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It Ends with Us

Colleen hoover, ask litcharts ai: the answer to your questions.

Cycles of Abuse

It Ends with Us portrays abuse as cyclical, both individually and generationally. In its examination of the dating life and marriage of protagonist Lily and her partner, Ryle , the novel shows how a pattern of violence and forgiveness can repeat throughout a single relationship. For Lily and Ryle, this cycle begins with passionate feelings of love, belonging, and calm. However, Ryle often loses his temper, causing him to lash out violently and hurt Lily…

Naked Truths

Ryle and Lily ’s intimacy, connection, and passion in It Ends with Us is built upon an exchange of radical, uncensored truth. Honesty becomes a core value of Lily’s in adulthood because her early life was full of secrets and unacknowledged truths. Her mother chose to hide her father ’s abusive behavior behind closed doors, implicating Lily in protecting him. As a teenager, Lily’s father’s actions and her mother’s inactions made her feel stuck in…

Good and Evil

It Ends with Us is the story of Lily ’s journey to understand how to navigate a world in which no one is fully good or evil. When Lily and Ryle first meet on the roof, they begin exchanging “naked truths,” offering each other radically honest answers to challenging questions. Lily explains that her late father , whose funeral she just attended, abused her mother throughout Lily’s childhood. Her father always followed his violent episodes…

Chosen Family

In It Ends with Us , the trauma of growing up in an abusive household deeply affects Lily ’s perception of her worth and her sense of belonging. For this reason, she is overjoyed when Ryle ’s family embraces her with open arms. In Ryle, Lily finds more than a husband: she finds a best friend in Allysa , Ryle’s supportive younger sister; a brother in Marshall , Allysa’s carefree husband; and loving parents in…

“It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover Essay (Book Review)

It Ends with Us is a novel written by Colleen Hoover, an American writer who mainly writes stories in the young adult fiction and romance genres. The novel depicts the story of Lily Bloom and her complicated romantic life; namely, it connects her history of growing up in an abusive family and her current situation in an abusive relationship with her escape from abuse and eventual salvation. In this context, the book illustrates that preferring personal well-being is ultimately the right choice to make.

Despite an apparent romantic context, the general topic of the book is not romance but a never-ending cycle of domestic violence and abuse that can hide in its shadow. The novel’s intended audience is young adults, which derives from the protagonist’s age, the events and problems she has to face, and, most importantly, a lack of personal experience to deal with them at this particular point in time. Having this in mind, Hoover wrote this novel specifically to draw attention to the matter in the young adult genre. In particular, the book focuses on showcasing a woman’s emotional turmoil and indecisiveness in the face of having to choose between her well-being and feelings for the person she genuinely loves. As the events unfold, the author makes it clear that the former option is necessary in order to break the cycle of misery.

When interviewed regarding the book, Hoover confirmed the connection between the book’s events and her past experience. She commented that writing the novel proved to be a great challenge, as the fact that it is based on her father and mother’s relationships has undoubtedly left its toll. Hoover wanted to show how distorted, both morally and emotionally, domestic abuse can appear in the background of true romantic feelings and love. This way, the decision to put an end to violence becomes the only reasonable alternative.

The author supports her claims with the depth and richness of emotional distress the protagonist experiences throughout the book. It is important to note that Lily was able to find the answer to a dilemma by herself; however, she would have the resolve to stick with the decision only with the other character’s support. First of all, the main contributor to the protagonist’s decision-making is Atlas, Lily’s past romantic interest. It was he who highlighted the flaws and abusive patterns of her relationship with Ryle, the protagonist’s current romantic interest. Apart from that, Atlas treated Lily in a proper way, thus, serving as the source of relationship comparison for Lily to make. As stated in chapter 26, Lily realized the truth in his words and took them into account (Hoover, 2020). Therefore, he fostered Lily’s critical thinking and judgment, helping her to come to the conclusions she sought.

