It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover is a contemporary romance novel and the highly anticipated sequel to the bestselling It Ends With Us. Focused on healing, second chances, and new beginnings, the book continues Lily Bloom’s journey while giving Atlas Corrigan the spotlight fans longed for. Here’s a detailed summary of its events.
First Half Summary (Key Events)
The novel picks up right after the ending of It Ends With Us. Lily Bloom is navigating life as a single mother to her daughter, Emerson, while balancing the complexities of co-parenting with her ex-husband, Ryle Kincaid. Ryle, though a skilled surgeon, struggles with jealousy and anger, making Lily cautious about setting boundaries for Emerson’s safety.
Before long, Lily unexpectedly and happily reconnects with her first love, Atlas Corrigan. He has become a successful and kind restaurant owner who is still deeply in love with her. Their reunion is gentle yet powerful, symbolizing a fresh start after years of pain.
In this part of the story, Lily reflects on the abuse she endured with Ryle and the strength it took to leave him. Her time with Atlas is a sharp contrast to her past experiences. Where Ryle was controlling, Atlas is respectful and patient, giving Lily the freedom to move forward at her own pace.
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In the initial chapters, the story shows Lily’s inner conflict as she tries to balance being a mother, her fear of how Ryle might react, and her wish to have a relationship with Atlas again. Readers see the groundwork for healing, forgiveness, and cautious hope.
Second Half Summary (Climax to Ending)
As Lily and Atlas’s bond deepens, her difficulties with Ryle become more severe. Ryle’s jealousy surfaces when he realizes Atlas is part of Lily’s life again. Tension mounts as Ryle starts questioning Lily’s choices, leading to tense and sometimes explosive arguments. Despite this, Lily remains steadfast, determined to protect Emerson and prioritize her well-being.
Meanwhile, Atlas faces his own struggles. His troubled past resurfaces when he learns more about his younger brother, Josh, who has been neglected and needs guidance. Atlas steps into a protective role, showing his growth from a vulnerable teen into a responsible, nurturing figure. His care for Josh mirrors the patience he shows Lily, reinforcing the book’s themes of family and healing.
The climax centers on Lily’s brave confrontation with Ryle. She firmly establishes boundaries, refusing to let his anger dictate her future. This moment is empowering, as Lily proves she can stand strong not only for herself but also for her daughter.
By the end, Lily and Atlas officially begin their relationship, marking the start of a new chapter filled with respect, kindness, and genuine love. The story closes on a hopeful note, reminding readers that cycles of abuse can end, and that second chances at love are possible.
Conclusion
It Starts With Us is both a continuation and a healing balm for readers of It Ends With Us. While the first book dealt with the painful truth of abusive relationships, this sequel offers a sense of finality and a necessary look at healing, inner strength, and finding love again.
Colleen Hoover skillfully contrasts the toxic relationship between Lily and Ryle with the healthy dynamic she shares with Atlas. Through this, she illustrates the importance of trust, patience, and mutual respect in building a sustainable future. The inclusion of Atlas’s perspective adds depth, giving fans insight into his unwavering devotion and personal growth.
The novel also broadens its themes by weaving in Atlas’s family story, showing that healing isn’t limited to romantic love but extends to family bonds and second chances in life.
In the end, It Starts With Us delivers what readers hoped for: a tender, satisfying resolution that honors Lily’s journey and validates her strength. It Starts With Us isn’t just a love story—it’s about survival, empowerment, and the courage to embrace happiness after hardship.
FAQs
1. Who wrote It Starts With Us?
Colleen Hoover, a bestselling author of contemporary romance and new adult fiction.
2. Is it a sequel?
Yes, it is the sequel to It Ends With Us, continuing Lily’s story right after the first book ends.
3. What is the main theme?
Healing from trauma, second chances at love, and building healthier relationships.
4. Who are the main characters?
Lily Bloom, Atlas Corrigan, Ryle Kincaid, and Atlas’s younger brother Josh.
5. How does Lily handle co-parenting with Ryle?
She sets strict boundaries to protect her daughter Emerson while ensuring Ryle remains part of her life.
6. What role does Atlas play in the story?
Atlas is Lily’s safe haven and first love, reentering her life to offer patience, love, and healing.
7. Does Lily end up with Atlas?
Yes, by the end of the book, Lily and Atlas officially start their relationship.
8. What is Ryle’s role?
Ryle represents Lily’s past trauma. His presence creates conflict as he struggles with jealousy and control.
9. Who is Josh?
Josh is Atlas’s younger brother, introduced in this book, adding depth to Atlas’s personal story.
10. Does the book focus on abuse like the first one?
Not as heavily. Instead, it emphasizes healing and moving forward after an abusive relationship.
11. Is the book told from multiple perspectives?
Yes, it alternates between Lily’s and Atlas’s points of view.
12. What makes Atlas different from Ryle?
Atlas respects Lily’s choices, supports her healing, and builds trust, contrasting Ryle’s controlling nature.
13. Is the book suitable to read without It Ends With Us?
To truly grasp Lily’s story, it is highly recommended to read this book after finishing It Ends With Us.
14. How does the book end?
With Lily and Atlas embracing a new chapter together, filled with hope and love.
15. Why is this book popular?
Because it gives readers closure, offering a positive continuation to a powerful, emotional story.