Author: Colleen Hoover

“It Starts With Us” by Colleen Hoover is a sequel to her popular novel “It Ends With Us.” The story picks up where the first book left off, focusing on the lives of Lily Kincaid and Atlas Corrigan as they navigate their rekindled relationship amidst past traumas and present challenges.

Summary

The novel alternates between the perspectives of Lily and Atlas. Lily, now divorced from her abusive ex-husband Ryle, is busy managing her flower shop and raising her daughter, Emerson. Atlas, a successful chef, is dealing with vandalism at his restaurant and the sudden appearance of his estranged mother and a younger brother he never knew he had.

As Lily and Atlas reconnect, they face numerous obstacles, including Ryle’s jealousy and anger. Their relationship is tested by these external pressures, but they find solace in each other’s company and the shared memories of their past. The story delves into themes of love, resilience, and the importance of non-violent conflict resolution¹².

Reviews

The reception of “It Starts With Us” has been generally positive. Readers appreciate the depth of the characters and the emotional journey they undergo. The novel is praised for its sensitive handling of difficult topics like domestic abuse and single parenthood, while also providing a hopeful narrative about second chances and personal growth².

Some reviews highlight the book’s ability to balance heavy themes with moments of warmth and humor. However, a few critics feel that the plot can be predictable at times and that the drama might be overdone for some tastes³.

Overall, “It Starts With Us” is seen as a compelling continuation of Lily and Atlas’s story, offering a satisfying blend of romance, drama, and emotional healing.

Source:
(1) It Starts With Us: Full Book Summary | SparkNotes. https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/it-starts-with-us/summary/.
(2) It Starts With Us Summary, Review, Themes, Quotes and Characters. https://booksthatslay.com/it-starts-with-us-summary/.
(3) It Starts With Us Summary and Book Review by Bookvibe Staff. https://bookvibe.com/it-starts-with-us-summary-and-book-review/.
(4) goodreads.com. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60393672-it-starts-with-us.