What Order Do I Read Colleen Hoover Books? And Why Does It Feel Like Solving a Puzzle?

Colleen Hoover, a name that resonates with readers who crave emotionally charged, heart-wrenching, and often unpredictable stories. With a plethora of books under her belt, it’s no wonder readers often find themselves asking, “What order do I read Colleen Hoover books?” The answer, however, isn’t as straightforward as one might hope. It’s a bit like trying to solve a puzzle where the pieces keep shifting. But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through the labyrinth of CoHo’s literary universe.

The Standalone Novels: A Safe Starting Point

If you’re new to Colleen Hoover’s work, starting with her standalone novels is a great idea. These books don’t require any prior knowledge of her other works, and they offer a perfect introduction to her writing style. Some of the most popular standalone novels include:

• “It Ends with Us”: This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, dealing with heavy themes like domestic abuse and resilience. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to dive deep into Hoover’s storytelling prowess.

• “Verity”: A departure from her usual romance-centric novels, “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 and more suspenseful.

• “Ugly Love”: This novel explores the complexities of love and relationships, with a narrative that alternates between past and present. It’s a heart-wrenching tale that will leave you emotionally drained but satisfied.

The Series: Where Things Get Complicated

Colleen Hoover has also written several series, and this is where the reading order becomes crucial. Here’s a breakdown of her most notable series and the recommended reading order:

1. Slammed Series

• “Slammed”: The first book in the series introduces us to Layken and Will, two characters whose lives are intertwined through poetry and tragedy.
• “Point of Retreat”: The sequel continues Layken and Will’s story, delving deeper into their relationship and the challenges they face.
• “This Girl”: This book offers a different perspective, retelling the events of “Slammed” from Will’s point of view.

2. Hopeless Series

• “Hopeless”: The first book in the series introduces Sky, a girl with a mysterious past, and Holder, a boy who seems to know more about her than she does.
• “Losing Hope”: This book retells the story of “Hopeless” from Holder’s perspective, providing new insights and emotional depth.
• “Finding Cinderella”: A novella that ties into the Hopeless series, offering a lighter, more whimsical story.

3. Maybe Someday Series

• “Maybe Someday”: The first book in the series follows Ridge and Sydney, two musicians who form a deep connection despite the complications in their lives.
• “Maybe Not”: A novella that focuses on Warren and Bridgette, two secondary characters from “Maybe Someday.”
• “Maybe Now”: This book revisits Ridge and Sydney, exploring the next chapter in their lives.

The Reading Order Dilemma: Chronological vs. Publication Order

One of the biggest debates among Colleen Hoover fans is whether to read her books in chronological order (based on the timeline of the story) or in the order they were published. Both approaches have their merits:

• Chronological Order: Reading the books in the order the events occur can provide a more cohesive understanding of the characters and their development. For example, reading “Losing Hope” immediately after “Hopeless” can give you a more rounded view of the story.

• Publication Order: Reading the books in the order they were published allows you to experience the evolution of Hoover’s writing style and thematic focus. It also preserves the element of surprise, as you’ll encounter twists and revelations in the same order as the original readers.

The Emotional Rollercoaster: What to Expect

No matter which order you choose, one thing is certain: Colleen Hoover’s books are an emotional rollercoaster. Her stories often deal with heavy themes like love, loss, trauma, and redemption. Be prepared to laugh, cry, and question everything you thought you knew about relationships.

Related Q&A

Q: Can I read Colleen Hoover’s books out of order? A: While most of her standalone novels can be read in any order, it’s best to follow the recommended reading order for her series to fully appreciate the character development and plot continuity.

Q: Which Colleen Hoover book should I start with? A: If you’re new to her work, “It Ends with Us” or “Slammed” are great starting points. Both offer a good introduction to her writing style and thematic focus.

Q: Are Colleen Hoover’s books suitable for young adults? A: While some of her books are marketed towards young adults, many deal with mature themes and are more appropriate for older readers. Always check the content warnings before diving in.

Q: Will there be more books in the Hopeless or Maybe Someday series? A: As of now, Colleen Hoover has not announced any new books in these series. However, she frequently surprises her fans with new releases, so it’s always worth keeping an eye out for updates.

In conclusion, the order in which you read Colleen Hoover’s books can significantly impact your reading experience. Whether you choose to follow the chronological order or stick to the publication order, one thing is certain: you’re in for an emotional journey that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.