Overview: “It Starts with Us” is a much-anticipated sequel to Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel “It Ends with Us.” In this enthralling sequel, Hoover tells the story from the perspective of fan-favorite character Atlas, revealing his side of the story and providing insight into what comes next. First published on October 18, 2022, this romance novel spans 323 pages and has quickly garnered attention from readers around the world.
Plot: The novel takes readers back into the world of Lily and her first love, Atlas, as they unexpectedly cross paths after nearly two years apart. With Lily and her ex-husband, Ryle, having settled into a civil co-parenting arrangement, Lily’s sudden reconnection with Atlas brings both joy and challenges. The spark between them remains, but the presence of Ryle, who is still a significant part of Lily’s life, complicates matters. Hoover expertly switches between the perspectives of Lily and Atlas, revealing more about Atlas’s past and following Lily as she navigates a second chance at true love amidst the complexities of a jealous ex-husband.
Writing Style: Hoover’s writing style in “It Starts with Us” is both poignant and compelling. The alternating perspectives allow readers to delve into the inner thoughts and emotions of both main characters, creating a deeper connection with the narrative. Hoover’s portrayal of the complexities of love, relationships, and moving forward in the face of past emotions is both realistic and heart-wrenching. The story is filled with moments that tug at the heartstrings and characters that resonate with readers.
Themes: The novel explores themes of love, second chances, and the challenges of navigating relationships with past loves still lingering in the background. It delves into the intricacies of co-parenting and the emotional turmoil that can come with rekindling a romance when other parties are involved. The story underscores the importance of embracing opportunities for true love and the courage it takes to move forward despite the challenges.
Reception: “It Starts with Us” has already attracted a significant readership, with over 61,000 people currently reading and an impressive 620,000 expressing interest in reading it. Fans of the first novel, “It Ends with Us,” have eagerly awaited this sequel, and the narrative delivers by providing deeper insights into the characters and continuing the story right where the epilogue of the previous novel left off.
Conclusion: “It Starts with Us” is a beautifully written sequel that delves deeper into the lives of beloved characters Lily and Atlas. Hoover’s skillful storytelling, emotional depth, and alternating perspectives make this a highly satisfying read for fans of the first novel and newcomers alike. The exploration of love, second chances, and the complexities of relationships makes this novel a heartwarming and relatable read for anyone who enjoys romance and contemporary fiction.
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars