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3.9 AVERAGE
3.9 AVERAGE
im sorry but the dialogue was so cringe and for what
challenging
emotional
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
Colleen Hoover successfully draws the reader into Lily’s inner world, making us not only empathize with her, but also confront difficult truths about love, memory, and survival. Hoover deserves credit for not romanticizing the cycle of abuse. From early signs to escalating physical harm, readers are able to recognize the red flags . The novel powerfully illustrates that leaving an abusive partner is never simple, even for strong, educated, and loving people. Lily’s struggle is nuanced and realistic: she is not "weak" for staying, nor "strong" for leaving, she is a human being navigating trauma, love, fear . One of the novel’s most compelling literary devices is the use of flashbacks through Lily’s letters to Ellen DeGeneres. These letters add a dual timeline that helps us contrast the innocence of Lily’s past with the painful, layered complexity of her present.
That said, some aspects fall short. The book misses an opportunity to explore what real, trauma-informed therapy and accountability could look like. Instead, his backstory is only hinted at, and his arc feels too soft, almost like an excuse. Another major omission is the complete absence of any discussion around abortion. In a novel meant to break generational cycles of violence, this silence speaks volumes and reinforces stigma around reproductive rights.
Despite these flaws, It Ends With Us remains a valuable and emotional read. It opens necessary conversations about abuse, trauma, and the strength it takes to choose a different path.
Spoiler
in Ryle's behaviour. His jealousy, controlling tendencies, and temper are all carefully foreshadowedSpoiler
, and motherhoodSpoiler
They are not only nostalgic but also build the emotional foundation that makes Atlas’s reappearance meaningful and believable.That said, some aspects fall short.
Spoiler
Ryle says he’s been in therapy since childhood, yet his violent behavior is never seriously addressed.Spoiler
After being assaulted by Ryle, Lily learns she’s pregnant, but the option of ending the pregnancy is never even mentioned. That silence is concerning. No woman, especially one in Lily’s situation, should be morally or narratively pressured into carrying the child of her abuser. Ignoring abortion as a valid choice undermines Lily’s agency and weakens the story’s empowering message.Despite these flaws, It Ends With Us remains a valuable and emotional read. It opens necessary conversations about abuse, trauma, and the strength it takes to choose a different path.
emotional
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
medium-paced
This book was amazing <3. This is the third Colleen Hoover book I've read, and I've loved all of them. The story really intruiged me, it deals with some heavy topics, but somehow it's still a pretty light read. Definitely recommend this book!
emotional
funny
hopeful
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
DNF - a suicidal intro followed by a romance with a guy who likes to beat up furniture.