-burn chemistry—this book (and this series!) is a must-read. Mrs. Bouman has outdone herself once again.
I don’t even know where to begin to unpack this book. First of all, I am now fully convinced that if Mrs. Bouman writes a book, I’m reading it—no questions asked. She might just be the new Queen of Romance. The depth of her characters and the way she develops her stories is nothing short of genius.
This is the third book in the Will of the Heart series, and while each one can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading all three in order. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the writing and how beautifully the stories intertwine.
This installment focuses on Emma and Blake. Emma has endured so much—abuse from both her ex-boyfriend and her mother, each in their own damaging way. Those experiences have left deep scars that shape how she moves through the world and whom she dares to trust. Blake, one of Emma’s longtime friends, has his own struggles. He’s known for his “summer-only” relationships, but beneath that reputation is a man dealing with anger, abandonment, and the pain of watching his mother battle cancer for years.
I’ll admit, there were moments when I was frustrated with Blake—especially when he kept secrets from Emma, knowing her history. But once I reached the end and reflected on their journey, I truly appreciated how Bouman used those moments to show that both characters needed to heal and find their strength individually before they could truly be together. It was raw, emotional, and so authentic.
On the spice level, this book is definitely a slow burn—and I loved that. Blake helps Emma reclaim her confidence and comfort with intimacy, but the author takes her time letting their relationship unfold. It feels real and earned, not rushed, which is rare in today’s romance novels.
If you love emotional, character-driven love stories that explore healing, trust, and personal growth—with just the right amount of slow-burn chemistry—this book (and this series!) is a must-read. Mrs. Bouman has outdone herself once again.
November 13, 2025
“Some stories don’t just touch your heart, they bruise it and heal it all at once.”
Will She Break wrecked me in the most beautiful way. It’s not just a love story, it’s about survival, second chances, and finding light in the places you thought were forever dark.
Alyssa-Ray Bouman captured what it means to live with pain, to love through it, and to still believe that healing is possible. This book doesn’t shy away from hard things, it faces them head-on, with tenderness and truth.
Emma Grayson is one of the most emotionally complex heroines I’ve read in a long time. She’s raw, scarred, and so determined to hold herself together that she forgets she doesn’t have to. Watching her slowly let her guard down and realize she deserves love, not the easy kind, but the real kind, hit me hard.
And then there’s Blake Bolton. The man hides his pain behind humor, but underneath it all is a heart that beats pure devotion. He’s not perfect, he’s human, scared, protective, and absolutely determined to be Emma’s safe place even when he can’t fix everything. Their friendship-turned-love feels earned, not rushed. It’s slow, aching, and incredibly genuine.
Between the mental health rep, cancer/caretaker storyline, and family dynamics, this story feels real, painfully real, but never hopeless. It’s full of quiet strength, soft moments, and the kind of love that doesn’t just patch wounds, it teaches you to breathe again.
If you love:
🏡 Small towns with big hearts
💕 Friends-to-lovers slow burns
🧠 Emotional depth & healing arcs
🎗️ Realistic mental health & caretaker representation
then Will She Break will absolutely own you.
This isn’t a book you read once. It’s one you feel. One you’ll carry with you long after you close the last page.
🖤 She’s been through hell. He’s been her peace. And together, they learn that breaking doesn’t mean you’re weak, it means you’re still fighting.
Will She Break wrecked me in the most beautiful way. It’s not just a love story, it’s about survival, second chances, and finding light in the places you thought were forever dark.
Alyssa-Ray Bouman captured what it means to live with pain, to love through it, and to still believe that healing is possible. This book doesn’t shy away from hard things, it faces them head-on, with tenderness and truth.
Emma Grayson is one of the most emotionally complex heroines I’ve read in a long time. She’s raw, scarred, and so determined to hold herself together that she forgets she doesn’t have to. Watching her slowly let her guard down and realize she deserves love, not the easy kind, but the real kind, hit me hard.
And then there’s Blake Bolton. The man hides his pain behind humor, but underneath it all is a heart that beats pure devotion. He’s not perfect, he’s human, scared, protective, and absolutely determined to be Emma’s safe place even when he can’t fix everything. Their friendship-turned-love feels earned, not rushed. It’s slow, aching, and incredibly genuine.
Between the mental health rep, cancer/caretaker storyline, and family dynamics, this story feels real, painfully real, but never hopeless. It’s full of quiet strength, soft moments, and the kind of love that doesn’t just patch wounds, it teaches you to breathe again.
