With over 20 novels to her name, Colleen Hoover has proven to be one of literature’s most popular contemporary authors, and these ten are among her best. Hoover, affectionately known as CoHo, has demonstrated an impressive range in her writing, spanning from heartfelt romantic stories filled with yearning and young love to spine-chilling thrillers that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Her journey to success is a fascinating tale in itself, starting with self-published works that became smash hits, leading to the sale of film rights for one of her most notable novels, It Ends With Us.

With several books that became popular on BookTok, Hoover’s ability to consistently produce bestsellers year after year is a testament to her skill as a writer and her deep understanding of what captivates readers. While each of her novels offers a unique and engaging experience, some stand out for their exceptional storytelling, unforgettable characters, and the indelible impact they leave on readers.

10

Too Late (2016)

Explores darker, more complex dynamics

Too Late delves into the dangerous world of drug trafficking and the complex dynamics between its central characters, Sloan and Asa Jackson. The narrative explores the dark underbelly of their relationship, highlighting the constant danger and emotional turmoil that Sloan faces as she navigates her feelings for Asa while being entangled in his illicit activities. The introduction of an undercover DEA agent adds an extra layer of tension and moral ambiguity, as Sloan finds herself drawn to him, further complicating her already precarious situation.

The psychological suspense that permeates the story sets Too Late apart from the popular BookTok author’s other works, showcasing her ability to craft a gripping and intense narrative. The mature themes and the exploration of the characters’ motivations and choices elevate the book beyond a simple romance, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally charged read. While the subject matter may not be suitable for all readers, those who appreciate a darker, more complex storyline will find Too Late to be a compelling and unforgettable experience.

9

Layla (2020)

A classic love triangle story

Layla is an interesting glimpse into the character, Leeds’, internal struggle to navigate his relationship with Layla following her traumatic attack. As Layla’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, Leeds is forced to confront difficult questions about love, loyalty, and personal growth, creating a narrative that is both emotionally charged and thought-provoking. The tension in their relationship escalates, pushing Leeds to his limits and challenging his understanding of the woman he loves.

The bed and breakfast setting, which holds special significance for the couple, serves as a poignant backdrop for the unfolding drama, as Leeds finds himself drawn to a mysterious guest staying at the same location. This new love interest introduces an extra layer of complexity to the story, as Leeds grapples with his feelings for both women, further complicating an already difficult situation. Hoover expertly explores the emotional turmoil that Leeds experiences, crafting a captivating love triangle that showcases her ability to create multi-dimensional characters and engaging storylines.

8

Never Never (2015)

Interesting themes keep the novel engaging

The unique premise of Never Never lies in the couple’s sudden and inexplicable loss of their shared memories, which sets the stage for a gripping exploration of love, identity, and the power of connection. As the protagonists embark on a journey to rediscover their past and the reasons behind their relationship, the story focuses on the complexities of long-term partnerships and the challenges of maintaining love in the face of uncertainty. The authors’ combined talents shine through in the creation of a suspenseful and emotionally charged narrative.

Hoover and Fisher’s collaboration brings a unique blend of romance and mystery to the table, making Never Never more than just a love story. The characters’ quest to unravel the truth behind their memory loss and the nature of their relationship makes the plot all the more intriguing, adding a compelling twist to Hoover’s bibliography. The story’s exploration of the enduring nature of love, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, resonates and contributes to the book’s popularity and critical acclaim.

7

Heart Bones (2020)

The perfect beach read

Heart Bones‘ engaging storyline unfolds against the backdrop of a picturesque seaside town, creating an immersive atmosphere that draws readers into the story. The contrast between Beyah’s challenging past and the promise of a brighter future through her scholarship adds depth to her character, making her journey all the more compelling. As she navigates the complexities of her newfound relationship with her father and the unexpected connection with Samson, the story touches on themes of love and transformative.

Hoover’s ability to capture the intensity and vulnerability of first love is one of the book’s greatest strengths. The characters’ agreement to engage in a casual summer fling adds an element of tension and uncertainty to the story, as readers are left to wonder how this decision will ultimately shape their lives. While Heart Bones may not rank as Hoover’s absolute best work, it offers a poignant and emotionally resonant tale that showcases her skill in crafting relatable and memorable characters.

6

Ugly Love (2014)

A unique friends-with-benefits love story

Ugly Love‘s nonlinear narrative structure, which alternates between the present and Miles’ past, is an element of the book that truly makes it stand out. The gradual revelation of Miles’ backstory through flashback chapters provides insight into his character, shedding light on his emotional struggles and the reasons behind his reluctance to commit to a serious relationship. This storytelling technique effectively heightens the emotional impact of the present timeline, as the reader becomes increasingly invested in understanding the complexities of Miles’ character and his connection with Tate.

