book review on verity

‘Verity’ review: This horror romance is a last ditch attempt at originality

It is bold to say, but after reading “Verity,” I feel no inclination to read another Colleen Hoover book again.

Describing the plot of this book to friends brought myself to the brink of insanity. It is comparable to a fever dream in which nothing makes sense, and the only frightening aspect is that your mind came up with it. Not only is the plot entirely implausible, but it is close to juvenile in construction. There are plot lines present that are completely unnecessary, character motivations that do not line up and just plain cringeworthy lines. The one thing we can praise Colleen for is creativity with this one.

The premise of the book starts with Lowen, a budding author who writes thriller novels. She is approached by an agent who then asks her to co-write the rest of an unfinished series written originally by Verity Crawford. However, instead of simply finding Verity’s old notes and outlines, Lowen discovers a manuscript for Verity’s autobiography. Things progress from there.

I want to preface my full review with the disclaimer that prior to reading this book, I liked Colleen Hoover as an author. Her book “It Ends with Us” is positively leagues above “Verity,” therefore my expectations going into this book were high. I thought fondly of Colleen’s writing, and was anything but a skeptic.

First and foremost, I must address the main character of “Verity” — Lowen. In short, she was woefully underdeveloped. Not only is her moral compass askew for an almost insubstantial reason, but it is clear most of her decisions are written to solely progress the plot.

Reading Lowen’s decision-making process felt like watching a terrible horror movie and screaming at the TV — “Stop! Don’t go in there!” It was with baited breath that I continued to read to simply uncover the underlying reasons for what made Lowen act the way she did.

To my own disappointment however, we never get there. For essentially the entire first half of the book, we are strung along in a chase to figure out what life-altering tragedy occurred to Lowen. This event is talked up to be almost so horrific that it has undoubtedly transformed our main character. Only, it is beyond dissatisfying. Upon discovering the reason I audibly said, “That’s it?” while reading.

To sum up, there was nothing below the surface of Lowen. It just so turned out that she was a bad character paired with bad writing.

Moreover, we have to talk about the subpar love interest of “Verity” — Jeremy. I guess I cannot blame Colleen for putting a mediocre woman with a below average man. The relationship that Jeremy presents is full of distrust blanketed by lust. Again, we are presented with the same problem of shallowness as before. There is almost an odd fixation on Jeremy as a character, and that may have been an intentional choice. However, it completely misses the mark.

This borderline obsessiveness comes off as arbitrary, seeing as Jeremy is written as a tolerable character at best. I did not think it could be done, but Jeremy quite possibly had less substance than Lowen.

Moving on, it is important that I acknowledge how much of the plot is simply just filler. For example, there are conflicts that arise due to the careless mistakes of the characters, however these issues only serve one purpose — To fill pages.

Additionally, there are multiple scenes within the book that provide no relevant information in the slightest. These scenes do not supply background information nor do they give opportunity for character development.

Overall, I gave this book two out of five stars. To be completely candid, the writing reads like something you could find on Wattpad with its nonsensical twists. The plot definitely took me by surprise purely because it is outrageous. It seems the common theme within “Verity” is that you can be sure you will be left with many questions — one of them being “What did I just read?”

Michelle Davis

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Verity (Review, Book Summary & Spoilers)

By colleen hoover.

Book review, full book summary and synopsis for Verity by Colleen Hoover, a thriller-slash-romance novel about a write who is offered a dream job.

In Verity , Lowen Ashleigh is a writer who's offered the opportunity to complete the last three novels of a bestselling book series because the author, Verity Crawford, is unable to do so for medical reasons.

When Lowen moves into the Crawford house to go over Verity's notes, Lowen sees that Verity has been left largely unresponsive after a car accident. She also learns that Verity's two twin daughters died in the months preceding Verity's accident.

Lowen soon finds her self attracted to Jeremy, Verity's husband, and she also discovers an autobiographical manuscript by Verity, which contains dark secrets about Verity's life.