The conclusions drawn by the protagonist are eventually supported by other characters of the novel, namely Lily’s best friend, Alyssa, and Lily’s mother. The former’s perspective is strengthened by the fact of the familial bonds Alyssa has with Ryle. In this context, the fact that in chapter 29 Alyssa advises against staying in a relationship with Ryle despite him being her brother illustrates the weight behind her words (Hoover, 2020). In turn, the latter’s perspective is closely connected with the horror of the long-term endurance of the abuse. In chapter 32, Lily finally finds the resolve to consult with her mother regarding the abuse (Hoover, 2020). This makes the mother share how tolerant she had become toward it as time passed.

At the end of the story, Lily is shown to recover from the stress and the weight of her decision to choose herself over her love. The fact that the protagonist managed to cope with it and regain strength to move forward does not seem illogical or out of line, which speaks for the truth behind the author’s claims. Overall, the book proves to be convincing due to the ease with which the readers can associate themselves with its characters. Character development, motives, and reasoning – all fit into the big picture of the fight against the cursed abuse cycle and, thus, contribute to conveying the intended message. Apart from that, the evidence presented is logically reasonable, emotionally understandable, and relatable. The book’s potential flaws, such as the author’s personal interest and a strict female narration perspective, can be considered strictly subjective. The author’s bias, albeit present, does fit into the book’s framework and message. In turn, the female perspective might make the novel more challenging to read for the male audience; however, it does not make it harder to empathize with the characters and comprehend the novel’s idea.

It Ends with Us is a novel that manages to find the right way to translate a fictional experience into valuable thoughts and considerations. In other words, readers following Lily’s struggles and inability to decide between herself and her feelings can live through it as well, drawing their conclusions based on it. Home abuse is a topic of great importance that should not be regarded lightly. In this context, the author’s decision to aim it at the young audience to protect them from its horrors is correct and reasonably justified.

Hoover, C. (2020). It ends with us . Simon and Schuster.

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Home — Guides — It Ends with Us

It Ends with Us Study Guide

by Colleen Hoover

• Introduction
• All Plot summary
• Full Book Summary
• Plot Summary by Chapters
• All Characters
• Atlas Corrigan
• Ryle Kincaid
• Jenny Bloom
• Andrew Bloom
• Ellen DeGeneres
• Personal Strength
• All Literary Devices
• All Infographics
• Character Map
• Biography of author

It Ends with Us: Introduction

Exploring the complexities of love and resilience: an introduction to “It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover.

It Ends with Us: Plot Summary

Immerse yourself in Lily’s emotionally gripping story in Colleen Hoover’s It Ends With Us.

It Ends with Us: Characters

Meet the complex and compelling characters of It Ends With Us.

It Ends with Us: Themes

Explore the powerful themes of love, resilience, domestic abuse and personal transformation in Everything Ends With Us.

It Ends with Us: Literary Devices

Exploring the Powerful Themes and Literary Devices in “It Ends with Us”: An In-Depth Analysis.

It Ends with Us: Quotes

Captivating and Thought-Provoking Quotes from “It Ends with Us”: A Deeper Look into the Novel’s Meaning and Impact.

It Ends with Us: Infographics

Visualizing the themes and key elements of It Ends with Us through engaging infographics.

Delving into the life and works of Colleen Hoover: a closer look at the acclaimed author behind “It Ends with Us.”

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It Ends With Us by Summary, Review, Themes, Quotes and Characters

“It Ends With Us,” a romance novel by Colleen Hoover released in 2016, unravels the tale of a woman named Lily Bloom, set against the backdrop of the bustling city of Boston. 

Full Summary

The story begins on a rooftop where Lily, fresh from her college graduation, is processing her father’s funeral. 

There, she meets Ryle Kincaid, a charming resident surgeon. 

Despite their instant chemistry, their relationship expectations clash: Ryle seeks a casual fling, while Lily yearns for something deeper. Their paths diverge, only to cross again six months later when Lily hires Ryle’s sister, Allysa, for her newly opened flower shop.

As Lily and Ryle’s encounters increase, so does their attraction, leading Ryle to reconsider his stance on relationships. 

Amidst this blooming romance, Lily grapples with her past, revisiting teenage journals that capture her bond with Atlas Corrigan, a homeless boy she once helped. 

These memories, intertwined with witnessing her father’s abuse towards her mother, haunt Lily, making her quest for closure more complex.

The relationship between Lily and Ryle seems idyllic, growing stronger as their lives intertwine. 

