Colleen Hoover has taken the literary world by storm with her gut-wrenching plots, heartwarming romance, and unique blend of emotional depth that keeps readers coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned Hoover fan or a newcomer looking for a place to dive in, you’ll find that her books offer a perfect balance of passion, heartache, and redemption. From page-turning romances to unforgettable characters, Colleen Hoover is undoubtedly one of the best-selling authors of our time.
But with so many fantastic books under her belt, where should you start? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this list, we’ll dive into the 13 best Colleen Hoover books to read in 2025, ranging from her iconic best-sellers to her latest releases that will have you hooked from the very first page. Whether you’re in the mood for a soul-stirring romance, a heart-thumping thriller, or a tale that will make you sob uncontrollably, these books are guaranteed to keep you up all night. Let’s get started—grab some tissues and your favorite blanket, because you’ll want to binge-read these must-reads in one go!
13. Layla
Why you should read it:
This one is for anyone who loves a mix of romance, suspense, and a touch of the supernatural. Colleen Hoover gives readers a thrilling ride with Layla, a story about love that defies the boundaries of life and death. It’s not your average romance novel, which is why it stands out in Hoover’s extensive collection.
Pros:
Unpredictable plot twists.
Unique mix of romance and paranormal elements.
Emotional depth that packs a punch.
Cons:
Some readers might find the supernatural elements a bit out of their comfort zone.
The pacing can feel a little slow in the middle.
Book Review:
Layla is not your typical Colleen Hoover romance. Oh no, this one takes you on a journey of the supernatural, wrapped in emotional turmoil, and seasoned with some what the heck just happened? moments. The story kicks off with Leeds, who’s dealing with the aftermath of a terrible incident that has left his love interest, Layla, physically and emotionally altered. But there’s something off about Layla—something that makes Leeds wonder if the woman he’s falling for is even the same person anymore.
What makes Layla stand out in Hoover’s impressive collection is the perfect blend of romance and paranormal. As the plot thickens, Leeds gets caught in a whirlwind of love, guilt, and eerie events that are hard to explain. Hoover’s talent shines through as she masterfully balances all these emotions, creating a story that’s equal parts haunting and heart-wrenching. The chemistry between Leeds and Layla is off the charts, and you’ll find yourself rooting for them, even when the supernatural twists make everything feel impossibly complicated.
However, this isn’t the lighthearted romance some might expect from Hoover. The supernatural elements are strong, and while some readers might love the unique touch, others might find themselves scratching their heads (or clutching their pearls). But if you’re up for a romance that challenges the boundaries of reality and love, Layla will have you questioning what you thought you knew about relationships. Definitely not a typical romance, but one you won’t forget.
12. Verity
Why you should read it:
If you haven’t read Verity, what are you doing with your life? This psychological thriller has a unique suspenseful edge that Hoover fans never expected from her, and it will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Pros:
Heart-pounding suspense and unexpected twists.
A gripping, unpredictable plot.
Complex, layered characters.
Cons:
Dark and intense themes that may not be for everyone.
Some readers may find the ending unsettling.
Book Review:
Prepare yourself for a plot twist that will leave your jaw on the floor. Verity is a wild ride, and Colleen Hoover shows us a side we never knew she had—psychological suspense! This book is so intense that you’ll forget it’s even classified as a romance. In fact, it’s the kind of book you finish in a day (because who can stop reading once the madness begins?).
Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer, is given the task of completing the famous Verity Crawford’s book series. While going through Verity’s notes, Lowen uncovers some chilling secrets that no one was ever meant to see. The line between truth and fiction blurs, and what starts as a simple job becomes a maze of deception, mystery, and spine-tingling suspense.
What’s really interesting here is how Hoover uses unreliable narrators and twists the plot until it’s completely unrecognizable. There’s no shortage of shocking moments in Verity, and the tension between the characters only adds to the eerie atmosphere. While it might not have the traditional romance you’d expect from Hoover, the dark and twisted nature of the story will keep you on edge. It’s the kind of book you need to discuss with friends, just to process the emotional wreckage it leaves behind. And trust me, you will need to process it. Buckle up, because this one is not for the faint of heart.
11. It Ends with Us
Why you should read it:
It Ends with Us is one of Hoover’s most beloved novels, and for a good reason. It’s a heart-wrenching story about love, strength, and the complexities of relationships. If you haven’t read this one, you’re missing out on one of the most powerful love stories in modern literature.
Pros:
Beautifully written with raw emotion.
Thought-provoking themes about abusive relationships.
Memorable characters that you’ll root for.
Cons:
Some readers find the heavy themes difficult to digest.
The pacing may feel slow at times.
Book Review:
If you’ve been living under a rock and haven’t read It Ends with Us, it’s time to change that. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, with Hoover doing what she does best—breaking your heart in the most tender and gut-wrenching way possible. Lily Bloom’s journey is nothing short of life-altering, and trust me, you’ll feel every tear, every heartbreak, and every triumphant moment alongside her.
The beauty of this novel is how it tackles real-life issues, especially the complexities of abusive relationships, with brutal honesty. Lily falls in love with Ryle, a man who seems perfect on the surface but comes with some dangerous baggage. As their relationship evolves, Lily finds herself torn between love and the reality of what’s happening to her. Hoover doesn’t sugarcoat the emotional turmoil that comes with toxic love, and while it’s difficult to read at times, it’s incredibly important.
It Ends with Us is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking read that goes beyond the typical romance story. It teaches us about strength, resilience, and the importance of recognizing when to walk away. The romance doesn’t look like a fairytale, but it’s real, and that’s what makes it so powerful. This is one of those books that will haunt you, make you cry, and possibly change your perspective on love.
10. Confess
Why you should read it:
Confess blends romance with art in a way that’s unique to Colleen Hoover. The story revolves around the concept of confession booths (not the religious kind) and the deep emotional connections that are made through secrets and confessions.
Pros:
Unique concept with emotional storytelling.
Beautiful artwork woven into the story.
Unpredictable and engaging characters.
Cons:
The slow build-up may not be for everyone.
The romance is sometimes overshadowed by the story’s deeper themes.
Book Review:
If you’re someone who loves art, mystery, and a healthy dose of romance, Confess is the book you didn’t know you were waiting for. The story revolves around Auburn, a woman with a heavy past who walks into an art gallery one day and discovers that the confessions painted on the walls may have something to do with her. There’s a mysterious connection between her and the artist, Owen, and while the sparks fly between them, their relationship is built on secrets that could destroy everything.
What makes Confess stand out is Hoover’s ability to combine romance with a deeper theme of vulnerability and the healing power of confessions. The artwork that plays a central role in the story is not just a backdrop but an emotional vessel that pulls the characters and readers into a web of unresolved pain and longing. Hoover explores how art can reveal the truth we often hide from ourselves, and it’s through these confessions that Auburn and Owen’s journey really hits home.
The pace of the story is slow and deliberate, giving readers time to connect with the characters and understand their motivations. But once the pieces start falling into place, you won’t be able to put the book down. With plenty of twists and a healthy dose of heartbreak, Confess is a deeply moving love story that will have you questioning your own confessions and secrets.
9. Reminders of Him
Why you should read it:
If you’re a fan of second chances and emotional healing, then Reminders of Him is a must-read. Colleen Hoover’s latest release taps into themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the struggles of moving on from past mistakes.
Pros:
Heartfelt and emotional.
Relatable themes of redemption and forgiveness.
Strong character development.
Cons:
The heavy emotional themes might be overwhelming for some readers.
The slow pacing in the beginning may deter some.
Book Review:
Reminders of Him is a beautiful exploration of forgiveness, redemption, and the second chances we all need. Colleen Hoover dives into the life of Ledger, a man who’s spent years paying for mistakes made in his past. When he reconnects with Kenna, the mother of his child, he has to confront everything he’s done and decide whether he can open his heart to the possibility of redemption.
What makes this book so special is how Hoover handles the complexity of human emotions. Ledger’s internal conflict is portrayed with such authenticity that you’ll find yourself torn between rooting for him and understanding the reasons behind his actions. Kenna’s journey, too, is one of immense growth as she strives to rebuild her life after her own mistakes. The tension between the two characters is palpable, and you’ll feel the weight of their shared history with every page.
While Reminders of Him might start off slow, once it picks up, it’s impossible to put down. The way Hoover blends emotional depth with a hopeful message of second chances will leave you teary-eyed and reflective. It’s one of those stories that makes you believe in the power of forgiveness and the possibility of a fresh start. So, if you’re looking for a romance that tugs at your heartstrings and leaves you thinking, this one’s for you.
