- I loved how the story began and liked Lily’s voice from the onset.
- Ryle and Lily share a slow-building relationship and I enjoyed the banter.
- Despite what you may think, there is no love triangle or cheating.
- Hoover used journal entries written by Lily to a celebrity as a young teen. I loved the references to a character they portrayed. It allowed me to understand Lily and her relationship to Atlas.
- I adored Atlas and his story.
- Hoover addresses a complex subject and calls out those who do not understand the whys and how. This happens every day and it is so easy to say, “I would do this” or “what is wrong with her?"
- I think Hoover made a strong case for Lily’s behavior, reasoning and reactions. While Lily makes mistakes, I understood her struggle and appreciated her growth. Ultimately, I am satisfied with the outcome.
- I appreciated the emotional support, and sound advice presented even if I wanted more. This is after all one of those “dirty-little-secrets”
- The author’s note was raw and honest giving substance to Lily and Ryle’s story.
- Oliver Song was perfect for this narration. I think she captured Lily. Her male voices were strong, and did not have that raspy hoarse tone we often hear from a female narrator.
Decaffeinated Aspects
- While we learn about Ryle’s past, I did not feel like it was explored enough. I could not grasp what connection the author was trying to make between events that take place and his past. I would have gone another more proven route.
- Lily’s BFF had an issue and despite loving the thread that followed it felt forced to answer a question. I just do not think it was the right one.
- While this story was about Lily, I would have liked to have had seen dialogue between Ryle and his family.
- I liked the ending but would have liked to hear professional counseling was involved. Although in reality, this is not always the case.
It Ends With Us contains a subject that may be a trigger for some readers. Warning: Clicking spoiler does share subject matter Deals with domestic abuse, violence against women, and shares a brutal non-sexual attack on a young man.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer