A review by moraina
It Ends with Us, by Colleen Hoover
dark
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
I have complicated feelings towards this book. I do appreciate the content and think the message is important.
That being said, I unfortunately can’t say I’m a big fan of her writing style. Much of it made me cringe and I just found it repetitive. It honestly read a bit like fanfiction at some parts.
Overall, I think this can be a good read with important takeaways for the reader, and may even work for a young adult audience that is mature and supervised. I just wouldn’t say it’s a literary masterpiece.
Spoiler
I particularly think it’s important that Colleen Hoover points out how quick outsiders are to blame victims of domestic violence. I like that she really delves into how complicated it is to decide to leave a partner like that, when their good moments are so good. I also appreciate that she wrote this for her mother and was a witness to that type of behavior firsthand, while also having her own complicated relationship with her father.That being said, I unfortunately can’t say I’m a big fan of her writing style. Much of it made me cringe and I just found it repetitive. It honestly read a bit like fanfiction at some parts.
Spoiler
Perhaps the biggest thing that drove me crazy is the obsession with Atlas, I understood that Lily never got closure and struggled with it, but it felt inappropriate to me. Ryle’s actions were entirely inexcusable, but I can’t say I blame him for being upset. I was also bothered by the implausibility of her journal entries, as 90% of most 16-year-olds I know are not that introspective.Overall, I think this can be a good read with important takeaways for the reader, and may even work for a young adult audience that is mature and supervised. I just wouldn’t say it’s a literary masterpiece.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Child death, Gaslighting, Injury/injury detail, Pregnancy, Toxic relationship, and Rape
Minor: Suicide, Infertility, Medical content, and Panic attacks/disorders
Major trigger warnings. Absolutely would not read if you’re sensitive to these topics.