8. November 9
Why you should read it:
Another fan favorite, November 9 is a love story that unfolds in a unique way, with a connection between the two main characters that defies the typical tropes of romance. Prepare for a plot that’s full of surprises and emotional depth.
Pros:
Interesting premise with unique storytelling.
Emotional highs and lows.
Strong chemistry between characters.
Cons:
Some plot twists may feel a bit far-fetched for certain readers.
Slow pacing in the middle.
Book Review:
November 9 is the type of book that will make you question the concept of fate. Fallon and Ben meet under unusual circumstances, and despite the distance, they decide to meet every year on November 9th. The result? A deep, intense relationship that’s both beautiful and heart-wrenching. Hoover knows exactly how to create characters you’ll fall for, even when their decisions make your heart ache.
What sets November 9 apart from other romances is the storytelling. It’s not just about the romance itself, but also about the ways in which people change over time. Each year, Fallon and Ben evolve, and so does their relationship. Their story is an emotional journey about personal growth, finding love against the odds, and learning to let go of the past. The twist at the end? It’ll leave you reeling, and you’ll be thinking about it long after the book is over.
The pacing is perfect—slow at first as they navigate their individual struggles, but it picks up as they become more entwined in each other’s lives. Hoover’s writing is deeply emotional and raw, especially as the story moves toward the end. If you love a love story that’s built on deep emotional connection and the concept of timing, November 9 is the book that will make you believe in fate.
7. Slammed
Why you should read it:
If you want to experience Colleen Hoover’s debut novel that launched her career, Slammed is where it all began. It’s raw, emotional, and full of poetry. Fans of contemporary romance will love the chemistry between the characters.
Pros:
Unique blend of poetry and storytelling.
Strong character development.
Thought-provoking themes about family and love.
Cons:
Some readers may find the writing style unconventional.
The pacing may feel slow for some.
Book Review:
Slammed is the book that kicked off Hoover’s career in a big way, and for good reason. This novel has all the elements that make Colleen Hoover such a standout author—poignant emotions, intense romance, and heart-stopping moments. The story follows Layken, a teenager who’s just moved to Michigan after her father’s passing. There, she meets Will, a brooding yet charming young man with an undeniable connection to her. But what starts as a simple romance quickly grows into something far more complex.
The poetry, oh, the poetry! Hoover’s use of poetry throughout the novel adds a whole new layer to the romance. Will, who’s an aspiring poet, uses his words to convey the emotions that neither character is willing to say out loud. It’s beautiful, heartbreaking, and totally captivating. As Layken and Will navigate their emotions and their complicated lives, readers are treated to a romance that feels genuine and full of raw emotion.
What makes Slammed so special is the way Hoover weaves themes of family, love, grief, and personal growth into the narrative. The romance doesn’t feel forced or unrealistic—it’s a slow burn that you’ll get completely invested in. Slammed might be one of the more heart-wrenching novels in Hoover’s collection, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. It’s the kind of book that leaves you feeling both broken and healed.
6. Ugly Love
Why you should read it:
Colleen Hoover’s Ugly Love is one of her most intense, raw, and emotional stories. If you’re in the mood for a romance that isn’t all sunshine and rainbows (but will still make your heart race), then this is the book for you. Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster that you won’t be able to put down.
Pros:
Intense, gripping romance.
Dual timeline format adds depth to the story.
Complex, flawed characters that are easy to root for.
Cons:
The heavy themes of love and heartbreak might be too intense for some readers.
The slow build-up could frustrate readers who prefer fast-paced romances.
Book Review:
If you’re in the mood for a love story that’s anything but easy, Ugly Love will be your perfect match. This isn’t your typical fairy tale romance—it’s messy, raw, and real. The chemistry between Tate and Miles is instant, but the baggage they carry makes for a slow, agonizing journey toward love.
Miles is a man with a past that’s so painful he’s shut himself off from the world, and Tate finds herself falling for him despite his resistance. Hoover does a masterful job of showing how deep emotional scars can impact relationships, and how love doesn’t always come easy. The flashbacks to Miles’ past add layers of complexity to the story, and while it’s a slow burn, it’s absolutely worth the wait.
Ugly Love is a story about healing and learning to love despite the scars we carry. It’s heartbreaking, but it’s also incredibly beautiful. As Tate and Miles learn to confront their fears and their pasts, they’re forced to face the hardest question of all: Is love worth the pain? If you’re a fan of slow-burn romances with plenty of emotional depth, Ugly Love is a must-read.
5. All Your Perfects
Why you should read it:
Looking for a love story that explores the messiness of relationships and the importance of forgiveness? All Your Perfects is a beautiful yet painful exploration of the challenges couples face when things don’t go as planned. It’s the perfect pick for readers who want more than just a happy ending.
Pros:
Realistic portrayal of marital struggles.
Strong emotional depth and character growth.
Tackles important themes like infertility and the struggles of marriage.
Cons:
Some may find the story’s emotional weight too much to handle.
The pacing can feel slow at times.
Book Review:
Sometimes, love doesn’t look perfect, and that’s exactly what All Your Perfects is about. This novel follows Quinn and Graham, a couple whose marriage is on the brink of falling apart due to infertility and unspoken struggles. What Hoover does brilliantly here is explore the real complexities of a relationship, showing that love isn’t always enough to overcome the hardest challenges.
The characters are so well-developed that you’ll feel every bit of their pain, frustration, and hope. Quinn and Graham are deeply flawed, and their journey is one of healing and self-discovery. The book alternates between their past and present, revealing how their relationship started and what has brought them to the breaking point. As the story progresses, you’ll feel the weight of their emotional journey, and the hope that comes from truly understanding each other.
What makes All Your Perfects so powerful is how real it feels. Hoover doesn’t shy away from the difficult parts of relationships—she shows the ugly, raw moments that are often hidden behind closed doors. It’s a story about learning to accept imperfections and fighting for the love that’s worth saving. If you’re looking for a romance that’s heartfelt and deeply emotional, All Your Perfects will tug at your heartstrings.
4. Heart Bones
Why you should read it:
If you’re looking for a book that combines the charm of a summer romance with the intensity of emotional growth, Heart Bones is the perfect choice. It’s one of Hoover’s more recent releases, and it has all the ingredients for a heartwarming, yet tear-jerking, story.
Pros:
Well-developed characters and emotional depth.
Unique setting with a beach town vibe.
Perfect balance of romance and self-discovery.
Cons:
Some readers may find the pacing a bit slow.
The ending might feel too predictable for some.
Book Review:
In Heart Bones, Hoover takes us on a journey to the beach, where Beyah and Samson’s paths cross in the most unexpected way. Beyah, a young woman with a tragic past, is sent to live with her estranged father for the summer. There, she meets Samson, and despite their vastly different lives, they form an undeniable bond. But as their romance blooms, they each have to confront the truths about their pasts.
What makes Heart Bones stand out is how Hoover combines a picturesque summer setting with some seriously deep emotional stakes. The beach provides the perfect backdrop for the emotional turbulence that both characters are going through. As Beyah and Samson navigate their complicated pasts and troubled futures, their relationship becomes a source of healing and growth.
The chemistry between the characters is undeniable, but the emotional depth is what really makes this story special. Hoover takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and the power of love to mend even the deepest wounds. It’s the kind of book that’ll have you rooting for the characters and feeling like you’re right there with them on the beach. Heart Bones is a beautiful, bittersweet romance that will stay with you long after the final page.
3. Verity (Expanded Edition)
Why you should read it:
If you loved the original Verity, then you’ll want to dive into the expanded edition for even more twists and turns! Colleen Hoover’s psychological thriller is already a fan-favorite, but this new version adds layers that’ll make your head spin.
Pros:
Additional chapters deepen the mystery and suspense.
Enhanced character development.
Intense plot twists that keep you hooked.
Cons:
The expanded edition may feel repetitive for readers who’ve already read the original.
The dark themes might be too intense for some.
Book Review:
Prepare to have your mind twisted and your heart in a vice with Verity. This is Colleen Hoover at her most chilling, blending psychological suspense with her trademark emotional depth. Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer, is hired to complete the remaining books of a famous author, Verity Crawford. As she dives into Verity’s manuscripts, she uncovers disturbing secrets about the author and her life, but there’s a twist—Verity isn’t as innocent as she seems, and what Lowen discovers will leave you questioning everything.