However, the unexpected encounter with Atlas after nine years stirs old emotions in Lily. The narrative takes a darker turn when Ryle, in a fit of rage, assaults Lily. 

Confused and hurt, Lily confronts the harsh reality of her situation, drawing unsettling parallels with her mother’s past.

The story intensifies as Atlas, witnessing Lily’s injured eye and Ryle’s bandaged hand, confronts Lily about the abuse. 

Lily, in denial, defends Ryle. However, Atlas’s concern reignites old feelings, reminding Lily of their past closeness and her support during his struggles.

Despite planning to marry Ryle, Lily’s world shatters when Ryle’s jealousy leads to a violent episode, pushing Lily down the stairs. 

This incident forces Lily to reevaluate her relationship, recognizing the toxic patterns mirroring her mother’s abusive past. Torn between her feelings for Ryle and the need to protect herself, Lily grapples with difficult decisions.

The narrative reaches a climax as Lily, pregnant and distressed, seeks refuge with Atlas. 

In a heart-to-heart, Atlas reveals his past attempts to find her, opening the door to potential future romance. As Lily confronts the reality of her abusive relationship, she finds strength in the support of Allysa and her mother, who share their own experiences with abuse.

In the end, Lily’s journey culminates in the birth of her daughter and a resolve to break the cycle of domestic violence. Determined to provide a better life for her child, Lily makes the courageous decision to divorce Ryle. 

The novel closes with a hopeful note as Lily, now a strong, independent mother, opens herself to the possibility of a new beginning with Atlas.

At the heart of the story is Lily Bloom, a 23-year-old redhead with a spirit as vibrant as her hair. 

After graduating from college, she leaves her small town in Maine for Boston. Her life takes a dramatic turn following her father’s death, leading her to abandon a promising career in marketing . Driven by her passion for gardening, Lily opens a flower shop, a testament to her resilience and independence. 

Ryle Kincaid

Ryle, a charismatic and handsome neurosurgeon, grapples with his own demons. 

His life is shadowed by a tragic childhood incident that left him prone to uncontrollable rages. Despite his initial reluctance to form attachments, he falls deeply for Lily, but his love is marred by jealousy and insecurity, leading to a cycle of abuse. 

His journey through the novel is a painful path towards self-awareness and realization of the consequences of his actions.

Atlas Corrigan

Atlas, a figure from Lily’s past, re-emerges as a sign of hope and understanding. His difficult upbringing, marked by homelessness and deprivation, contrasts sharply with his generous spirit and unwavering support for Lily. 

Despite having little to offer materially, Atlas’s emotional strength and enduring love for Lily provide a stark counterpoint to Ryle’s volatile nature. 

His success as a restaurateur symbolizes his triumph over adversity.

Andrew Bloom

Andrew, Lily’s father, looms over the story as a figure of torment and contradiction. 

As Plethora’s former mayor, he maintained a façade of respectability while harboring a violent, abusive streak. 

His treatment of his wife and daughter, and his attack on Atlas, paint a picture of a deeply flawed man, whose occasional moments of remorse only highlight his complex nature.

Jenny Bloom

Jenny, Lily’s mother, embodies the quiet strength of enduring adversity. Her life, marred by her husband’s abuse, is a poignant narrative of survival and resilience. 

After Andrew’s death, Jenny’s move to Boston and her decision to start dating again signal a new chapter in her life, offering Lily a new perspective on strength and endurance.

Allysa Kincaid

Allysa, Lily’s vibrant and wealthy best friend, provides a contrast to Lily’s troubled life. As Ryle’s sister, her relationship with Lily is complicated yet unwaveringly supportive. 

Her journey through struggles with fertility, culminating in the birth of her daughter, adds a layer of joy and hope to the narrative.

I just loved it. 

Here’s the deal: I’m not even going to tease you with what this story is about. Why? 

Because it’s Colleen Hoover, people! 

You know you’re in for a treat that’s going to twist your heart in the best possible way. 

I dove into this book blind, and whoa, was I blown away! 

It’s like going on a mystery trip where you trust the pilot—here, our beloved author Colleen—completely. 

She’s going to take you places you didn’t even know you needed to go.