(The Full Plot Summary is also available, below)

Full Plot Summary

Lowen Ashleigh is offered a job completing the last three novels of a popular book series. The original author, Verity Crawford , was in an accident a short while ago and is now alive, but unresponsive. The accident happened soon after the deaths of Verity's two twin daughters.

Lowen moves into the Crawford house to go over Verity's notes, where Verity is being cared for by her nurse, April . Verity's husband, Jeremy , and young son Crew also live there. Lowen quickly finds herself attracted to and falling for Jeremy. Strange occurrences also make Lowen suspect that Verity is faking her medical condition.

Lowen starts to read Verity's book series called The Noble Virtues , which are all written from an antagonist's point of view. In Verity's office, Lowen also discovers an autobiographical manuscript that Verity wrote that reveals Verity's dark nature.

In the manuscript, Verity describes resenting her daughters because Jeremy loves them more than her. Verity also admits to loving one of her daughters ( Chastin ) more than the other ( Harper ), and she has a dream that Harper will someday kill Chastin.

When Chastin is 8, she ends up dead from her peanut allergy. Chastin and Harper had been at a sleepover together when it happened. Verity then admits to murdering Harper six months later. She purposely took Crew and Harper out on a canoe, caused it to capsize and then only saved Crew.

Lowen is initially unsure whether to tell Jeremy about the manuscript, knowing it will only hurt him more. By now, she and Jeremy are sleeping together, and discussing a possible future together. However, when Lowen thinks she sees Verity move, she tells Jeremy in order to protect him and Crew.

Jeremy confronts Verity who finally admits to faking it. Jeremy then attacks Verity, and Lowen at first tells him to stop, but then she advises him to make it look like an accident. Verity is killed.

Months later, Lowen is pregnant and they are all living in a new house. The old house is due to be sold off. As they clean out the last of the stuff, Lowen discovers a letter that Verity wrote after her accident.

The letter describes how Verity wrote the manuscript as a writing exercise to practice her antagonistic point of view that she uses for her novels. She also writes about how Jeremy knew about the manuscript and had forced her into the "accident" because of it.

Afterwards, Lowen destroys the letter. However, the book ends with her being unsure as to whether the letter was true or just another manipulation from Verity.

For more detail, see the full Chapter-by-Chapter Summary .

If this summary was useful to you, please consider supporting this site by leaving a tip ( $2 , $3 , or $5 ) or joining the Patreon !

Book Review

• Plenty of suspense
• Page-turner
• Solid plot twist
• Very graphic (may be a pro or con for you)
• Somewhat implausible ending, relies on characters acting in contrived ways

Verity by Colleen Hoover was published a few years ago, but has continued to be pretty popular since then. Hoover is primarily known for her romance and YA novels, but Verity is more of a thriller-mystery romance.

In Verity , Lowen Ashley is a writer who is hired to write the last three novels in a bestselling book series because the author, Verity Crawford, is unable to do so herself. However, in the process of looking over Verity’s notes about the books, Lowen discovers an autobiographical manuscript written by Verity that reveals dark secrets about Verity’s life.

Reading this book, I wouldn’t have guessed that Hoover was someone who doesn’t typically write thrillers. It’s dark and graphic and very suspenseful. She definitely nails the thriller atmosphere and the page-turner pacing.

I also thought the major plot twist in it was fairly clever, though I don’t want to spoil anything about it here (see the Spoiler-ish Thoughts section for details). However, the ending seems a little implausible and relies on characters acting in contrived ways in order to make it work.

Also, this book isn’t as twisty as some mystery-thrillers. Instead, the romance aspect of it takes precedence for much of it, with our protagonist falling for Verity’s husband, Jeremy Crawford.

It’s important to mention that this book is aggressively graphic when it comes to sex and there’s quite a bit of it. Like, a lot. This is by far the most graphic book I’ve ever read. Obviously, whether or not that something that interests you is highly subjective.

