Colleen Hoover is one of the most successful New Adult fiction writers, known for her rich narratives and emotionally resonant stories.
Hoover’s literature focuses on young adults aged between 18 and 30 – she’s been dubbed as one of the most influential New Adult fiction writers of this era.
Hoover published her first novel, Slammed, in 2012, which rocketed to the top of the New York Times e-book bestseller list, marking the beginning of an incredibly successful writing career.
Known for her rich narrative style that blends emotionality, realistic character design, and intriguing, intricate plots, Hoover’s writing often explores human relationships, and her characters are relatable and authentic, which makes each novel endlessly readable.
Hoover is renowned for her series and companion books, like the Slammed and Hopeless series, but she’s also published dozens of standalone novels. She’s won numerous awards, including the Goodreads Choice Award three times.
Without further ado, here are the top 23 best Colleen Hoover books.
Best Colleen Hoover books
Hopeless (2012)
The Hopeless series consists of Hoover’s first successful novels, which some would argue are still her best books. Three books in the series follow Sky Davis and Dean Holder as they navigate their feelings for each other while dealing with traumatic pasts.
Hopeless introduces the life of 17-year-old Sky, who had a sheltered upbringing and meets Dean, a boy with a notorious reputation. From there, everything changes, and the novel explores a first love story that delves deep into the realm of past traumas and the strength required to overcome them.
Losing Hope (2013)
Considered a companion novel to Hopeless rather than a sequel, Losing Hope is told from Dean Holder's perspective. It provides a deeper understanding of his character and the secrets he carries.
This book is a must-read for those who enjoyed Hopeless and wanted more insights into Holder's inner turmoil, guilt, and journey toward redemption. Hoover’s skill at telling stories from different perspectives is one of many qualities that draws people to her style.
Finding Cinderella (2013)
A shorter novella forming part of the Hopeless series where the relationship between two side characters, Daniel and Six's unexpected love story, unfolds. It’s a short book, and while it’s not a must-read for the remaining two novels, it’s a fantastic companion book to the series.
All Your Perfects (2018)
This novel brings us into the life of Quinn and Graham, a couple whose marriage is on the brink of collapse due to life's disappointments and unmet expectations.
It explores the reality that not all love stories are perfect, navigating through the unspoken hardships of a marriage and how imperfections shape us.
If you're looking for a raw, realistic glance at love that delves into the trials and tribulations of marriage, All Your Perfects is a profound read.
Finding Perfect (2019)
This novella by Colleen Hoover provides a deeper dive into the lives of beloved characters Daniel and Six. Finding Perfect is a wonderful conclusion to this debut series.
First introduced earlier in the Hopeless series, the couple’s romance truly comes to life in this book. When the character’s casual relationship morphs into something more serious, they must confront their fears and insecurities to make things work.
Hoover's clever balance of humor, romance, and poignancy works magic here.
Slammed (2012)
The Slammed series is a trilogy of romance novels written by Colleen Hoover. The series explores the intense and emotional relationship between Layken Cohen and Will Cooper, tackling themes of love, loss, and resilience.
The first book follows 18-year-old Layken Cohen as she navigates the heartache of her father's death and a sudden move from Texas to Michigan. An unexpected romantic relationship with her mysterious neighbor, Will Cooper, leads her into the world of slam poetry.
This novel delicately handles life's highs and lows and delves into topics of emotional expression.
Point of Retreat (2012)
This book is the second novel in Colleen Hoover's Slammed series, again following the story of Layken Cohen and Will Cooper.
Point of Retreat explores their evolving relationship, filled with typical relationship struggles amplified by their roles as caretakers for their younger siblings.
Slam poetry offers a unique aspect to the plot, allowing characters to express their feelings unexpectedly. It’s about love, loss, resilience, and navigating the complex emotions of young love when you’re faced with real-world responsibilities.
This Girl (2013)
Another companion novel to Slammed, This Girl, revisits Lake and Will's love story from Will's perspective. The novel will appeal to fans of the original series, providing a fresh lens through which to view their relationship.
It Ends with Us (2016)
In this moving novel, Lily is caught in a love triangle between her old flame, Atlas Corrigan, and her current love, neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill romance – It Ends with Us explores a cycle of domestic abuse and is a must-read for those seeking a thought-provoking romance with salient themes. Darker and more sincere than some of Hoover’s novels.
It Starts with Us (2022)
This long-anticipated sequel to the #1 Sunday Times bestseller, It Ends with Us, It Starts with Us, delves back into the intricate lives of Lily, Atlas, and Ryle. Atlas is brought to the forefront, including insights into his reunion with Lily.
This book navigates the murky waters of past relationships, lingering love, and the challenges of moving on.
Maybe Someday (2014)
Maybe Someday is part of the two-part Maybe Someday series, which includes Maybe Not. This novel revolves around Sydney, who discovers her boyfriend's infidelity and seeks solace in Ridge, her intriguing neighbor.
The book beautifully captures the complications of relationships, morality, and the power of love.
If you're a fan of well-rounded characters forced to navigate ethical gray areas in the pursuit of happiness, this novel is an excellent exploration of those themes.