If you love:
🏡 Small towns with big hearts
💕 Friends-to-lovers slow burns
🧠 Emotional depth & healing arcs
🎗️ Realistic mental health & caretaker representation
then Will She Break will absolutely own you.
This isn’t a book you read once. It’s one you feel. One you’ll carry with you long after you close the last page.
🖤 She’s been through hell. He’s been her peace. And together, they learn that breaking doesn’t mean you’re weak, it means you’re still fighting.
November 12, 2025
This series was so good and had me in a chokehold immediately. We got to meet all characters in book 1 with glimpses of them revealed more and more as time went on. The lead up to Blake and Emma had me am excited else know more about their stories and they did not disappoint. Found family is becoming more prominent in books lately and I just have not found that trope done in a bad way by anyway. Emma’s mom was so awful to her, caused her so many insecurities and doubts within herself, but i am so grateful she found her people, especially Callie, to help her truly find her value as a person. They had a friendship people dream of and when she finally let her guard down to let Blake in…she was way better off than the lifetime of struggles she had with her own family. And even with Blake’s own struggles, he kept them bottled I and never wanted to be pitied or looked down on for his own problems. He still showed up for his people day in and down out, while he carried the world on his shoulders. I loved the mental health rep in this book, the constant encouraging that it’s ok not to be ok but that we will still be here and show up for when you need us. Watching each of their barriers crumble was so healing and their “grand gestures” were so swoony. I’m so glad there was such a good presence of the previous characters and we didn’t have to say goodbye to them just yet. Absolutely fantastic series and I’m so excited for the spinoff series!
November 18, 2025
*I was given an ARC of this book in return for an honest review*
I really liked this book and have to say it's my favorite in the series.
While I enjoyed the relationships and stories in the first two books, the story in this one just felt real.
For Emma, who is dealing with a rather toxic and emotionally abusive mother, as well as a physically abusive boyfriend (pretty quickly ex), I was just pulled in, rooting for her to find happiness while she tried so hard to mask her pain. Heartbreaking.
Then you have Blake, who is flirty and funny and charming, so basically everything the ladies want. But he is hiding pain as well. He has some trust and abandonment issues, and add to it his mother's failing health; it's a lot.
Watching these to build their walls and then move close enough to bring them down, only to have the smallest thing sending them into rebuild mode- tough, but like I said, so understandable.
While I enjoyed that this book kind of goes through the series, from Emma and Blake's POVs, it does so without giving too much away about the first two books. However, because it did this, it also felt like an aside or recap rather than its own story sometimes.
Either way, I thought it was well done and now (as said before) my fave in the series!
Bring a box of tissues and a comfy blanket as this book hits hard in the feels, but is also filled with finding the strength to heal yourself.
I really liked this book and have to say it's my favorite in the series.
While I enjoyed the relationships and stories in the first two books, the story in this one just felt real.
For Emma, who is dealing with a rather toxic and emotionally abusive mother, as well as a physically abusive boyfriend (pretty quickly ex), I was just pulled in, rooting for her to find happiness while she tried so hard to mask her pain. Heartbreaking.
Then you have Blake, who is flirty and funny and charming, so basically everything the ladies want. But he is hiding pain as well. He has some trust and abandonment issues, and add to it his mother's failing health; it's a lot.
Watching these to build their walls and then move close enough to bring them down, only to have the smallest thing sending them into rebuild mode- tough, but like I said, so understandable.
While I enjoyed that this book kind of goes through the series, from Emma and Blake's POVs, it does so without giving too much away about the first two books. However, because it did this, it also felt like an aside or recap rather than its own story sometimes.
Either way, I thought it was well done and now (as said before) my fave in the series!
Bring a box of tissues and a comfy blanket as this book hits hard in the feels, but is also filled with finding the strength to heal yourself.
November 3, 2025
'Recuerda por qué vale la pena luchar' -
"Remember what's worth fighting for,"
Wow! This one broke me in all the right ways. @alyssaraywrites did it again, Blake and Emma's story was honest, beautiful and inspiring, full of found family, slow burn, spice and humour it's my favourite yet.
A story about HIDDEN PAIN, HEAVY SECRETS, and the FIGHT to BREAK THROUGH the darkness.
Will She Break is a journey through GRIEF, LOVE, and the BRAVEST BATTLE of all, learning that healing doesn't mean standing alone, and sometimes the strongest thing you can do is let someone in.
Emma Grayson has spent years trying to prove to everyone, including herself, that she's enough. After surviving an abusive past, she's learned to keep her heart guarded. But when an unexpected connection with a friend begins to break through her carefully built walls, Emma is forced to confront a terrifying question.
Will she fight to keep those walls in place, or will she break them down for love?
