Colleen Hoover is one of the most popular romance authors today, beloved for writing emotional stories that pull at readers’ heartstrings. With complex characters and twisty plots full of drama, Colleen Hoover’s books ranked at the top of the bestseller charts repeatedly.
But with over 20 published novels and novellas to her name so far, even diehard fans might wonder – what are the best Colleen Hoover books to read first? This list will count down the 10 highest-rated must-read books that also I have read and loved.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Colleen Hoover’s Best Books
- ‘It Ends with Us’: A powerful story of love and resilience.
- ‘Ugly Love’: A raw depiction of the complexities of love.
- ‘Verity’: A thrilling venture into suspense.
- ‘November 9’: A unique twist on the traditional love story.
- ‘Without Merit‘: A deep dive into young love and secrets.
- ‘Maybe Someday’: A harmonious blend of music, love, and betrayal.
- ‘Regretting You’: A beautiful story of art, secrets, and redemption.
- It Starts with Us: An excellent addition to the best It Ends With Us Series
- Layla: An inspiring evolution from her first book to her latest masterpiece.
Best Colleen Hoover Books Ranked Top of the List: Enchantment of Her Narrative
Colleen Hoover’s writing style is a blend of raw emotion, vivid characters, and gripping storylines. Her ability to weave complex emotions into her narratives makes her books not just stories, but experiences. Each character is crafted with depth, making them relatable and real to readers. Hoover’s narratives often explore themes of love, loss, and healing, engaging readers in a deeply personal way.
1. It Ends With Us: Best Colleen Hoover Book
Unsurprisingly, It Ends With Us tops the list as Colleen Hoover’s highest-rated published work and undoubtedly is Colleen’s Best book. This utterly heart-wrenching #1 New York Times bestseller introduces one of Hoover’s most beloved heroines in floral shop owner Lily Bloom.
She seems to finally have it all – a thriving business, strong friendships, the charming Ryle Kincaid back in her life – until ghosts from her past threaten it all.
Raw, real, and full of twists and turns, this book highlights Hoover’s skills at their peak powers. Unforgettable characters make hard choices about life and love, leading to an ending that breaks yet lifts readers up all at once. No list of the best Colleen Hoover books ranked this high and no list of her best books is complete without this astonishing modern classic.
2. Reminders of Him
When her husband dies unexpectedly in a tragic accident, Kenna Rowan must pick up the shattered pieces of her life and raise her daughter alone. But when she discovers her late husband hid disturbing, dangerous secrets, Kenna realizes she never truly knew the man she loved. This emotional journey of grief, growth, friendship, and second chances shows Hoover at her raw, insightful finest.
Reminders of Him may wring readers dry with tears, but the cathartic, hard-won hope at the end makes it all worthwhile. Fans agree this recent release is one of Hoover’s most powerful novels yet about the resilience of the human heart. So Don’t Miss out and read this top-rated Colleen Hoover book
3. November 9: Redefining Romance with Innovative Storytelling
November 9 tells the emotional story of aspiring writer Fallon who keeps crossing paths with Ben, an impulsive yet charming writer also chasing his dream. Though Fallon tries denying her growing feelings, their undeniable connection keeps bringing them back together – no matter how many times they try to part ways.
This bittersweet, achingly romantic book captures the highs and lows of love perfectly. Intense passion collides with introspective character growth in what many consider Hoover’s best standalone love story.
4. Verity
The only full-on thriller Hoover has written so far, Verity is a shocking yet gripping read fans couldn’t get enough of. Struggling writer Lowen Ashleigh is hired by the husband of critically injured author Verity Crawford to finish her popular book series. But when Lowen reads Verity’s creepy private autobiographical manuscript, she realizes the accident may not have been so accidental after all…
With jaw-dropping twists and intoxicating suspense ratcheting up by the minute, Verity shows Hoover’s impressive range as a writer. Many called the chilling anti-heroine Verity one of Hoover’s best characters and one of Colleen masterpiece
5. Ugly Love
The place where it all began, Ugly Love was the breakout hit that first launched Hoover’s meteoric rise. The intense love story between jaded airline pilot Miles and new flight attendant Tate balances phlosophical discussions with plenty of steamy romantic angst.
Many consider this an ideal entry point into Hoover’s bibliography, featuring all her now-recognizable talents for witty dialogue, complex characterization, and exploration of love in its most flawed forms. Fans rank this emotional rollercoaster amongst her very best work.
