Summary:
“It Starts with Us” is a powerful novel by Colleen Hoover that explores the cyclical patterns of abuse and the impact of making difficult choices in relationships.
Book Genre:
Contemporary Romance/Fiction
Main Topic of the Book:
The main topic of the book is the complexities of love, loss, and the consequences of staying in a toxic relationship.
Key Ideas:
- The impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships
- The importance of setting boundaries and standing up for oneself
- The strength and resilience of the human spirit
- The power of forgiveness and self-love
Main Parts of the Book and Short Summary:
- Part One: The first part of the book introduces us to the main character, Lily Bloom, as she reminisces about her childhood and early adulthood. She meets a charming neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid, and they begin a passionate and seemingly perfect relationship.
- Part Two: Lily’s past resurfaces in the form of her first love, Atlas Corrigan, who seeks her out after being estranged for over a decade. As Lily’s relationship with Ryle becomes more intense and at times, volatile, she must confront her past and make tough decisions about her present.
- Part Three: In the final part of the book, Lily must choose between staying with Ryle and facing a potential future of abuse or leaving him and risking losing the life she has built with him. She also learns about secrets from her mother’s past that shed light on her own experiences.
Key Takeaways:
- Love is not always enough to sustain a healthy relationship.
- It takes strength and courage to break the cycle of abuse and make difficult choices in relationships.
- Forgiveness, both for oneself and others, is crucial for moving forward and finding true happiness.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
Colleen Hoover is a renowned New York Times bestselling author with over 20 published books. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her writing, including a Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance in 2016. Hoover’s writing often deals with difficult and emotional topics, drawing from her own experiences and those of her readers.
Target Audience:
This book is targeted towards adults, particularly those who enjoy contemporary romance and are interested in exploring themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
“It Starts with Us” was published by Atria Books and was first released on August 2, 2016.