Blake Bolton keeps his pain hidden behind his lopsided smile and funny guy attitude. He doesn't even let his closest friends see the truth. With the fear of what his future may hold and his anger starting to boil over, the last thing he expects is to fall for his friend, the sweet one with kind eyes and her own buried scars. Falling for her feels like the one part of Blake's life that makes sense, but will he risk loving another person he's terrified to lose?
November 10, 2025
I can't believe this is the last book of the "will of the heart series" I wasn't ready for it to end. It was so nice coming back to the town and reading about all the characters again. This one in particular really took me on a rollercoaster ride emotionally. Reading about a loss of a parent always does but I also find that it heals me too.
Blake and Emma I was unsure about at first but as the story progressed I could see how good they could be for each other. Blake seriously had so much patience with Emma. Emma really put him through the ringer I felt and held him at arms length for so long. On one hand I totally could relate to Blake not wanting to 'speak what's wrong' into existence because that makes it that much more real. When we keep things from those we love though we hurt them. I definitely felt all the feels in this one. A powerful line Blake says in the book that stuck with me - “You are my constant. You’re my North Star. For the first time in my life, I don’t feel lost, and it’s because of you.” How wonderful it is to have your person and feel this way I know I do.
It's reminders like this book that life is so short and so precious don't waste a minute of it. Love deeply, care openly, and always be honest with not only yourself but others. This small town romance will melt your heart and leave a lasting impact on you. I highly recommend the whole series!
Blake and Emma I was unsure about at first but as the story progressed I could see how good they could be for each other. Blake seriously had so much patience with Emma. Emma really put him through the ringer I felt and held him at arms length for so long. On one hand I totally could relate to Blake not wanting to 'speak what's wrong' into existence because that makes it that much more real. When we keep things from those we love though we hurt them. I definitely felt all the feels in this one. A powerful line Blake says in the book that stuck with me - “You are my constant. You’re my North Star. For the first time in my life, I don’t feel lost, and it’s because of you.” How wonderful it is to have your person and feel this way I know I do.
It's reminders like this book that life is so short and so precious don't waste a minute of it. Love deeply, care openly, and always be honest with not only yourself but others. This small town romance will melt your heart and leave a lasting impact on you. I highly recommend the whole series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2025
Just like the first two books in the Will of the Heart series, this one took me on an emotional rollercoaster and maybe even more so, because it hit closer to home.
From the very first page, I was pulled into Emma's world, a place shaped by silence, survival, and secrets. Her pain is quiet but crushing, and her strength lies in a way where she keeps going, even when it hurts.
Then there's Blake, the friend who sneaks up on you and makes you laugh. His humor masks heartbreak, yet his presence is both comforting and complicated, and his vulnerability is as moving as it is unexpected.
I couldn't help but cheer for Emma and Blake as they slowly let their guards down and opened up to each other, finally found peace, but then secrets unraveled with heartbreak, betrayal, and grief. But in the end, their ride didn't end in despair, it ended in courage. In choosing love over fear and realizing that healing isn't about being unbreakable, it's about letting someone hold the broken pieces with you.
Alyssa-Ray does not sugarcoat trauma. She writes with raw honesty and unflinching grit, and it hits deep. I cried, I laughed, and at times wanted to jump into the book, slap Blake, and secretly hug Joe. I love that man!
This book is for anyone who has ever been afraid to let someone in and for everyone who has discovered that the bravest thing you can do is say, “I need you.”
From the very first page, I was pulled into Emma's world, a place shaped by silence, survival, and secrets. Her pain is quiet but crushing, and her strength lies in a way where she keeps going, even when it hurts.
Then there's Blake, the friend who sneaks up on you and makes you laugh. His humor masks heartbreak, yet his presence is both comforting and complicated, and his vulnerability is as moving as it is unexpected.
I couldn't help but cheer for Emma and Blake as they slowly let their guards down and opened up to each other, finally found peace, but then secrets unraveled with heartbreak, betrayal, and grief. But in the end, their ride didn't end in despair, it ended in courage. In choosing love over fear and realizing that healing isn't about being unbreakable, it's about letting someone hold the broken pieces with you.
Alyssa-Ray does not sugarcoat trauma. She writes with raw honesty and unflinching grit, and it hits deep. I cried, I laughed, and at times wanted to jump into the book, slap Blake, and secretly hug Joe. I love that man!
This book is for anyone who has ever been afraid to let someone in and for everyone who has discovered that the bravest thing you can do is say, “I need you.”