Read it or Skip it?

Honestly, if you like the idea of a mystery-thriller romance novel, then this book is probably a pretty solid iteration of that type of book, especially if you are someone who would enjoy the creepy and suspenseful atmosphere of the book.

I went into Verity knowing I probably wasn’t the right reader for this book — I don’t really like romance novels — and I thought it was better than I expected it to be. I don’t plan on revisiting this author simply because I’m just not all that interested in the types of books she writes, but I was happy to sate my curiosity.

Have you read Verity? What did you think? See Verity on Amazon.

Spoiler-ish Thoughts

SPOILERS START HERE. You’ve been warned.

Okay, let’s talk about the final twist. The whole time, I knew there was clearly something about either Lowen’s narration or Verity’s manuscript that was false, I just couldn’t figure out what it was or why.

When it’s finally revealed that Verity was going essentially a writing exercise, I though that was pretty clever, especially since Hoover makes a point to keep reminding us that Verity writes in the voice of an antagonist and how that’s such an important component of her books.

The one thing that didn’t make sense though was why Jeremy flips out when he re-reads that manuscript or why he wouldn’t mention to Lowen that he’d seen it before? Am I missing something here? Why does he bother pretending to read the manuscript instead of just saying that he’s already read it?

Also the whole thing with Verity faking a her medical condition just seems extremely unlikely. And it feels very contrived that over the course of many months she was never able to find an opportunity to tell Jeremy that the manuscript was just a writing exercise.

Book Excerpt

Read the first pages of Verity

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Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish.

Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity's notes and outlines, hoping to find enough material to get her started. What Lowen doesn't expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read. Page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity's recollection of what really happened the day her daughter died.

Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy, knowing its contents would devastate the already grieving father. But as Lowen's feelings for Jeremy begin to intensify, she recognizes all the ways she could benefit if he were to read his wife's words. After all, no matter how devoted Jeremy is to his injured wife, a truth this horrifying would make it impossible for him to continue to love her.

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You are always honest, I really appreciate that. Along with your honesty you are fair; and if you were reviewing my book I would be grateful for that aspect.

I thought the twist at the end would have been something like Jeremy actually the one the killed the girls, and that Verity found out so Jeremy tried to kill her but failed. So then he drugged her because he couldn’t try to kill her again so soon, and sometimes she had periods of lucidity, which is when Lowen saw her. I thought Jeremy wrote the manuscript to cover his tracks, hire a ghost writer to hopefully find it, so he could then kill her. I thought the first person they tried to hire either got spooked off, or didn’t find the manuscript, so they fired her. Then hired Lowen. When she found the manuscript, read it, it would have only been a matter of time till she told him. Then he could carry out the killing Verity to make sure she wouldn’t tell what actually happened to the girls. I’m a period of lucid, her letter could have been saying that Jeremy was behind it the whole time and kept poisoning her and Lowen only found out after the fact. Also, Lowen was not innocent in all of this either. Remember how she made sure she got pregnant?

This is a better ending than in the actual book!

great summary and analysis as usual.

‘She also learns that Verity’s two twin daughters died in the months preceding Verity’s accident’ two twin daughters — twins implies two

I also suspect that Verity is somehow really that type which Lowen has called her. Its because you remember that when crew shouted from upstairs and Lowen went to see what happen, there when she asked Crew what cut his palm(or maybe something else, I don’t remember clearly), he told that verity warn him not to touch her knife. Later in front of Jeremy he totally changed the cause even when Lowen was telling about the knife.

– Entertainment Analysis and Reviews

“Verity” by Colleen Hoover: A Gripping Psychological Thriller

“Colleen Hoover’s ‘Verity’ is a psychological thriller that is both disturbing and captivating. The novel follows the story of Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer who is hired to complete the remaining books in a popular series after the original author, Verity Crawford, is left unable to finish them due to a car accident. As Lowen delves deeper into Verity’s notes and research, she discovers a dark and twisted world that challenges her perception of reality.