The exploration of the friends-with-benefits dynamic and its potential pitfalls is a central theme in Ugly Love, and Hoover’s handling of this subject matter showcases her undeniable talent. The book’s heartbreaking turn serves as a powerful reminder of the risks involved in such arrangements, particularly when one person’s feelings develop beyond the initial agreement. Ugly Love remains a compelling and emotionally charged novel that demonstrates her skill at creating complex relationships and exploring the intricacies of human relationships.

5

Regretting You (2019)

A realistic and compelling mother-daughter story

The complex and often strained relationship between Morgan and Clara serves as the emotional core of Regretting You, with Hoover’s skillful exploration of their differing perspectives and the challenges they face in understanding one another. The tension between Morgan’s protective instincts as a mother and Clara’s desire for independence and the pursuit of her dreams adds palpable realism to their dynamic, making their journey all the more compelling. Chris’ role as the mediator between mother and daughter highlights the importance of family bonds and the impact that a single person can have on maintaining harmony within a household.

The tragic accident that befalls Chris acts as the catalyst for Morgan and Clara’s personal growth and the evolution of their relationship. As they navigate the profound loss and attempt to rebuild their lives, the story perfects the themes of grief, resilience, and the power of familial love. Regretting You‘s authenticity places it among Hoover’s most impactful works.

4

November 9 (2015)

A great exploration of enduring long

The unique premise of November 9, which revolves around Fallon and Ben’s annual meetings on the same date for five years, sets the stage for a poignant exploration of love and fate. As the characters navigate their lives and the challenges they face between each meeting, the story explores the ways in which time and distance can both strengthen and strain the bonds between two people. The novel’s structure, with its yearly snapshots of Fallon and Ben’s journey, is especially engaging as one becomes more invested in their lives.

November 9‘s ability to evoke a range of emotions and its exploration of the enduring nature of love places it among Hoover’s most highly regarded works. The development of the characters’ relationship over the course of the five years is both heartwarming and authentic. With its unique premise, engaging narrative, and the depth of its characters November 9 solidifies its position as one of her most memorable books.

3

It Ends With Us (2016)

Hoover’s most popular novel that explores overcoming trauma

Lily’s journey in It Ends With Us is a powerful exploration of the lasting impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships. As she navigates the complexities of her past and present, the novel offers a thought-provoking look at the challenges of overcoming trauma and the importance of self-discovery. Hoover’s handling of sensitive subjects and her ability to create characters that feel genuine and relatable have contributed to the book’s success and its place among her most highly regarded works.

The unexpected return of Atlas, Lily’s first love, and the revelations about her current partner, Ryle, add layers of complexity to the story. These elements force Lily to confront difficult truths and make tough decisions about her future. It Ends With Us‘ emotional resonance and its exploration of strength and resilience have struck a chord with many. With a film adaptation of It Ends With Us on the horizon, the story’s impact and popularity show no signs of waning.

2

Reminders Of Him (2022)

A hopeful and tender novel

Reminders of Him‘s powerful narrative revolves around themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. Kenna’s journey to reconnect with her daughter after serving a prison sentence is fraught with emotional obstacles and societal judgments, highlighting the challenges faced by those seeking to rebuild their lives after incarceration. The story’s exploration of the consequences of past mistakes and the struggle to overcome them makes this novel worth the read.

The blossoming romance between Kenna and Ledger adds an element of hope and tenderness to the novel. The unlikely connection that develops between the two characters, despite the obstacles that should keep them apart, is a powerful reminder of the capacity love has to heal even the deepest wounds. This masterful blend of drama and romance sets Reminders of Him apart, making it a standout in Hoover’s body of work and a must-read for fans of emotionally driven stories.

1

Verity (2018)

A mysterious, psychological and unexpected story

The captivating and suspenseful narrative of Verity propels it to the top of Hoover’s impressive body of work. The story is full of mystery, psychological intrigue, and unexpected twists that promise an engrossing read from start to finish. The complex and morally ambiguous characters, particularly Verity and Lowen, add depth and richness to the plot, making it easy to question their motives and the reliability of their perspectives.

Verity‘s exploration of the darker aspects of human nature, the blurred lines between truth and fiction, and the consequences of obsession and manipulation sets it apart from Hoover’s other novels. The story’s ability to elicit a wide range of emotions, from curiosity and suspense to shock and unease, is a testament to its impactful storytelling. The book’s unforgettable conclusion and the ensuing debate it sparks among readers further solidify its position as Colleen Hoover‘s most compelling and thought-provoking work to date.