December 18, 2025
Will she break is a character driven romance packed with emotional intensity with the power to heal. The story is a mix between raw emotion and banter (some of what I enjoyed was more internal dialogue during the banter) with a slow start and a strong finish. I related strongly to Emma, and I think my own heartache kept me from fully enjoying the story.
This author does a fantastic job of layering real life into complex characters. They are truly multi-dimensional and the path taken from friendship to love story feels like you’re hearing the story from a friend, it’s that real. Broken, and imperfect, these two find ways to reach into the cracks and help each other learn to trust and heal. Just like real life, as Emma’s old wounds heal there are new troubles to live past. Through it all these two form a supportive connection that helps them both to overcome all the things that have blocked them from receiving love.
I think Bouman did an admirable job it portraying ptsd with all the anxiety and depression that comes from surviving trauma. Blake also has his own trials to endure, and loving Emma helps them both to become even stronger.
I would recommend this book, but it is heavy.
This author does a fantastic job of layering real life into complex characters. They are truly multi-dimensional and the path taken from friendship to love story feels like you’re hearing the story from a friend, it’s that real. Broken, and imperfect, these two find ways to reach into the cracks and help each other learn to trust and heal. Just like real life, as Emma’s old wounds heal there are new troubles to live past. Through it all these two form a supportive connection that helps them both to overcome all the things that have blocked them from receiving love.
I think Bouman did an admirable job it portraying ptsd with all the anxiety and depression that comes from surviving trauma. Blake also has his own trials to endure, and loving Emma helps them both to become even stronger.
I would recommend this book, but it is heavy.
November 9, 2025
Thank you, Alyssa-Ray Bouman for the ARC of Will She Break
"Blake makes me feel brave. He’s slowly chipping away at my polished walls and bringing out a side of me that I thought was snuffed out a long time ago, whether it be by my mother’s hands or Trent’s, who really knows?"
Review:
Will She Break is an emotionally beautiful story with the most amazing, perfectly imperfect characters.
I loved 😍 this book so much. Honestly, I loved the entire series.
I enjoyed the the small-town setting and all of the friendships and relationships. Seriously, I wish I had a friend group as great as this one. All of the places where they work and hang out sound like a lot of fun!
Emma and Blake are great lead characters. They both have struggled with things that make their lives challenging and I think it's easy to relate to them.
This book was so entertaining! There are secrets and surprises, great banter - and I loved the Emma-isms. 😂
Will She Break Will be released November 10th (tomorrow!) The first two books in the series are available on Kindle Unlimited. ❤️
"Blake makes me feel brave. He’s slowly chipping away at my polished walls and bringing out a side of me that I thought was snuffed out a long time ago, whether it be by my mother’s hands or Trent’s, who really knows?"
Review:
Will She Break is an emotionally beautiful story with the most amazing, perfectly imperfect characters.
I loved 😍 this book so much. Honestly, I loved the entire series.
I enjoyed the the small-town setting and all of the friendships and relationships. Seriously, I wish I had a friend group as great as this one. All of the places where they work and hang out sound like a lot of fun!
Emma and Blake are great lead characters. They both have struggled with things that make their lives challenging and I think it's easy to relate to them.
This book was so entertaining! There are secrets and surprises, great banter - and I loved the Emma-isms. 😂
Will She Break Will be released November 10th (tomorrow!) The first two books in the series are available on Kindle Unlimited. ❤️
November 18, 2025
Like the previous books, it’s like another stroll through Turtle Bay with the gang when you flip through the pages of Will She Break. Alyssa-Ray has a way with her words that makes you feel like you’re home.
In this last book of the standalone but interconnected trilogy, we get to see more of what life in the bay has to unfold. Every character brings their own layers of complexity, so it’s no surprise when we reintroduce Emma and Blake.
Emma is a survivor of an abusive relationship with self-doubt and broken self-worth from an ongoing toxic relationship with her family, specifically her mom. Blake is a fun-loving guy who is secretly feeling the sand of control slipping through his fingers over his mom’s health and uncertain timeline. Despite it all, they find solace in each other and a bond unbreakable.
If you’re looking for a read to trauma bond that evokes all emotions at once, Will She Break is it.
Future readers, please be sure to consider the trigger warnings before reading.
In this last book of the standalone but interconnected trilogy, we get to see more of what life in the bay has to unfold. Every character brings their own layers of complexity, so it’s no surprise when we reintroduce Emma and Blake.
Emma is a survivor of an abusive relationship with self-doubt and broken self-worth from an ongoing toxic relationship with her family, specifically her mom. Blake is a fun-loving guy who is secretly feeling the sand of control slipping through his fingers over his mom’s health and uncertain timeline. Despite it all, they find solace in each other and a bond unbreakable.