The novel explores several themes such as betrayal, mental illness, obsession, manipulation, and the power of storytelling. It also employs a variety of narrative techniques to build tension and create an atmosphere of suspense. ‘Verity’ has received critical acclaim for its gripping plot and well-drawn characters. However, it has also sparked controversy due to its graphic content and depictions of violence.

In this article, we will delve deeper into the world of ‘Verity’ by examining its themes, motifs, and narrative techniques. We will also explore the reception and criticism that the novel has received, as well as its potential impact and implications for the future of the psychological thriller genre. Ultimately, we hope to shed light on why ‘Verity’ is worth reading and discussing in greater detail.”

Verity book summary

Themes and meaning in “verity” by colleen hoover:, reception of “verity” by colleen hoover, analysis of verity, verity ending explained.

Verity tells the story of Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer who is hired to complete the bestselling book series of Verity Crawford, a well-known author who has been left unable to finish the series after a car accident. Lowen is introduced to the Crawford family, where she discovers a manuscript that Verity has written detailing her darkest thoughts and secrets. As Lowen reads through the manuscript, she realizes that there is more to Verity’s life than what she had previously thought.

The novel is set in an isolated mansion in the countryside of Vermont and explores the complicated relationships between Lowen, Jeremy Crawford, and Verity. Throughout the story, the reader is exposed to the different layers of secrets, lies, and manipulations that the characters keep hidden from each other. As the plot unfolds, the tension rises, and the reader is left wondering what will happen next.

Some key characters in the novel include:

• Lowen Ashleigh: A struggling writer who is hired to complete the bestselling book series of Verity Crawford.
• Verity Crawford: A well-known author who has been left unable to finish the series after a car accident.
• Jeremy Crawford: Verity’s husband and a successful author himself.

Verity is a novel that explores several complex themes and motifs. These include:

• Betrayal: Betrayal is a central theme in Verity. Throughout the novel, the characters experience various forms of betrayal, including lies, deceit, and infidelity. The novel highlights the consequences of betrayal and how it can impact relationships.
• Mental illness: Mental illness is another significant theme in Verity. The character of Verity suffers from severe mental illness, and the novel portrays the consequences of not seeking help for mental health issues. The book raises awareness about the importance of mental health care and treatment.
• Obsession: Obsession is another key theme in Verity. The novel explores how obsession can lead to destructive behavior and how it can cloud one’s judgment. The character of Verity is obsessed with her husband Jeremy, and this obsession drives her to do unspeakable things.
• Writing and storytelling: Writing and storytelling are essential motifs in Verity. The novel explores the power of storytelling and how it can be used to manipulate and deceive others. It also highlights the importance of writing as a means of expression and healing.
• Manipulation: Manipulation is a pervasive theme in Verity. The novel explores how people can use manipulation to get what they want and how it can lead to disastrous consequences. It also examines the consequences of being manipulated and the impact it can have on one’s mental health.

In summary, Verity is a novel that explores complex themes and motifs that are relevant to our lives. Through its exploration of betrayal, mental illness, obsession, writing and storytelling, and manipulation, the novel provides a thought-provoking and engaging reading experience.

“Verity has received critical acclaim since its publication in 2018. Here are some examples of what critics and readers have had to say about the novel:

• Suspenseful and Gripping: Many reviewers have praised Verity for its suspenseful and gripping plot. The novel’s complex characters and unpredictable twists keep readers engaged until the very end.
• Disturbing Content: Verity has also received criticism for its graphic content and depictions of violence. Some readers have found the novel too disturbing to read and have criticized it for its use of graphic language and descriptions.
• Compelling Characters: One of the strengths of Verity is its well-drawn characters. The novel’s protagonist, Lowen Ashleigh, is a relatable and sympathetic character, while Verity Crawford is a fascinating and complex antagonist.
• Unpredictable Plot: Another strength of Verity is its unpredictable plot. The novel’s twists and turns keep readers guessing until the very end.