This book? 

Unputdownable. 

Seriously, try to put it down. I dare you. 

I started reading late one night, and next thing I knew, the sun was rising, and I was still glued to the pages, living and breathing Lily Bloom’s story. 

The emotional depth, the raw honesty—just wow.

Lily Bloom, our heroine, is a force to be reckoned with. I fell in love with her instantly, but by the end? 

I was ready to start a fan club in her honor. Her strength, resilience, and sheer willpower are something every reader, regardless of gender, needs to witness. She’s not just a character in a book; she’s a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of self-worth and bravery.

The narrative weaves a powerful message, so subtly at first, you might miss it. 

But as the story unfolds, you realize you’re not just reading a book—you’re getting a lesson in life, love, and the hard choices one sometimes has to make. It’s a raw, honest look at issues so many face yet are often afraid to talk about.

And let’s clear the air about the ‘ love triangle ‘ thing. 

If you think that’s what this is about, think again. It’s so much deeper, so much more profound than that. Trust Colleen on this journey; she’s the captain of this ship, and she knows exactly where she’s taking us.

As a die-hard romance reader, I was thrilled by how refreshing this book felt. 

It steps outside the typical romance boundaries, delving deeper, making you think, feel, and perhaps even change a little. 

It’s the kind of story I wish filled my shelves—not the exact plot, but books that dare to be different, that challenge norms and make you look at the world in a new light.

The title? 

Oh, just wait until you see how it fits into the story. I had my ‘aha’ moment and let out a cheer. It’s so apt, so perfect, it’s almost poetic.

I re-read this book just to write this review, and let me tell you, it’s like reading two different stories. The layers, the nuances—you catch so much more the second time around. It’s a book that keeps on giving.

And let’s talk movie potential—Hollywood, are you listening? 

This book screams to be on the big screen. I could visualize every scene, every emotion. It’s not just Lily’s story; it’s a story that resonates on a universal level, and it deserves to be shared far and wide.

I’ve refrained from quoting anything because, honestly, you need to experience every word fresh, without any spoilers. 

Dive into this book blindfolded, and let it sweep you off your feet.

1. The Cycle of Domestic Abuse

“It Ends With Us” delves deeply into the complexities and nuances of domestic abuse. 

Through Lily’s experiences, both as a child witnessing her mother’s suffering and as an adult enduring her own turmoil, the novel explores how abuse can become a vicious cycle. 

The narrative thoughtfully illustrates how victims of abuse often find themselves in similar situations as their abusers or in relationships that mirror the abuse they’ve seen or experienced in the past. 

This theme is not just a backdrop but a critical element of the story, as it shapes the characters’ decisions and the overall arc of the narrative. 

The book does not shy away from the painful realities of abuse, including the emotional confusion, the struggle to break free, and the societal pressures that often keep victims trapped in these cycles.

2. Complex Human Relationships

Hoover’s novel intricately portrays the complexities inherent in human relationships. 

It shows how love, attraction, and emotional connections are multifaceted and often contradictory. The relationship between Lily and Ryle, for instance, is not just a straightforward romance but is laden with layers of conflict, desire, and misunderstanding. 

Similarly, Lily’s bond with Atlas highlights the interplay of past and present emotions, showcasing how past experiences and relationships continue to influence the present. 

The book adeptly captures the dilemma of the heart in situations where love is entangled with hurt and betrayal. 

This theme reinforces the idea that human relationships are complex and often unpredictable, shaped by a myriad of factors beyond just affection.

3. The Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment

Central to the novel is Lily’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment. 

Beginning as a character haunted by her past and entangled in an abusive relationship, Lily gradually evolves into a stronger, more independent individual. 

Her journey is marked by introspection, resilience, and the courage to confront uncomfortable truths about her life and relationships. 

The novel emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in breaking free from destructive patterns. Lily’s growth is depicted not just in her decision to leave Ryle but also in her ability to open herself to new possibilities and make choices that prioritize her well-being and that of her child. 

This theme resonates deeply, portraying the challenging yet empowering path towards self-liberation and healing.

Final Thoughts

“It Ends With Us” is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking novel that tackles the complex realities of abusive relationships with sensitivity and realism. 