If you’re looking for a read to trauma bond that evokes all emotions at once, Will She Break is it.
Future readers, please be sure to consider the trigger warnings before reading.
November 6, 2025
What can I say? First I have ARC read for Alyssa from the beginning when it all started and she has yet to disappoint, in fact she always goes one step further with her books. They keep you on edge, waiting and wanting more!
Will She Break with Emma and Blake was such an emotional ride. Not only did it focus on real life issues that many people face everyday, it almost makes you feel like you’re living in that moment with each person.
The Friendship that everyone has, which is how all the books tie in together and have their own stories is a friendship that is more like a family even more so to some of them as their own.
Emma and Blake have so many obstacles to overcome come in their lives and it leaves Emma questioning if she can actually really open up to Blake and love him and trust him enough to let him in. Can she? You’ll have to read to find out!
Alyssa you’ve done it again!
Will She Break with Emma and Blake was such an emotional ride. Not only did it focus on real life issues that many people face everyday, it almost makes you feel like you’re living in that moment with each person.
The Friendship that everyone has, which is how all the books tie in together and have their own stories is a friendship that is more like a family even more so to some of them as their own.
Emma and Blake have so many obstacles to overcome come in their lives and it leaves Emma questioning if she can actually really open up to Blake and love him and trust him enough to let him in. Can she? You’ll have to read to find out!
Alyssa you’ve done it again!
November 19, 2025
I received this book as an arc, thank you for giving me the opportunity to read it!!
This is Book 3 in an interconnected standalone. This follows Emma & Blake’s story, which happens at the same time Book 1 & 2 happen. Book 1 is Dellas story and book 2 is Callie’s story.
This book is very emotional, just a little warning, but oh so so good! It helps the author is a counselor because she touches on the hard subjects with grace and love. I love Emma’s story though. Even if you haven’t dealt with what she has, it’s soo relatable and easy to picture yourself in her shoes. Now Blake though, his patience with Emma is amazing. Waiting for her to be ready, being easy and calm, I mean even though there were times I did wanna slap him. Especially about 3/4 the way through. I really really wanted to slap some sense into Blake. I mean I get it but yea.
Anyway I definitely recommend this book/series. All the books are fantastic & so worth the read.
This is Book 3 in an interconnected standalone. This follows Emma & Blake’s story, which happens at the same time Book 1 & 2 happen. Book 1 is Dellas story and book 2 is Callie’s story.
This book is very emotional, just a little warning, but oh so so good! It helps the author is a counselor because she touches on the hard subjects with grace and love. I love Emma’s story though. Even if you haven’t dealt with what she has, it’s soo relatable and easy to picture yourself in her shoes. Now Blake though, his patience with Emma is amazing. Waiting for her to be ready, being easy and calm, I mean even though there were times I did wanna slap him. Especially about 3/4 the way through. I really really wanted to slap some sense into Blake. I mean I get it but yea.
Anyway I definitely recommend this book/series. All the books are fantastic & so worth the read.
November 18, 2025
✨I am in a serious book hangover. Wow! This is my second 6 star read. The way the Author was able to convey such deep raw emotions was just beautifully written. I knew from the first chapter this book was going to wreck me but in a good way.
✨I loved the way Blake and Emma were with one another. It was such a beautiful love story. There were definitely some characters in the book I wanted to throw my Kindle at! 😆
✨If you definitely don’t want to miss out on this book! What a fantastic end to this series.
✨FAVORITE QUOTES✨
“You deserve a gentleman, sweetheart. But if you keep teasing me, I’m going to be the farthest thing from one.”
“The comfort of holding her close quiets the raging monsters that normally won’t stop screaming in my head.”
“Love isn’t something that needs to be earned,”
✨I loved the way Blake and Emma were with one another. It was such a beautiful love story. There were definitely some characters in the book I wanted to throw my Kindle at! 😆
✨If you definitely don’t want to miss out on this book! What a fantastic end to this series.
✨FAVORITE QUOTES✨
“You deserve a gentleman, sweetheart. But if you keep teasing me, I’m going to be the farthest thing from one.”
“The comfort of holding her close quiets the raging monsters that normally won’t stop screaming in my head.”
“Love isn’t something that needs to be earned,”
October 30, 2025
I got this book as an advanced copy and this is my 100% honest review.
Emma & Blakes story put me on a wild roller coaster of emotions. I can personally relate to a lot of Emma's life and it hit really close to home. Blake and Emma both had a lot of demons they had to overcome so they could be their best selves for each other. I believe the things they faced made them realize how much they actually needed one another.