This book is NOT your typical Hoover romance, and that’s what makes it so intriguing. It’s a dark, tense, and utterly gripping thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Hoover’s ability to seamlessly weave a chilling mystery with elements of romance is on full display here. The chemistry between Lowen and Verity’s husband, Jeremy, adds an extra layer of complexity to the story as they both struggle with the demons of the past.
What really sets Verity apart is its shocking twists. There are moments where you’ll find yourself gasping out loud, wondering just how deep the deception goes. It’s a book that’s as terrifying as it is addictive. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that make your heart race, Verity is a must-read.
2. This Girl
Why you should read it:
This Girl is the final book in the Slammed series, and it offers a deeper dive into the relationship between Layken and Will. If you loved Slammed and Point of Retreat, then this concluding book will tie up all the loose ends and provide the closure you’ve been craving.
Pros:
Beautiful conclusion to a beloved series.
Strong emotional moments and satisfying closure.
Poignant poetry that continues the theme of the series.
Cons:
Some readers might not appreciate the repetitive nature of the series conclusion.
If you haven’t read the previous books, this one might not be as impactful.
Book Review:
It Starts with Us is the highly anticipated prequel to It Ends with Us, and it gives us a glimpse into the love story between Lily and Atlas before the heartbreak that came in the original novel. If you were left sobbing at the end of It Ends with Us (and let’s be honest, who wasn’t?), then this book will give you the sweet relief you’ve been craving. It’s a tender, heartfelt look at the beginning of their relationship, showing how Lily and Atlas found their way to each other amidst all the challenges they face.
What makes It Starts with Us so special is that it’s a beautiful balance between healing and hope. It shows that love can flourish even in the midst of past pain, and it gives the characters a chance to get the happy ending they deserve. Fans of It Ends with Us will adore revisiting these characters, and the extra layer of depth that It Starts with Us provides makes their journey all the more satisfying.
While this book certainly has its emotional moments, it’s a more uplifting read than its predecessor. It gives readers a chance to see Lily and Atlas grow, not only as a couple but also as individuals. It’s a perfect companion to It Ends with Us and a must-read for anyone who’s followed their journey.
1. It Starts with Us
Why you should read it:
It Starts with Us is the highly anticipated sequel to It Ends with Us, and it’s one of Colleen Hoover’s most exciting releases. If you loved the first book, you won’t want to miss the continuation of Lily and Ryle’s story as they navigate life and love after all the heartbreak.
Pros:
Continuation of a beloved romance.
Deals with heavy topics while offering hope and healing.
Strong character development and emotional payoff.
Cons:
Some readers might feel the sequel doesn’t live up to the original.
The intense emotional themes may be difficult for some to process.
Book Review:
It Ends with Us is the book that brought Colleen Hoover into the mainstream spotlight, and it’s easy to see why. The story follows Lily Bloom, who falls in love with the charismatic and intense Ryle Kincaid. At first, their relationship seems perfect—until it’s not. Hoover’s exploration of domestic abuse is both heartbreaking and incredibly powerful. Lily finds herself in a difficult, emotionally draining situation, torn between her love for Ryle and the toxic cycle she finds herself caught in.
What makes It Ends with Us stand out is Hoover’s ability to tackle difficult, real-life issues with grace and sensitivity. The romance is intense, but it’s the emotional depth and raw honesty that makes this book unforgettable. The characters feel real, flawed, and relatable, which makes their struggles all the more heartbreaking.
The way Hoover weaves in the story of Lily’s past—her first love with Atlas—adds complexity and nuance to the narrative. It’s a heart-wrenching, gut-punching, and beautiful story of survival, strength, and ultimately, love. It Ends with Us is a story that will stay with you long after you finish it, leaving you contemplating the true meaning of love and the importance of walking away from something that’s not right. This is a must-read and undoubtedly one of the best Colleen Hoover books of all time.
Final Words
This concludes our list of the top 13 Colleen Hoover books! Each one brings something unique, whether it’s psychological suspense, heart-wrenching romance, or raw emotional depth. Colleen Hoover continues to be one of the best-selling authors of our time, and each of these books proves why she holds such a place in readers’ hearts. Whether you’re new to her work or a seasoned fan, these 13 books will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, and you’ll be left eagerly awaiting whatever Hoover writes next. Happy reading!