Universal Bloggers
t Starts With Us, the highly anticipated sequel to Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel It Ends With Us, takes readers on an emotional journey of love, healing, and second chances. Released in 2022, this novel delves deeper into the lives of Lily Bloom and Atlas Corrigan, offering a heartfelt exploration of their love story while addressing themes of resilience and self-discovery.
Plot Summary
The story picks up where It Ends With Us leaves off. Lily Bloom, a single mother, is navigating life after her tumultuous relationship with Ryle Kincaid. Though she has chosen to prioritize her and her daughter Emerson’s safety, the lingering complexities of co-parenting with Ryle remain a challenge.
Enter Atlas Corrigan, Lily’s first love, whose reappearance reignites the spark they once shared. As they reconnect, It Starts With Us shifts between Lily’s and Atlas’s perspectives, allowing readers to see the depth of their connection and the challenges they must overcome. Atlas, dealing with his own past and familial struggles, brings tenderness and support into Lily’s life. Together, they work through the hurdles of starting anew while maintaining boundaries with Ryle.
Themes Explored
- Love and Second Chances
At its core, the novel is about rediscovering love after heartbreak. Lily and Atlas’s story highlights the importance of timing, trust, and vulnerability in building a healthy relationship. - Healing and Growth
It Starts With Us focuses on Lily’s journey to heal from the trauma of her past and embrace a future free of fear. Her resilience serves as an empowering message for readers. - Family and Forgiveness
The novel explores the complexities of family dynamics, especially through Atlas’s relationship with his estranged mother and younger brother. It underscores the importance of forgiveness while setting boundaries for self-preservation. - Strength in Motherhood
Lily’s role as a mother is a central theme. Her determination to create a safe and loving environment for her daughter drives many of her decisions, reflecting the sacrifices and strength inherent in motherhood.
Character Development
- Lily Bloom: Lily’s character evolves beautifully in this sequel. She’s no longer just surviving—she’s thriving, rediscovering her worth and learning to trust love again.
- Atlas Corrigan: Atlas’s perspective offers insight into his struggles and his unwavering devotion to Lily. He’s the epitome of patience and kindness, making him an ideal partner for Lily.
- Ryle Kincaid: While Ryle remains a complicated character, his presence serves as a reminder of the challenges of moving on from toxic relationships while co-parenting effectively.
Colleen Hoover’s Writing Style
Colleen Hoover’s signature blend of heartfelt emotion and relatable storytelling shines in It Starts With Us. By alternating between Lily’s and Atlas’s points of view, she provides readers with a deeper understanding of their emotions and motivations. Her ability to tackle difficult topics like domestic abuse and trauma with sensitivity and authenticity resonates strongly, making the novel both engaging and impactful.
Reception and Impact
Fans of It Ends With Us eagerly embraced It Starts With Us, celebrating its hopeful tone and satisfying resolution to Lily and Atlas’s love story. The novel has been praised for addressing the healing process after abuse and the importance of choosing love that uplifts and supports.
Conclusion
It Starts With Us is a poignant, uplifting sequel that reminds readers of the power of love, resilience, and second chances. Colleen Hoover masterfully balances emotional depth with moments of joy, making this a must-read for fans of contemporary romance and stories of personal growth. Whether you’re revisiting Lily and Atlas or discovering their story for the first time, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