Character Analysis

• Lowen Ashleigh: As the protagonist of Verity, Lowen Ashleigh is a critical character to analyze. The novel follows her journey from struggling writer to uncovering the secrets of the Crawford family. We can analyze Lowen’s motivations, emotions, and character development throughout the novel.
• Verity Crawford: Verity is a complex character with a traumatic past and severe mental illness. We can analyze her motivations and how her mental illness impacts her behavior.
• Jeremy Crawford: Jeremy is a successful author and Verity’s husband. We can analyze his role in the novel and how he contributes to the plot.

Narrative Techniques

• Use of Multiple Perspectives: Verity is written from the perspectives of both Lowen and Verity, which adds complexity to the plot and allows the reader to see different sides of the story.
• Flashbacks and Memories: The novel incorporates flashbacks and memories to provide insight into the characters’ pasts and motivations.
• Use of Imagery: Colleen Hoover uses vivid and descriptive imagery throughout the novel to create a suspenseful and engaging atmosphere.
• The Manuscript: The manuscript that Lowen discovers is a significant symbol in the novel. It represents the power of storytelling and the consequences of keeping secrets.
• The House: The isolated mansion in which the novel is set represents the characters’ isolation and emotional detachment.
• The Bird: The bird that appears in the novel symbolizes freedom and the characters’ desire to escape their situations.

In summary, analyzing the characters, narrative techniques, and symbolism in Verity can provide a deeper understanding of the novel’s themes and plot. Through examining Lowen, Verity, and Jeremy’s motivations, the use of multiple perspectives and imagery, and the symbolism of the manuscript, house, and bird, readers can gain a more nuanced understanding of Colleen Hoover’s thriller.

SPOILER ALERT – If you haven’t read the book and don’t want to know the ending, please do not read any further.

In a chilling confession, Jeremy reveals that he has been manipulating Verity and the events in the house for years. He admits to causing the death of their children and attempting to murder Verity in order to keep her silent. The reader is left with the unsettling feeling that nothing is as it seems and that the true horror of the Crawford household goes much deeper than they could have imagined.

The ending of “Verity” is a masterful twist that takes the reader by surprise. It is a testament to Colleen Hoover’s skill as a writer that she is able to create such a complex and suspenseful story with a twist ending that is both satisfying and unsettling. While some readers may find the ending disturbing or unsatisfying, it is a bold choice that cements “Verity” as a standout novel in the psychological thriller genre.

“Verity” by Colleen Hoover is a gripping psychological thriller novel that explores the themes of truth, betrayal, and the power of storytelling. The book combines elements of suspense, mystery, and psychological manipulation to create a dark and twisty story that keeps readers on edge.

The characters in “Verity” are well-developed, with complex motivations and psychological profiles that add depth to the story. The novel’s narrative techniques, such as the use of multiple perspectives and the incorporation of Verity’s manuscript, add to the sense of mystery and suspense.

Symbolism is also an important aspect of the novel, particularly in the use of the moth as a recurring motif that represents the characters’ obsession with death and destruction. The author’s use of vivid descriptions and sensory details further enhances the reader’s immersion in the story.

The ending of “Verity” is a shocking and unexpected twist that reveals the true villain behind the tragic events in the Crawford household. It is a bold choice that cements the novel’s status as a standout in the psychological thriller genre, but it may be disturbing or unsatisfying for some readers.

What is the book Verity about?

"Verity" by Colleen Hoover is a psychological thriller novel that follows the story of Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer who is hired to complete the remaining books in a popular series written by bestselling author Verity Crawford. Lowen travels to the Crawford household to go through Verity's notes and outlines for the series, and while searching through Verity's office, she discovers a manuscript that was never intended for anyone else to read.

