“It Ends With Us“ and “It Starts With Us” are part of a duology by Colleen Hoover, but they focus on different aspects of the characters’ journeys. While “It Ends With Us“ was a best-seller and is considered one of Hoover’s most powerful novels, here’s how the two books compare:
Plot Focus:
- “It Ends With Us“ (the first book) deals with Lily Bloom’s tumultuous relationship with Ryle, which includes themes of domestic violence and the difficult decisions she must make to break the cycle of abuse. It’s emotional, raw, and highlights the complexity of abusive relationships.
- “It Starts With Us” (the sequel) picks up where the first book left off but shifts the focus to Lily’s healing and her relationship with her first love, Atlas. It provides more closure on her journey to move forward and find peace after the trauma.
Tone:
- “It Ends With Us“ is heavier and more intense, dealing with painful and serious topics that resonated with many readers, which contributed to its best-seller status.
- “It Starts With Us” is generally lighter in tone, focusing more on personal growth, healing, and second chances.
Reader Impact:
- “It Ends With Us“ made a massive emotional impact on readers, making it one of Hoover’s most well-received books due to its deep exploration of difficult, real-life issues.
- “It Starts With Us” was highly anticipated because of the popularity of the first book, but it’s seen more as a satisfying conclusion to Lily’s story rather than a standalone impactful novel.
In comparison, “It Ends With Us“ may be regarded as more memorable and emotionally gripping, while “It Starts With Us” gives readers the closure they want for Lily and Atlas.