Colleen Hoover skillfully weaves a narrative that is not only a romance but also a perfect exploration of the cycles of abuse and the courage it takes to break them. 

This book not only entertains but also educates, offering insights into the difficult decisions and internal conflicts faced by those trapped in abusive situations. 

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It Ends With Us Themes & Motifs

Breaking the Cycle of Abuse

Abuse is a cycle that is difficult, though not impossible, to break. In the novel It Ends With Us, Lily chooses to break the cycle of abuse because she does not want her newborn daughter to live through what she did with her parents abusive marriage.

As a child, Lily was devastated when her mother did not leave her father even after her father hurt Lily. In Lily’s own relationship, she is shocked when Ryle hurts her for the first time and wonders how she came to be in that position. It is only when Lily discovers she is pregnant with a child of her own that she realizes she has to be the one to have the strength to break the cycle.

Lily had always believed that if her father ever hurt Lily that her mother would leave him. Lily...

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It Ends With Us

64 pages • 2 hours read

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

Chapters 5-8

Chapters 9-12

Chapters 13-16

Chapters 17-20

Chapters 21-24

Chapters 25-28

Chapters 29-32

Chapter 32-Epilogue

Character Analysis

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Part of It Ends With Us unfolds through Lily’s entries, which are presented for the reader. What is the effect of framing Lily’s past in this way?

What is the role of Lily’s body in It Ends With Us ? How do Atlas and Ryle physically relate to Lily?

In what ways does the novel subvert traditional tropes of the romance genre?

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It Ends With Us First Look Proves Sparks Are Flying Between Blake Lively and Brandon Sklenar

Before it ends with us debuts in theaters, fans are getting a glimpse at what they can expect from the film, starring blake lively (lily), brandon sklenar (atlas) and justin baldoni (ryle)..

The countdown to  It Ends With Us starts now.

After some adjustments on the calendar , the highly anticipated film adaptation of Colleen Hoover 's novel is officially coming to movie theaters on August 9, Sony Pictures confirmed , promising it to be the "movie event of the summer."

To hold fans over for the next three months, a series of first look photos from the movie were released on April 30, featuring stars Blake Lively  (Lily), Brandon Sklenar  (Atlas) and Justin Baldoni  (Ryle).

According to a synopsis of the film, it tells the story of "a woman who overcomes a traumatic childhood to embark on a new life in Boston and chase a lifelong dream of opening her own business."

"A chance meeting with charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid sparks an intense connection, but as the two fall deeply in love, Lily begins to see sides of Ryle that remind her of her parents' relationship," the summary continues. "When Lily's first love, Atlas Corrigan, suddenly reenters her life, her relationship with Ryle is upended, and Lily realizes she must learn to rely on her own strength to make an impossible choice for her future."

One of the preview photos shows a smiling Lily (Blake) reuniting with Atlas (Brandon), who is now a successful chef. 

Fans also get a glimpse of Lily's relationship with Ryle, in happier times, including a karaoke outing. Plus, Lily can be seen sharing a laugh with Ryle's sister, Alyssa ( Jenny Slate ) at their flower shop.

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This first look at the movie comes nearly a year after filming first began, making headlines for everything from the casting choices to set photos.

After all, it was when paparazzi pics surfaced in May 2023 that criticism began to emerge online, specifically over Blake's wardrobe.  

The costume backlash became so big that the author spoke out against the comments.

"I don't remember describing outfits at all," Colleen told Today 's Jenna Bush Hager in June 2023. "I don't care what they have on. In my head, it's about the conversation they're having and the story. It's the same way in the movie."

Besides, as Colleen pointed out, the ongoing conversation surrounding the film proves that fans really care.

"You've seen a couple of outfits that are completely out of context," she noted. "I'm not worried about it."

To see all of the first look pics from It Ends With Us , plus a few behind the scenes snaps, keep scrolling...

High School Reunion

Lily ( Blake Lively ) is all smiles as she chats with her first love Atlas ( Brandon Sklenar ).

Rooftop Meeting

It's on a Boston rooftop that Lily first meets Ryle ( Justin Baldoni ).

Karaoke Date

In happier times, Lily and Ryle enjoy a fun night out together.

Before meeting Ryle, Lily is pals with his sister, Alyssa ( Jenny Slate ).

Actor and Director

In addition to starring in the film, Justin is also directs It Ends With Us .

Movie Moment

Ryle and Lily, whose relationship takes an unexpected and heartbreaking turn, share an emotional moment together.

Behind the Scenes Photos

Justin watches behind the lens in this set photo.

Colleen Hoover , author of the best-selling book, smiles alongside Justin.

Khloe Kardashian Reacts to Kim Kardashian’s Tight Corset Met Gala Look

The deeply disturbing true story behind baby reindeer.

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Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Share Emotional First Look at It Ends with Us (Exclusive)

'It Ends with Us' is the first Colleen Hoover book adaptation, in theaters Aug. 9

Nicole Rivelli

Blake Lively is at the center of an emotional new romantic drama based on one of author Colleen Hoover's popular novels .

Lively stars as Lily Bloom in It Ends with Us , an adaptation of Hoover's 2016 book that went so viral on TikTok that it inspired a bestselling sequel in 2022.

"Lily resonated with an enormous amount of people, as the success of the book made clear," Lively, 36, tells PEOPLE. "Stepping into a character who’s had such a meaningful impact is an honor to take on."

"I loved Lily," she adds. "And I hope that love is felt by those who care about her like I do, and also those who are getting to know her for the first time in this film.”

Starring alongside Lively, as the charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid, is Justin Baldoni , who also directed the film.

Lily, a woman setting out to open her own business in Boston, has a chance meeting with Ryle, getting swept away into an intense relationship.

But, a synopsis teases, "as the two fall deeply in love, Lily begins to see sides of Ryle that remind her of her parents’ relationship" and the traumatic childhood she overcame.

Atlas Corrigan, Lily's first love, is played by actor Brandon Sklenar. When Atlas "suddenly reenters her life, her relationship with Ryle is upended, and Lily realizes she must learn to rely on her own strength to make an impossible choice for her future," the synopsis adds.

Hoover tells PEOPLE that "seeing these characters come to life on the big screen is a dream come true."

"The movie experience adds another layer to the connection readers already have with the characters," she says. "The power of visual storytelling is undeniable, and it can evoke even stronger emotions and empathy from the audience by bringing a sense of immediacy and intensity to the story. I definitely felt so much while watching the adaptation."

Jojo Whilden

Baldoni, 40, has been working on the project for nearly five years, currently putting the finishing touches on it before the August debut. He tells PEOPLE the film "really comes from the heart and from the depth of my soul."

Through handling his complicated role as Ryle, Baldoni says he learned more about himself in the process. "I had to dig up a lot of stuff, and I found parts of me that I didn't know existed," he says.

"In some way, playing Ryle was actually very healing to me as Justin. There was parts of me as Justin that I thought that I had maybe worked on and healed that I realized I hadn't," says Baldoni, who previously starred on Jane the Virgin and directed the 2019 film Five Feet Apart .

He adds, "Getting to know this character and his depth and his love and his joy and his darkness, I was actually able to work on those parts of myself."

As for Lively as Lily, Baldoni describes her as "strong, funny and intelligent — all the things you want from female heroine." He adds of the actress, "There wasn't a part of this production that she didn't touch and have influence on. And everything she put her hands on and her mind to, she made better."

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

The cast of It Ends with Us , written for the screen by Christy Hall, also includes Jenny Slate as Ryle's sister Allysa, Hasan Minhaj as Allysa's husband Marshall, and Amy Morton as Lily's mother Jenny.

Author Hoover says Baldoni and the entire cast and crew "maintained the essence of this book in a delicate and beautiful way."

"The readers are the reason this book has been adapted, and I appreciate how much Justin wants to make sure those readers get the movie they deserve," says Hoover. "I’m confident they’ll be happy with what has been created."

It Ends with Us is in theaters Aug. 9.

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Check Out These New Photos From 'It Ends With Us' Movie

C olleen Hoover fans, listen up! There's a new update on the film adaptation of her bestselling book, It Ends With Us, that you don't want to miss. Following news of the film's release being delayed, Sony has released official first-look photos of the romantic drama! The glimpses of the long-awaited movie based on the book feature main cast members , Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, as well as Jenny Slate and Brandon Sklenar. But before we get into that, here's a rundown on the literary lore, in case you missed it.

