A Deep Dive into Colleen Hoover's World

Discover Colleen Hoover's most captivating novels, from heart-wrenching romance to gripping drama. Find out which books to start with, their ideal reading order, and why her stories have touched millions. Dive into the world of Hoover's bestselling works today!

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Are you ready to dive into the emotionally charged, addictive world of Colleen Hoover’s books but don’t know where to start? Whether you're a romance lover, drama addict, or just seeking an unforgettable read, Colleen Hoover has something for everyone. Let’s explore some of her best novels, help you pick the perfect one to begin with, and guide you through the ideal reading order.

Who is Colleen Hoover?

If you're not familiar with Colleen Hoover (or CoHo, as her fans lovingly call her), she's an author who excels at crafting stories that tug on your heartstrings, leaving you emotional and deeply invested in her characters. Hoover’s books often blend romance with heavy themes like trauma, family, and self-discovery, making them a unique mix of raw emotion and passion.

Where to Start with Colleen Hoover's Books?

1. "It Ends with Us" (2016)

This is the book that skyrocketed Hoover into the limelight. A poignant and powerful story about love, resilience, and difficult decisions, "It Ends with Us" is an emotional rollercoaster that many consider her best work. It tackles sensitive subjects like domestic abuse while maintaining a message of hope. If you're new to Hoover, this book is an excellent starting point, setting the tone for the emotional depth you can expect in her novels. 

2. "It Starts with Us" (2022)

It Starts with Us is the highly anticipated sequel to It Ends with Us, and it picks up right where the first book left off. The story focuses on Lily and Atlas, giving readers the satisfying continuation of their love story. After everything Lily has been through in It Ends with Us, this book offers a sense of hope, healing, and second chances.

While It Starts with Us is still emotional, it’s less heart-wrenching than the first book. Instead, it gives readers the closure and happiness they’ve been hoping for, making it an uplifting read compared to the intensity of It Ends with Us.

3. "Verity" (2018)

If you're looking for something darker and more suspenseful, "Verity" is a psychological thriller, that’s unlike most of Hoover’s romance-driven books. The story revolves around "Lowen", a struggling writer, who uncovers disturbing truths while working on a famous author’s biography. With its eerie twists, this book is perfect for readers who enjoy mysteries and psychological mind games. It’s a departure from her typical love stories, so it’s best for readers who prefer a darker, more intense narrative.

4. "Ugly Love" (2014)

For readers who prefer a steamy, intense romance, "Ugly Love" is a solid pick. This book focuses on the complex relationship between Tate and Miles, where passion is off the charts, but emotions are kept tightly bottled up. It’s a story about overcoming the past and finding love again. Start here if you’re in the mood for something romantic yet heart-wrenching.

5. "Reminders of Him" (2022)

One of Hoover’s more recent novels, "Reminders of Him" tells the heart-wrenching story of a woman who, after serving time in prison, returns to her hometown to reconnect with her young daughter. Full of emotional intensity, this book is a story of redemption, love, and forgiveness. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy deep emotional journeys.

6. "November 9" (2015)

"November 9" follows the story of Fallon and Ben, who meet on the same date every year. Their unique relationship unfolds over time, with moments of love, heartbreak, and discovery. This one is ideal if you enjoy unconventional love stories with an element of fate and mystery.

7. "All Your Perfects" (2018)

This deeply emotional novel dives into the struggles of marriage, focusing on Quinn and Graham as they navigate the challenges that threaten their relationship. It’s an intense, raw story that’s especially relatable for readers dealing with the complexities of long-term relationships. 

More Colleen Hoover Books You’ll Love

If you’re craving more after diving into her most popular works, here are six other Colleen Hoover books worth checking out:

1. "Confess" (2015) – A blend of romance and art, where secrets and confessions shape the characters' lives.

2. "Regretting You" (2019) – A powerful story about a mother-daughter duo navigating grief, loss, and love.

3. "Heart Bones" (2020) – A touching, lighter romance with a coming-of-age vibe, set during a transformative summer.

4. "Maybe Someday" (2014) – Romance and music collide in this heartfelt novel about songwriting, love, and tough decisions.

5. "Without Merit" (2017) – A quirky yet emotional novel that dives into family secrets and mental health struggles.

6. "Finding Cinderella" (2014) – A short, romantic novella connected to the Hopeless series, but perfect as a standalone.

How to Read Colleen Hoover's Books: Ideal Reading Order

Hoover’s books can be read in nearly any order, but some readers prefer to start with standalone novels and then dive into her series or connected books. Here’s a simple reading guide:

Standalone Novels:

• "It Ends with Us" (Highly recommended as the first book)
• "It Starts with US" (A perfect sequel of "It Ends with Us")
  
• "Ugly Love"
• "Verity"
• "November 9"
• "Reminders of Him" (2022) – A more recent, heartwarming yet emotional book about grief, forgiveness, and second chances.

Series:

• "Slammed" Series: For a taste of her earlier work, this series is more lighthearted but still impactful. Begin with "Slammed" (2012), followed by "Point of Retreat" (2012), and "This Girl" (2013).
• "Hopeless" Series: If you want a deeper dive into heavy emotions and drama, this series, starting with "Hopeless" (2012), is worth exploring. It touches on trauma, healing, and young love.

Why Colleen Hoover's Books Resonate

One of the reasons Hoover’s books are so beloved is her ability to create multi-dimensional characters. They’re flawed, real, and often face difficult circumstances that resonate with readers on a personal level. Hoover doesn’t shy away from hard topics like abuse, grief, or mental health, but she weaves these elements into her stories in ways that feel authentic and thought-provoking.

Her writing is direct and emotional, making it easy to get lost in her books. And while her novels often include romance, it’s the deep, emotional journeys of the characters that stand out.

Quick Tips to Get the Most from Hoover's Books

• Tissues, lots of them! Hoover’s stories often pull at the heartstrings, so be prepared for an emotional journey.
• Audiobook versions are worth checking out if you prefer listening. The narrators often do an excellent job of capturing the emotional intensity of the characters.
• Join the fandom on social media. There are tons of book clubs and fan groups that actively discuss Colleen Hoover’s works, and these communities can enhance your reading experience with insights, discussions, and fan theories.

In Conclusion: Where Should You Start?

If you want to experience the best of Colleen Hoover, begin with "It Ends with Us" for its emotional depth and important themes. Then, move on to "Ugly Love" if you want more romance or "Verity" if you're in the mood for a thrilling psychological twist. Regardless of where you start, Hoover’s books will leave you thinking about the characters long after you’ve turned the last page.

So, grab one of her books, and prepare for an emotional rollercoaster you won’t soon forget.