It was very powerful reading a book that touched on real life emotions and situations.
I love the bond that all of the friends have and how connected they are to each other. It always amazing when friends turn into family.
Everytime I read Alyssa-Rays books, I feel like I'm going back to visit family. Even through all of the trials and tribulations these characters face there's always some amazing heartwarming moments.
Alyssa-Ray tied in the end really well with her bonus chapter and I can't wait to read more from her.
Emma & Blakes story put me on a wild roller coaster of emotions. I can personally relate to a lot of Emma's life and it hit really close to home. Blake and Emma both had a lot of demons they had to overcome so they could be their best selves for each other. I believe the things they faced made them realize how much they actually needed one another.
It was very powerful reading a book that touched on real life emotions and situations.
I love the bond that all of the friends have and how connected they are to each other. It always amazing when friends turn into family.
Everytime I read Alyssa-Rays books, I feel like I'm going back to visit family. Even through all of the trials and tribulations these characters face there's always some amazing heartwarming moments.
Alyssa-Ray tied in the end really well with her bonus chapter and I can't wait to read more from her.
November 20, 2025
Emma & Blake - Thé struggles of Loving…
This is a wholesome romance that tug at your heart as much as it cuts. I laughed, cried and rooted for them to reach the finish line just to realize they weren’t there yet. The reality of how people struggle with trauma silently and alone is so well written.
I recommend reading book 1 & 2 of the series first if you want to know the other characters stories. But the books don’t follow a specific timeline, which means you can read them any way you please to
This is a wholesome romance that tug at your heart as much as it cuts. I laughed, cried and rooted for them to reach the finish line just to realize they weren’t there yet. The reality of how people struggle with trauma silently and alone is so well written.
I recommend reading book 1 & 2 of the series first if you want to know the other characters stories. But the books don’t follow a specific timeline, which means you can read them any way you please to
November 13, 2025
A really good continuation to a great series. I love books that get all in my feels and this one didn't disappoint.
Blake is great. Fun, outgoing and flirty BUT that's just the outer shell he let's everyone see.
Emma is such a pure hearted person but doesn't see/believe her own worth after some difficult times.
Together they're great if they let the other actually in.
End of chapter 24, make sure you have tissues on hand!
Blake is great. Fun, outgoing and flirty BUT that's just the outer shell he let's everyone see.
Emma is such a pure hearted person but doesn't see/believe her own worth after some difficult times.
Together they're great if they let the other actually in.
End of chapter 24, make sure you have tissues on hand!
November 6, 2025
I could not, I mean that literally, put this book down. I laughed, cried, rooted for and got angry with each character at different times. Blake is so sweet and sincere. And Emma...she climbed the list of relatable characters quickly. I could picture my family in place of hers when different things would go on with her mom. It was like damn girl, our Mama's were cut from the same cloth.
This series is amazing and relatable.
This series is amazing and relatable.
November 10, 2025
Why does this series insist on calling me out AND healing me???
Thank you for making me cry again, ma’am. 😆
Emma learning not to shrink herself…
Blake seeing through every “I’m okay” because he’s also breaking internally. The way he cares for his mom while trying to be strong for her and still love Emma in the way she needed most?
Yeah… I’m still in my feelings. ❤️🩹
Thank you for making me cry again, ma’am. 😆
Emma learning not to shrink herself…
Blake seeing through every “I’m okay” because he’s also breaking internally. The way he cares for his mom while trying to be strong for her and still love Emma in the way she needed most?
Yeah… I’m still in my feelings. ❤️🩹
November 13, 2025
This is a nice friend to lovers read. Blake has always been a player. Each summer he hooks up with someone different. Emma has never really been on his radar. Then she has some trouble and all he wants to do is be there for her. Emma has to decide if she can see him as something more or just the player he has always been.
November 10, 2025
I have loved being back with the gang.
This time to hear about Emma and Blake's relationship.
Just like the others I loved the storyline, everything flows really well. I couldn't put it down I just had to know what was going to happen.
I can't want to see what Alyssa-Ray writes next.
This time to hear about Emma and Blake's relationship.
Just like the others I loved the storyline, everything flows really well. I couldn't put it down I just had to know what was going to happen.
I can't want to see what Alyssa-Ray writes next.
November 1, 2025
I ate this up! It was a beautiful way to give us Emma and Blake’s story while managing a timeline with two other main couples and a ton of friends!
I cried and was hurting, I got my hea in the bonus scene. And the new chapter for the next book was so heart wrenching! Alyssa Ray knows how to make the real world fun and light and hurt all at the same time.