As Lowen reads through the manuscript, she discovers horrifying secrets about the Crawford family and the true nature of Verity's character. The manuscript details a disturbing and twisted story about Verity and her husband Jeremy, and as Lowen becomes more entangled in the secrets of the Crawford household, she realizes that the lines between fiction and reality are blurred.

What type of book is Verity?

"Verity" by Colleen Hoover is a psychological thriller novel that combines elements of suspense, mystery, and psychological manipulation to create a dark and twisty story that keeps readers on edge. The book explores themes of truth, betrayal, and the power of storytelling in a way that is both gripping and thought-provoking.

What happens at the end of Verity?

In the final pages of "Verity," a shocking and unexpected twist is revealed that leaves readers reeling. Throughout the novel, the reader is led to believe that Verity Crawford is a cruel and manipulative character who is responsible for the tragic events that have occurred in the Crawford household. However, in the end, it is revealed that Verity's husband, Jeremy, is the true villain.

In a chilling confession, Jeremy admits to manipulating Verity and the events in the house for years. He admits to causing the death of their children and attempting to murder Verity to keep her silent. The reader is left with the unsettling feeling that nothing is as it seems, and the true horror of the Crawford household goes much deeper than they could have imagined.

The ending of "Verity" is a masterful twist that takes the reader by surprise. It is a bold choice that cements "Verity" as a standout novel in the psychological thriller genre. However, some readers may find the ending disturbing or unsatisfying.

Hi, I’m William Jones, the administrator of the exciting website explainedthis.com, which offers movie, music, and book reviews. With a deep passion for entertainment, I created this platform to provide a trusted source of information for fellow enthusiasts who want to stay up-to-date on the latest releases and trends.

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Verity by Colleen Hoover

A Psychological Thriller That Will Leave You Breathless With Twisted Plots and Complex Characters

• Publisher: Independently Published
• Genre: Psychological Thriller
• First Publication: 2018
• Language:  English

Setting: New York(United States)

Characters: Verity Crawford, Lowen Ashleigh, Jeremy Crawford

Verity by Colleen Hoover is a mind-bending psychological thriller that had me hooked from start to finish. I remember picking it up on a whim after seeing so much buzz about it online, and I’m so glad I did. From the twisted plot to the complex characters, this book kept me guessing and left me questioning everything I thought I knew.

The story follows Lowen Ashley, a struggling writer who lands a dream job ghostwriting for the famous author Verity Crawford. But things take a dark turn when she discovers Verity’s unfinished manuscript filled with shocking confessions of a disturbing crime. As Lowen dives deeper into Verity’s world, the lines between reality and fiction blur, and she finds herself caught up in a twisted web of secrets and lies.

What really captivated me was how the plot just keeps twisting and turning. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out, Hoover throws in another curveball that leaves you reeling. And the way she weaves in Lowen’s growing connection with Verity’s husband, Jeremy Crawforf, adds an extra layer of complexity and tension that had me on the edge of my seat.

Main Character Analysis:

The characters in this book are what really make it shine. Lowen is such a compelling protagonist – at first, she seems almost naïve, but as the story unfolds, you see her transform into this strong, resilient woman who’s willing to risk everything to uncover the truth. Her journey of self-discovery and growth is so well-written and relatable.

And then there’s Verity herself. Even though she’s physically absent for most of the book, her presence looms large over every page. Hoover does an incredible job of painting her as this complex, almost mythical figure – brilliant but deeply troubled, with a darkness that’s both captivating and terrifying.

Jeremy is another standout character. On the surface, he’s this doting husband and father, but Hoover slowly peels back the layers to reveal someone much more complicated and morally ambiguous. His dynamic with Lowen is electric and kept me constantly questioning his true motivations.

Writing Style:

Colleen Hoover’s writing style in “Verity” is just masterful. The way she blends psychological depth with heart-pounding suspense had me completely hooked. Her vivid descriptions and attention to detail make the characters and settings feel so real and visceral. And the use of multiple perspectives and unreliable narrators adds this deliciously unsettling layer of mystery that keeps you second-guessing everything.

