It Starts with Us

It Starts with Us book cover

Book (2022)

by Colleen Hoover

The long-anticipated sequel to multi-million-copy bestseller It Ends with Us that tells Atlas's side of the story from #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of the global phenomenon VERITY, a major motion picture starring Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson.

'No one delivers an emotional read like Colleen Hoover' ANNA TODD

Lily and her ex-husband, Ryle, have just settled into a civil co-parenting rhythm when she suddenly bumps into her first love, Atlas, again. After nearly two years separated, she is elated that for once, time is on their side, and she immediately says yes when Atlas asks her on a date.

But her excitement is quickly hampered by the knowledge that, though they are no longer married, Ryle is still very much a part of her life—and Atlas Corrigan is the one man he will hate being in his ex-wife and daughter’s life.

Switching between the perspectives of Lily and Atlas, It Starts with Us picks up right where the epilogue for It Ends with Us left off.

Experience the romantic and satisfying conclusion to Colleen Hoover's powerful global bestselling novel.
Fiction / General
Fiction / Romance / General
Fiction / Romance / Contemporary
Fiction / Romance / New Adult
Fiction / Romance / Medical
Fiction / Friendship
Social Science / Poverty & Homelessness
Family & Relationships / Abuse / General
400 pages
Jump to family guidance

Family guidance

Ages 17+

This narrative deals with mature themes including the complexities of post-divorce dynamics, domestic trauma, and adult romantic relationships. The emotional maturity required to navigate these heavy subject matters makes it unsuitable for younger audiences.

Every child is different. Use this guide alongside what you know about yours.

What to know before you start

Content details to help you decide what fits your child.

Sex & Nudity

3/5

The story features romantic relationships and sexual intimacy between adult characters. While there is no explicit graphic content, the themes are mature and intended for an adult audience.

Violence & Gore

1/5

The book deals with the aftermath of past domestic abuse, though there is no new graphic physical violence depicted in this sequel. The focus remains on the psychological impact of previous encounters.

Profanity

3/5

The dialogue includes moderate profanity, such as f*ck (frequently used in emotional outbursts), sh*t, and d*mn, consistent with contemporary adult fiction.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

2/5

Characters are occasionally shown consuming alcohol in social settings or during dinner dates. These scenes are secondary to the narrative and do not involve substance abuse.

Frightening Scenes

3/5

The primary tension stems from the emotional strain of navigating a high-conflict co-parenting situation with an abusive ex-partner. The intensity is psychological rather than scary or horror-based.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This story is for mature readers who enjoy exploring deep feelings, complicated adult relationships, and the process of moving on after life gets very difficult.

Content Warnings

Domestic abuse themes
Interpersonal conflict

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The story revolves around the tension between a co-parenting couple and the lingering impact of a former partner's volatility. It focuses on the emotional aftermath of abusive dynamics rather than explicit action.

What Kids Can Learn

Readers can gain perspective on the necessity of maintaining personal integrity and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive, safe individuals.

Key Topics Discussed

Romantic relationships
Co-parenting dynamics
Emotional recovery

Why Parents Might Like It

The narrative provides a character-driven look at personal growth and the realistic challenges of building a new life after leaving an unhealthy relationship.

Positives & learning

Positive messages

4/5

The narrative emphasizes the importance of healing after trauma, the value of setting firm boundaries, and the strength found in prioritizing personal safety and parental responsibility.

Role models

4/5

Characters demonstrate significant growth by choosing self-respect over volatile relationships, modeling the process of healing and moving forward after difficult life experiences.

Representation

2/5

No diverse representation indicated in available information.

Learning

2/5

The work offers insights into complex social-emotional navigation and the long-term impact of personal choices in challenging relationship dynamics.

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