Colleen Hoover Best Books In Order
Alright, gather 'round, fellow bookworms! Let's talk about Colleen Hoover, or as I affectionately call her, the Queen of Emotional Rollercoasters. You know, the author who can make you sob hysterically one minute and then swoon like a teenager the next? Yeah, that Colleen Hoover.
Trying to figure out where to start with her books is like trying to decide which flavor of ice cream you want when they all look ridiculously delicious. Overwhelmed? Don't worry, I’ve got your back! I’m going to guide you through her best books, in a way that’s hopefully less confusing than trying to assemble IKEA furniture after three glasses of wine.
Where to Start: The Gateway Books
If you're a Hoover newbie, you need a gateway book. Something that eases you into her writing style without throwing you headfirst into the deep end of emotional turmoil. Think of it as literary foreplay (too much?).
Must Read
Hopeless (2012): This is like the OG Hoover experience for many. It's got a plot twist that will make you gasp so loudly your neighbors will think you're watching a particularly dramatic soap opera. Seriously, prepare yourself. It's a coming-of-age story with a hefty dose of secrets and emotional baggage. If you like your romance with a side of mystery, this is your jam.
Slammed (2012): This one is a sweet, more angsty story about loss, love, and the healing power of slam poetry. Yes, slam poetry! Don't let that scare you off. It’s actually pretty cool and adds a unique flavor to the story. Fair warning: you might find yourself writing terrible poetry afterward. You have been warned.
The Big Guns: The Books Everyone Raves About
Now that you've dipped your toes in, it's time to dive into the books that have made Colleen Hoover a household name (at least in households full of readers with tissues on standby).
It Ends With Us (2016): Okay, brace yourself. This book. THIS. BOOK. Prepare for a whirlwind of emotions. It tackles heavy themes like domestic violence, but it does so with nuance and sensitivity. It Ends With Us is probably her most popular novel. If you only read one Colleen Hoover book, many would say it should be this one. Be prepared to feel all the feels and maybe question some of your life choices. Just kidding… mostly.
Verity (2018): Want something darker? More twisted? This one is a psychological thriller that will keep you up at night. A struggling writer gets a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to finish the bestselling series of an injured author, Verity Crawford. But then she finds Verity's autobiography… and things get WEIRD. Like, "lock the doors and check under the bed" weird. Don’t read this before bed. Seriously.
Ugly Love (2014): This book is about love, loss, and the complications of relationships. It will pull at your heartstrings and probably make you cry. Like, ugly cry. Hence the name. But in a good way! It's a messy, real, and ultimately hopeful story.
Deeper Cuts: For the Dedicated Hoover Fan
So you've devoured the classics and you're hungry for more? You're officially a Hooverholic. Welcome to the club! Here are some of her other books that are worth checking out.
November 9 (2015): A novelist meets his muse… only once a year, on November 9th. Sounds romantic, right? Well, it is. But it's also complicated and full of secrets. Because what's a Colleen Hoover book without a little bit of angst?
Regretting You (2019): This one is about a mother and daughter who are both dealing with heartbreak and betrayal. It’s a story about forgiveness, family, and finding your own way. Get your tissues ready!
Layla (2020): Let's throw in a paranormal romance into the mix, shall we? This book is about a woman who falls in love with a musician, but their relationship takes a dark turn after a shocking incident. Prepare for ghosts, mysteries, and some seriously steamy scenes. Spooky and sexy? Yes, please!
The Order Matters (Kinda)
Does the order really matter? Eh, not really. But starting with something lighter like Hopeless or Slammed might be a good idea. Jumping straight into Verity might be a bit intense for a newbie. Think of it like working your way up from mild salsa to ghost peppers. Unless you’re into that kind of thing, then go wild!
Ultimately, the best Colleen Hoover book for you is the one that grabs your attention and pulls you in. So go forth, brave reader, and get ready to be emotionally wrecked (in the best way possible, of course!). Happy reading!