Maybe Not (2014)
Maybe Not is a novella spin-off for Maybe Someday. Here, we follow the love story of Warren and Bridgette.
It's a perfect pick for readers who loved Maybe Someday and craved more insights into the lives of these side characters. Hoover’s ability to weave subplots from side characters is sublime here. Maybe Someday and Maybe Not are more on the comedic side of Hoover’s writing spectrum.
Ugly Love (2014)
Ugly Love is one of Hoover’s most successful books. When Tate Collins and airline pilot Miles Archer stumble into each other's lives, they agree to a no-strings-attached relationship, but love refuses to adhere to rules.
Ugly Love is a visceral novel that focuses on love's less-glamorized side, capturing the heartache, sacrifice, and eventual acceptance that sometimes accompanies relationships. It reminds readers that not all love stories are fairy tales and is an excellent example of Hoover’s emotionally rugged and raw writing.
Confess (2015)
Auburn Reed doesn't expect her life to take an unexpected twist when she steps into a Dallas art studio. Enchanted by Owen, the artist behind a mysterious exhibit, she finds herself tangled in a web of secrets.
Confess will appeal to readers who appreciate mysterious love stories with beautifully flawed characters and will keep you on the edge of your seat as the truth unfolds. More suspenseful than some of Hoover’s novels.
November 9 (2015)
November 9 follows the lives of Fallon and Ben, who decide to meet just once a year. This unconventional premise is perfect for those who enjoy slow-burn romances and narratives questioning love's nature.
This novel will keep you hooked with each passing year in the characters' lives, making you ponder the fine line between reality and fiction in their love story—an interesting theme among Hoover’s novels.
Verity (2018)
Diverging from her usual style, Hoover delves into a romantic thriller with Verity. In this novel, the aspiring writer Lowen Ashleigh is given a chance to complete the remaining books in an established series.
As she goes through Verity Crawford’s notes, she uncovers dark secrets that blur the line between fiction and reality.
If you enjoy gripping thrillers with romantic elements that leave you questioning everything you've read, Verity is an edge-of-your-seat novel with more adrenaline-packed themes than some of Hoover’s books.
Regretting You (2019)
The novel presents the parallel narratives of mother and daughter Morgan and Clara, who are dealing with a tragic loss. As they grapple with grief and betrayal, they also discover love and forgiveness in unexpected places.
Regretting You is a heartfelt exploration of family, love, and how we cope with pain. Regretting You is a deeply moving read for readers who appreciate a strong emotional narrative intertwined with coming-of-age and personal growth themes—one of Hoover’s more emotionally raw works.
Heart Bones (2020)
Heart Bone’s story follows Beyah, a young woman with a harrowing past, and Samson, a privileged young man whose worlds collide one summer.
This novel beautifully explores love, grief, and the power of resilience. If you are a fan of compelling character growth and love stories set against personal struggles, Heart Bones is an excellent read and another one of Hoover’s touch novels.
Too Late (2016)
Too Late is a suspenseful love triangle that revolves around Carter (also known as Luke), Sloan, and Asa. It's a darker narrative compared to Hoover's other works, dealing with heavy themes like abuse and addiction.
If you're a fan of suspense and raw emotional narrative and don't mind exploring the darker side of relationships, Too Late could be your next read.
Without Merit (2017)
This novel centers on Merit, a girl from a uniquely dysfunctional family who believes she's the only sane one.
Without Merit is a poignant narrative about family secrets, mental health, and the danger of familial resentment. If you love books that delve into complex familial relationships and mental health struggles, Without Merit is a highly engaging read that will leave you with questions long after you've finished. A highly thought-provoking read.
Layla (2020)
In this paranormal romance, unique among Hoover’s work, Hoover introduces us to Leeds, Layla, and Willow. After an incident that leaves Layla scarred, they return to the bed and breakfast where they first met, only to encounter an odd presence.
Layla is a refreshing divergence from Hoover's usual romance-driven style if you're a Hoover fan and enjoy a sprinkle of supernatural elements in your romance novels.
An exciting take on Hoover’s style that received a somewhat mixed reception – but it’s definitely worth a read if you’re into paranormal fiction.
Reminders of Him (2022)
This emotionally charged novel by Hoover follows the journey of Kenna Rowan, freshly released from prison and longing to reconnect with her four-year-old daughter. Faced with the harsh reality of burnt bridges and suspicious loved ones, Kenna finds an unexpected ally in Ledger Ward, a local bar owner.
As their connection deepens, they navigate a high-risk path. If you're a reader who appreciates narratives exploring themes of redemption, second chances, and the resilience of the human spirit, Reminders of Him fits the bill.
Never Never (2023)
An immediate New York Times bestseller, Never Never is a collaboration between Colleen Hoover and Tarryn Fisher, is a riveting, romance-tinged mystery series.
Never Never centers around Charlie Wynwood and Silas Nash, best friends since childhood and lovers since adolescence, who one day find themselves complete strangers to each other, all memories of their shared past inexplicably erased.
As they piece together their past and work to uncover why they've forgotten each other, they start questioning if their relationship was meant to be.
As the mystery unravels, they face the terrifying reality that forgetting each other is daunting, but remembering their past could be even more so.
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