6. It Starts with Us
It Starts With Us continues fan-favorite characters Lily Bloom and Atlas Corrigan’s tumultuous love story which began in the #1 hit It Ends With Us. While this tearjerker can technically be read as a standalone, fans of the first book couldn’t wait to get their hands on the sequel novel to see what would happen next.
Despite some controversy over certain plot twists, this book features Hoover’s signature banter and heart-stopping romantic moments. Readers call it a satisfying if bittersweet conclusion to Lily and Atlas’ epic saga.
7. Regretting You
This family drama focuses on mother-daughter relationship between Claire and Morgan. When tragedy strikes, secrets come out that make them both question how well they know each other. Long-buried memories resurface as they try to piece their strained bond back together.
The complex narrative filled with painful regrets and hard-won wisdom struck a chord with many readers. Flawed yet sympathetic characters drive this emotional rollercoaster examining how even the closest of bonds can break.
8. Layla
Layla kicks off the emotional “Hooververse” interconnected series where characters from previous books make appearances. This unconventional romance features both the perspectives of the eponymous Layla and her friend (and executive assistant) Spencer as they navigate a tricky professional and personal relationship.
The tension-filled love story and the heartwarming friendships Layla forms with other familiar Hoover heroines make this a standout. Fans called it one of 2022’s best romance reads.
9. Without Merit
The only young adult novel Hoover has written (so far), Without Merit follows the dysfunctional Voss family and is narrated by the hilariously blunt youngest daughter Merit. After a family secret comes out that changes everything Merit thought she knew, the Voss clan has to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives.
While this book features typical Hoover trademarks like witty banter and complex family dynamics, the younger POV gives it a fresh perspective many fans appreciated. The loved yet damaged Merit remains one of Colleen’s most memorable heroines.
10. Maybe Someday
Maybe Someday tells the story of aspiring musician Sydney who finds out her boyfriend is cheating on her with her best friend. At the same time, she meets her moody neighbor Ridge, himself a struggling songwriter. As they bond over music, an unexpected attraction grows despite them both being in relationships.
This New York Times bestseller is one of Colleen’s most emotional contemporary romances, full of drama and hard choices. The unique format with song lyrics written by Hoover and musician Griffin Peterson helps the musical elements shine.
FAQs
Should I read Colleen Hoover’s books in order?
While it’s not necessary to read Colleen Hoover’s books in a specific order, some readers prefer to do so to observe her growth as an author. Each book is a standalone story, though, so you can start with any that catches your interest.
Are Colleen Hoover’s books suitable for all ages?
Colleen Hoover’s books often deal with mature themes and can include explicit content, making them more suitable for adult readers. The Colleen Hoover books age rating typically falls into the New Adult or Adult categories.
Has Colleen Hoover written any series, or are all her books stand-alone?
Most of Colleen Hoover’s books are stand-alone novels, though she has written a few series like the “Slammed” series and the “Maybe” series. Each book in these series offers a continuation or a new perspective on the story.
Which Colleen Hoover book is considered her best seller?
Several of Colleen Hoover’s books have become best sellers, with “It Ends with Us” and “Verity” often cited as her top best sellers, frequently appearing on the New York Times Bestseller list.
How does ‘November 9’ stand out among other romance novels?
“November 9” is unique for its structure, where the story unfolds over several years but only on the same date, November 9. This unique storytelling approach offers a fresh take on the traditional romance novel format.
What is the main theme of ‘Ugly Love’?
The main theme of “Ugly Love” revolves around the complexities of love and how past traumas can shape our present relationships. It explores the idea that love can be both ugly and beautiful.
Can you recommend a Colleen Hoover book for someone who loves thrillers?
For thriller enthusiasts, “Verity” is a highly recommended Colleen Hoover book. It’s a departure from her usual romance genre and delves into more suspenseful and psychological thriller territory.
In Conclusion
Whether you craveemotionally intense love stories, shocking suspense, unconventional heroines, or witty yet heartfelt wisdom about relationships, Colleen Hoover’s impressive range has a book for every reader. Though all her works display an aching vulnerability and insight into the human heart, these 10 novels stand out as her most highly-regarded published so far.
So if you’re new to this beloved author’s bibliography or just want a reminder of the gems amongst her two dozen works, this curated ranking offers the essentials. Get ready to laugh, cry, sigh, and have your heart strings tugged by some of the most compelling characters and stories in contemporary fiction. Once you fall for Colleen Hoover’s irresistible, heart-stopping tales, you’ll likely want to devour them all.