The romance novel was released in 2016 and spread like wildfire across social media during the pandemic, largely due to #BookTok, TikTok's reading community. Since then, It Ends With Us acquired the top spot on the New York Times best sellers list in 2021, where it remained for over 90 weeks, according to Deadline .

The feature film of the same name follows Lily, a young woman seeking a new beginning after college. Her life takes a turn when she falls for Ryle, a neurosurgeon, and then another turn when she reconnects with her teenage sweetheart, Atlas. As Lily delves deeper, she uncovers Ryle's troubled history, adding a layer of complexity to their romance.

When does 'It Ends With Us' premiere?

After a long string of pushbacks and filming delays, It Ends With Us finally has an official release date. The film is set to premiere on August 9, 2024 , six months after it was initially slated to be released, according to People .

Like Lily's love life, the road to the highly anticipated movie's release has been full of twists and turns. While Justin Baldoni's production company, Wayfarer Studios, optioned the book in 2019, cast announcements weren't confirmed until January 2023. Filming began shortly after in May 2023, leading to the initial release date of February 9, 2024. However, because production was halted, the premiere was pushed back to June 21, and most recently, the later summer date.

What is 'It Ends With Us' about?

It Ends With Us is a romantic drama centering on Lily Bloom as she navigates the complexities of love, heartbreak, and resilience. Raised in an abusive home, Lily vows to never repeat her mother's mistakes. However, when she meets the charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid, Lily's resolve is tested. As their relationship deepens, Lily must confront painful truths about love and the cycle of abuse. Things get even more complicated when she reconnects with her first love, Atlas Corrigan, further challenging her relationship with Ryle.

The film’s official synopsis reads, "Lily Bloom thinks she's found the love of her life in Ryle Kincaid. However, after a troubling incident of abuse reminds her of her dark past, she must decide if love alone can carry her marriage through. Further complicating things is the return of her first love into her life: a man who she took in many years prior when he was homeless.”

In a cast announcement that Colleen posted on Instagram in early 2023, she revealed that the novel was "loosely inspired" by her childhood when her mother removed them from a "scary situation."

Who is in the 'It Ends With Us' cast?

The It Ends With Us cast boasts so many big names we don't know where to begin! Starting with the main characters, you can expect to see Blake Lively from the hit TV show Gossip Girl and movies like The Age of Adaline and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants as Lily Bloom.

Starring alongside Blake as Lily's new love interest Ryle Kincaid, is Justin Baldoni, who starred in The CW's Jane the Virgin as heartthrob Rafael Solano. Not only is Justin taking on the role of brooding neurosurgeon in the film, but he's also executive producing and directing it from a screenplay by writer-producer Christy Hall.

Lily's first love, Atlas Corrigan, will be played by none other than Brandon Sklenar! Yellowstone fans may know him as Spencer Dutton from the spinoff series 1923 . As for the younger versions of his and Blake's characters, Alex Neustaedter stars as young Atlas, and Isabela Ferrer portrays young Lily.

The star-studded lineup doesn't end there! Actress Jenny Slate joins the cast as Ryle's sister, Allyssa Kincaid, starring alongside award-winning comedian Hasan Minhaj as her husband, Marshall.

Is there a trailer for 'It Ends With Us'?

An official trailer for the movie is yet to be released, but that doesn't mean that filming hasn't started. Blake, Justin, and Brandon have been spotted in behind-the-scenes photos around New Jersey since filming began in May 2023. The Gossip Girl star has been captured on numerous occasions with Lily's signature flowing red hair, getting fans excited for what's to come.

And a trailer for the movie is bound to drop as we get closer to the anticipated August 9 release date, so keep your eyes peeled!

It Ends With Us Metaphors and Similes

By colleen hoover.

These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make your own.

Written by Allan Porree

Spellbinding Voice (metaphor)

About Ryle, Lily asserts, "His voice is a drug in itself." This phrase is used to describe the protagonist's reaction to the mysterious man's voice. In this situation, the metaphor mentions that Lily finds his voice so engaging and captivating that it has a drug-like effect on her. Consequently, it illustrates the intensity of Lily's experience, as she finds herself drawn to the man against her better judgment. Therefore, the man's voice has a powerful effect on her and is something that she cannot easily resist. The statement affirms that the voice has an almost hypnotic effect on her, where it is almost as if she is under the influence of a drug. Thus, it underlines the protagonist's vulnerability in this situation, as she is unable to resist the man's charms.

Tender Kiss (simile)

Ryle’s kiss is described as "warm pressure," and further in the passage as "like silk," depicting the sensation of his lips as smooth and comforting, like a warm embrace. The protagonist illustrates the intimacy and tenderness of their kiss. Thereby, affirms that though their physical attraction to each other is strong, there is also a deeper emotional connection and understanding between them. The comparison of his kiss being like silk symbolizes the softness of their relationship and the overwhelming emotion they both feel in the moment. It highlights their connection and the importance of their shared experience.

Ghost (simile)

In the narration, Lily says that Atlas is "standing at the end of the hallway like a ghost straight out of the past." This comparison compares Atlas to a ghost indicating that for Lily, Atlas is an apparition from her past, a figure that she hadn't seen in years and had likely thought about often. Consequently, exudes the surprise and shock Lily feels upon seeing Atlas after such a long time. It also mentions that Atlas is somehow removed from reality and outside of Lily's life, as ghosts are often associated with the supernatural and the unknown. The simile captures the intensity of the moment and the emotions that Lily is experiencing.

Time Heals (metaphor)

In the narrative, the metaphor of “Time can definitely heal all wounds" is used to describe the difficult process of ending the relationship with Atlas. This metaphor indicates that although the ending is excruciating, with enough time the pain will eventually fade away and be replaced with happiness. This is further reinforced by Lily's mother's supportive message, which shows that, despite her current situation, Lily has still achieved great things and has a bright future ahead of her. The metaphor of time healing all wounds reminds Lily that, although the division is agonizing, eventually she will be able to heal and move forward with her life.

Reward (simile)

Ryle compares being in a relationship to a reward, saying that it does not feel like a responsibility but rather something to be treasured and appreciated. He states that he will "fall asleep wondering what [he] did to deserve it" which emphasizes the idea of it being a reward. This metaphor is a representation of how Ryle views his relationship with Lily and how it is something to be cherished. He is grateful for the time they have spent together and the connection they have formed, and he understands that it is a privilege to have such a meaningful bond. In that, relationships take effort and dedication, but the reward of being able to share a life with someone is worth the hard work.

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It Ends With Us Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for It Ends With Us is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Study Guide for It Ends With Us

It Ends With Us study guide contains a biography of Colleen Hoover, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About It Ends With Us
• It Ends With Us Summary
• Character List

Why Tom Holland Isn’t With Zendaya at the 2024 Met Gala

Prior to the red carpet starting, Holland shared an Instagram Story of himself with a golf injury, a signal he wasn’t about to walk the red carpet with his girlfriend in New York:

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Holland’s absence from the event isn’t entirely surprising. Since finishing press for their Spider-Man films in December 2021, Holland and Zendaya have not walked any red carpets together. They are publicly supportive of each other, but keep the majority of their relationship private.

Moreover, Holland had work in London that kept him from the New York City event.

The actor is a week out from shows beginning for the London production of Romeo & Juliet , which runs from May 11 to August 3. He is playing the titular role of Romeo in the highly anticipated production.

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Zendaya spoke about Holland’s project in early April, telling Vogue , “[I] could not be more proud. I’m going to try to see as many shows as I possibly can.”

She chose not to talk in detail about their life together. This is par for the course, as Zendaya spoke to ELLE in her September 2023 interview about how she protects her and Holland’s privacy while acknowledging the public’s interest in them.

“Parts of my life, I accept, are going to be public,” she said. “I can’t not be a person and live my life and love the person I love. But also, I do have control over what I choose to share. It’s about protecting the peace and letting things be your own but also not being afraid to exist. You can’t hide. That’s not fun, either. I am navigating it more than ever now.”

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