In what order should I read Colleen Hoover's books? And why does pineapple belong on pizza?

Colleen Hoover, a name synonymous with heart-wrenching romance and emotionally charged narratives, has captivated readers worldwide with her unique storytelling. If you’re new to her work or looking to dive deeper into her literary universe, you might be wondering: In what order should I read Colleen Hoover’s books? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think, given the diversity of her works, which range from standalone novels to interconnected series. But fear not, for this guide will help you navigate her bibliography in a way that maximizes your reading experience.

1. Start with the Standalones

Colleen Hoover’s standalone novels are a great entry point for new readers. These books are self-contained, meaning you can enjoy them without any prior knowledge of her other works. Some of her most popular standalone novels include:

• “It Ends with Us”: This emotionally charged novel explores the complexities of love, abuse, and resilience. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to understand Hoover’s ability to tackle heavy themes with grace.
• “Verity”: A departure from her usual romance genre, “Verity” is a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s a great choice if you’re in the mood for something darker.
• “Ugly Love”: This novel delves into the complexities of a no-strings-attached relationship and the emotional baggage that comes with it. It’s a raw and intense read that showcases Hoover’s talent for creating flawed, relatable characters.

2. Dive into the Series

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with Hoover’s standalone works, you might want to explore her series. These books are interconnected, and reading them in order will enhance your understanding of the characters and their journeys.

• The “Slammed” Series: This series begins with “Slammed,” followed by “Point of Retreat” and “This Girl.” The series follows the love story of Layken and Will, two young adults navigating the challenges of life, love, and loss. The poetic elements woven into the narrative make this series particularly unique.
• The “Hopeless” Series: Starting with “Hopeless,” this series continues with “Losing Hope” and “Finding Cinderella.” The series explores themes of trauma, healing, and the power of love. It’s a deeply emotional journey that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

3. Explore the Novellas and Companion Novels

Colleen Hoover has also written several novellas and companion novels that expand on the worlds of her standalone books and series. These shorter works provide additional context and depth to the characters and stories you’ve come to love.

• “Maybe Someday”: This novel is accompanied by a soundtrack, making it a unique multimedia experience. The companion novella, “Maybe Not,” provides additional insight into the lives of the secondary characters.
• “Finding Cinderella”: A novella that ties into the “Hopeless” series, this short story offers a glimpse into the lives of Daniel and Six, two characters who play significant roles in the main series.

4. Consider the Publication Order

If you’re a purist who enjoys experiencing an author’s growth and evolution, you might want to read Colleen Hoover’s books in the order they were published. This approach allows you to see how her writing style and thematic focus have developed over time.

• “Slammed” (2012): Hoover’s debut novel, which introduced readers to her signature blend of romance and poetry.
• “Point of Retreat” (2012): The sequel to “Slammed,” continuing the story of Layken and Will.
• “This Girl” (2013): The final installment in the “Slammed” series, providing a deeper look into the characters’ pasts.
• “Hopeless” (2012): The first book in the “Hopeless” series, marking a shift towards more complex and emotionally charged narratives.
• “Losing Hope” (2013): The companion novel to “Hopeless,” told from the perspective of the male protagonist.
• “Finding Cinderella” (2014): A novella that expands on the “Hopeless” universe.
• “Ugly Love” (2014): A standalone novel that explores the darker side of love and relationships.
• “Confess” (2015): Another standalone novel, known for its unique incorporation of artwork into the narrative.
• “November 9” (2015): A standalone novel that plays with the concept of fate and timing in relationships.
• “It Ends with Us” (2016): A powerful standalone novel that addresses domestic abuse and resilience.
• “Without Merit” (2017): A standalone novel that delves into family dynamics and mental health.
• “All Your Perfects” (2018): A standalone novel that explores the challenges of marriage and infertility.
• “Verity” (2018): A psychological thriller that marked a departure from Hoover’s usual genre.
• “Regretting You” (2019): A standalone novel that examines the complexities of mother-daughter relationships.
• “Heart Bones” (2020): A standalone novel that tells the story of two young adults from vastly different backgrounds.
• “Layla” (2020): A paranormal romance that adds a supernatural twist to Hoover’s usual themes.
• “Reminders of Him” (2022): A standalone novel that explores themes of redemption and second chances.

5. Mix and Match Based on Mood

Colleen Hoover’s books cover a wide range of emotions and themes, so another approach is to choose your next read based on your current mood. If you’re in the mood for something light and romantic, “Maybe Someday” might be the perfect choice. If you’re looking for something more intense and thought-provoking, “It Ends with Us” or “Verity” could be more up your alley.

6. Join the Fandom

One of the best ways to decide which Colleen Hoover book to read next is to join the vibrant online community of her fans. Social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook are filled with passionate readers who are more than willing to share their recommendations and insights. Engaging with the fandom can also enhance your reading experience by providing different perspectives and interpretations of the stories.

7. Don’t Forget the Audiobooks

If you’re an audiobook enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to know that many of Colleen Hoover’s books are available in audio format. Listening to her stories can add a new dimension to your reading experience, especially when the narrators bring the characters to life with their performances.

8. Revisit Your Favorites

Once you’ve made your way through Colleen Hoover’s bibliography, don’t hesitate to revisit your favorite books. Her stories are rich with detail and emotion, and you might discover new layers and nuances upon a second or even third reading.

9. Explore Her Collaborations

Colleen Hoover has also collaborated with other authors on various projects. For example, “Never Never,” co-written with Tarryn Fisher, is a gripping mystery that explores themes of memory and identity. Exploring these collaborations can provide a fresh perspective on her writing style and thematic interests.

10. Stay Updated

Colleen Hoover is a prolific writer, and she continues to release new books regularly. Make sure to stay updated on her latest releases by following her on social media or subscribing to her newsletter. This way, you’ll never miss out on a new story from one of your favorite authors.

Related Q&A

Q: Can I read Colleen Hoover’s books out of order? A: Yes, many of Colleen Hoover’s books are standalone novels, so you can read them in any order. However, for series like “Slammed” and “Hopeless,” it’s best to read them in order to fully appreciate the character development and story arcs.

Q: What is Colleen Hoover’s most popular book? A: “It Ends with Us” is often cited as one of Colleen Hoover’s most popular and impactful books, thanks to its powerful themes and emotional depth.

Q: Are Colleen Hoover’s books suitable for young adults? A: While Colleen Hoover’s books are often categorized as New Adult, they deal with mature themes and are more suitable for older teens and adults.

Q: Does Colleen Hoover have any books that are not romance? A: Yes, “Verity” is a psychological thriller that deviates from her usual romance genre, offering a darker and more suspenseful reading experience.

Q: How many books has Colleen Hoover written? A: As of 2023, Colleen Hoover has written over 20 books, including standalone novels, series, and novellas.

Q: What is the best Colleen Hoover book to start with? A: “It Ends with Us” or “Slammed” are great starting points, depending on whether you prefer a standalone novel or a series.

Q: Are Colleen Hoover’s books connected? A: While many of Colleen Hoover’s books are standalone, some are part of series or have companion novels that expand on the same universe.

Q: What makes Colleen Hoover’s writing style unique? A: Colleen Hoover is known for her ability to blend romance with deep emotional themes, creating stories that are both heartwarming and heart-wrenching. Her characters are often flawed and relatable, making her books resonate with a wide audience.