I cried and was hurting, I got my hea in the bonus scene. And the new chapter for the next book was so heart wrenching! Alyssa Ray knows how to make the real world fun and light and hurt all at the same time.
November 21, 2025
Alright, book lovers, let's talk about Will She Break. If you've ever wished for a friend who's as steadfast as a lighthouse on a stormy night, you're going to adore Blake.
Seriously, every single one of us needs a Blake in our lives
—because even Blake needs a Blake!
In this beautifully crafted story, we meet Emma Grayson, a warrior who's been through the wringer. The way Bouman portrays her anxiety and depression? Oh boy, talk about real talk. For those of us in the know, it's painfully relatable, yet heartwarming to see Emma reclaim her power and confidence, thanks to the kind of unwavering love that only someone like Blake can offer.
But hang on, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Blake's journey is equally layered, taking care of his mother through a battle with rare cancer that shakes his world. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking we have to carry the weight of the world alone, and seeing Blake grapple with that burden was both heartbreaking and profoundly real.
This isn't just a story of hidden pain and secrets-it's about a fierce fight to break through the darkness. Bouman expertly navigates themes of grief and the courage it takes to let others in. Emma and Blake's journey showcases that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is allow someone to love you while you're healing.
Trust me, You'll want to binge this emotional rollercoaster!
Seriously, every single one of us needs a Blake in our lives
—because even Blake needs a Blake!
In this beautifully crafted story, we meet Emma Grayson, a warrior who's been through the wringer. The way Bouman portrays her anxiety and depression? Oh boy, talk about real talk. For those of us in the know, it's painfully relatable, yet heartwarming to see Emma reclaim her power and confidence, thanks to the kind of unwavering love that only someone like Blake can offer.
But hang on, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Blake's journey is equally layered, taking care of his mother through a battle with rare cancer that shakes his world. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking we have to carry the weight of the world alone, and seeing Blake grapple with that burden was both heartbreaking and profoundly real.
This isn't just a story of hidden pain and secrets-it's about a fierce fight to break through the darkness. Bouman expertly navigates themes of grief and the courage it takes to let others in. Emma and Blake's journey showcases that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is allow someone to love you while you're healing.
Trust me, You'll want to binge this emotional rollercoaster!
November 26, 2025
Will She Break will shatter your heart to pieces but no worries, Alyssa will repair it. Alyssa-Ray has a way of writing her characters to make them feel like family. When they hurt, you hurt. If they want revenge, you're asking who's car are we taking. This story is healing each other when you feel like there is nothing left. The whole series has been amazing and should definitely be read. Have some tissues and a best friend on speed dial. Happy Reading Everyone!
November 10, 2025
The perfect conclusion to the Will of the Heart series. It’s full of emotion and love and friendship and heartbreak. Alyssa-Ray grabs you and pulls you in for the full ride.
November 22, 2025
I loved it I loved how it just continues with the characters from last book and brings you back with the other characters and I love Emma and Blake I love their story highly recommend
December 10, 2025
I enjoyed this book
December 23, 2025
To start, I am so unpreparedly sad that this trilogy is complete. But, with that said, I absolutely loved this series. While you could possibly read them individually and still understand each relationship, I definitely recommend reading them in order.
Emma and Blake’s story had me in awe and sadness, happiness and giggles, and then cheering by the end. Emma has been through so much and still manages to be a total powerhouse of a human! Blake is such a golden retriever man when it comes to Emma. I could read their banter ALL DAY LONG.
The amount of representation into mental health due to trauma, caregiver role strain, and various other topics is amazing. It makes the story that much more realistic feeling and the characters more relatable. I also still love that she has written the last two books with indicators that allow the reader to opt out of the explicit spicy scenes and still not miss the point of the book (basically allows the reader a fade out scenario). Now I read the whole damn thing and the spice is worth it but I think having the option just gives an edge to her books that I'm not sure anyone else has.
I would normally give my "if you like xyz, then you'll love this book" recommendations at this point but instead I'll say this: Just go read it. It is 100,000% worth it.
My very first ARC copy to be approved for was book one of this series: Will She Run. This is a bittersweet moment for me because having one of her books be my intro to the ARC world and completing the series brings me happiness regardless of how sad I am that I have now read through all 3 books and cannot experience them for the first time again.
I would like to thank Alyssa-Ray Bouman for this ARC opportunity!
“It’s funny, isn’t it? How the people closest to you leave little fingerprints all over your life.”
Emma and Blake’s story had me in awe and sadness, happiness and giggles, and then cheering by the end. Emma has been through so much and still manages to be a total powerhouse of a human! Blake is such a golden retriever man when it comes to Emma. I could read their banter ALL DAY LONG.
The amount of representation into mental health due to trauma, caregiver role strain, and various other topics is amazing. It makes the story that much more realistic feeling and the characters more relatable. I also still love that she has written the last two books with indicators that allow the reader to opt out of the explicit spicy scenes and still not miss the point of the book (basically allows the reader a fade out scenario). Now I read the whole damn thing and the spice is worth it but I think having the option just gives an edge to her books that I'm not sure anyone else has.
I would normally give my "if you like xyz, then you'll love this book" recommendations at this point but instead I'll say this: Just go read it. It is 100,000% worth it.
My very first ARC copy to be approved for was book one of this series: Will She Run. This is a bittersweet moment for me because having one of her books be my intro to the ARC world and completing the series brings me happiness regardless of how sad I am that I have now read through all 3 books and cannot experience them for the first time again.
I would like to thank Alyssa-Ray Bouman for this ARC opportunity!
November 9, 2025
WARNING THIS REIVEW IS KIND OF LONG LOL
I just finished Will She Break by Alyssa-Ray Bouman (the final book in the Will of the Heart series!) and I am absolutely wrecked—in the best way possible. I swear, this book is now etched onto my soul. I’m not okay that this series is over! The whole trilogy is top-tier, but somehow, Alyssa-Ray made this one my new absolute favorite. I pulled an all-nighter just to finish it because I literally could not put it down! Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster, because I went from ugly-crying to snorting-water-out-my-nose laughing in the span of three pages. (I think my family thought something was wrong with me lol)
I am completely obsessed with the main couple, Emma and Blake—I ship them so hard! These characters feel like family because the author writes them with such amazing depth. Emma is the ultimate overthinker (which is very much like me!), and I just wanted to jump into the book and give her the biggest hug. Blake is a total golden retriever of a man, but he's dealing with some heavy emotional stuff related to his mother's. His struggle to "be strong" and bottle up his pain hit me right in the feels (which is another very relatable thing that I have) and made their journey so incredibly honest and relatable.
Beyond the swoon-worthy romance, this book is seriously impressive. Alyssa-Ray is a genius for the way she seamlessly ties together the events from the previous books (Will She Run and Will She Choose). It also tackles important topics like mental health, trauma healing, and the caregiver experience, making the whole story feel authentic and powerful. The romance is a beautiful slow burn, and the chemistry delivers! Plus, she’s a queen for including spice-level warnings so non-spice lovers can skip the scenes and still not miss the story's emotional core. (But seriously, the spicy parts are worth it).
If you love small-town romance, friends-to-lovers, a deeply emotional hurt/comfort story, and a book that will leave a genuine imprint on your heart, you need to start this series. This final installment is a stunning conclusion, and I recommend it 100,000%!
I just finished Will She Break by Alyssa-Ray Bouman (the final book in the Will of the Heart series!) and I am absolutely wrecked—in the best way possible. I swear, this book is now etched onto my soul. I’m not okay that this series is over! The whole trilogy is top-tier, but somehow, Alyssa-Ray made this one my new absolute favorite. I pulled an all-nighter just to finish it because I literally could not put it down! Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster, because I went from ugly-crying to snorting-water-out-my-nose laughing in the span of three pages. (I think my family thought something was wrong with me lol)
I am completely obsessed with the main couple, Emma and Blake—I ship them so hard! These characters feel like family because the author writes them with such amazing depth. Emma is the ultimate overthinker (which is very much like me!), and I just wanted to jump into the book and give her the biggest hug. Blake is a total golden retriever of a man, but he's dealing with some heavy emotional stuff related to his mother's. His struggle to "be strong" and bottle up his pain hit me right in the feels (which is another very relatable thing that I have) and made their journey so incredibly honest and relatable.
Beyond the swoon-worthy romance, this book is seriously impressive. Alyssa-Ray is a genius for the way she seamlessly ties together the events from the previous books (Will She Run and Will She Choose). It also tackles important topics like mental health, trauma healing, and the caregiver experience, making the whole story feel authentic and powerful. The romance is a beautiful slow burn, and the chemistry delivers! Plus, she’s a queen for including spice-level warnings so non-spice lovers can skip the scenes and still not miss the story's emotional core. (But seriously, the spicy parts are worth it).
If you love small-town romance, friends-to-lovers, a deeply emotional hurt/comfort story, and a book that will leave a genuine imprint on your heart, you need to start this series. This final installment is a stunning conclusion, and I recommend it 100,000%!
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