One of the things I loved most about “Verity” was how it tackled so many thought-provoking themes. The biggest one, for me, was this idea of truth versus deception and how easily the lines can blur. The characters are constantly lying – to each other, to themselves – and it really makes you question how well you can ever truly know someone.

The theme of obsession is also huge. You see how far these characters are willing to go to protect their interests, their legacy, their version of the truth. It’s honestly kind of terrifying but also weirdly fascinating to witness that level of single-minded determination.

Identity is another biggie. Lowen, Jeremy, Verity – they’re all grappling with who they really are deep down and how their actions shape that identity. It adds this extra layer of depth and complexity to their motivations.

And of course, there’s the power of storytelling itself. Hoover explores how narratives have the ability to shape reality, for better or worse. The way she blurs the lines between fiction and truth is just brilliantly executed.

What People are Saying:

The buzz around Colleen Hoover’s “Verity” has been absolutely nuts! It seems like everyone and their mom has read this book (me included – thanks for the rec!). People are straight-up obsessed, and it’s easy to see why. The twisty plot, the complex characters , the mind-bending themes – it’s just such a deliciously devourable read.

Pretty much every review I’ve seen has been glowing, with people raving about Hoover’s masterful storytelling and her ability to create this deliciously unsettling atmosphere that sticks with you long after you’ve finished the book.

My Personal Take:

Okay, I have to be honest – “Verity” kind of messed me up in the best way possible. I burned through this book in just a couple of sittings, completely consumed by Hoover’s gripping narrative and unable to pry myself away.

What really hooked me from the start was how deliciously twisted and unreliable everything felt. From those very first pages where Lowen discovers Verity’s confession, I was just completely on edge, desperate to unravel the truth but also kind of dreading what other skeletons might come tumbling out of the closet.

And Hoover is just such a master at ratcheting up that tension. With every new reveal, every shocking development, the stakes felt higher and the characters’ motivations became murkier. I found myself constantly reevaluating what I thought I knew, second-guessing every character’s version of events. It was honestly kind of exhausting in the best possible way!

The pacing, too, was just masterfully done. Hoover knows exactly how to dole out those tantalizing morsels of information to keep you frantically turning pages. I’d be up way later than I intended because I just had to know what happened next.

But what’s really stuck with me most is how “Verity” makes you question the very nature of truth and identity. Like, how well can you ever really know someone? How much can you trust your own version of reality ? Hoover explores those ideas in such a compellingly twisted way, making you wonder what depths you might be capable of if pushed to the edge.

And let’s be real, I still have no idea what was actually going on with certain storylines (no spoilers!). Part of me is dying to discuss and dissect all the theories, but another part loves the fact that Hoover leaves you with this lingering sense of unease and uncertainty. That’s some skilled storytelling right there.

Wrapping It Up:

At the end of the day, “Verity” by Colleen Hoover is just a masterwork of psychological suspense that demands to be read. Colleen Hoover’s talent for creating rich, complicated characters and slowly unspooling their tangled web of lies and deceptions is truly unmatched. This book will get under your skin in the most deliciously twisted way.

If you’re looking for a gripping, mind-bending read that will make you question everything, look no further. Just make sure to clear your schedule first – once you start “Verity,” you won’t be able to put it down until that final, jaw-dropping page.

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What Makes a Villain? A Review of ‘Verity’ by Colleen Hoover

by Krystina Quintana

This review contains spoilers of Verity by Colleen Hoover.

Content Warning: Abuse, Death, Mental Health, Violence, and Sexual Assault

Exploring Character Intent and Actions

Many books craft a story with a clear villain and a hero, providing the reader with a clear plotline and the idea of which characters to root for and against. Though much of Verity by Colleen Hoover presents Verity Crawford as the villain in the story, as told by her autobiography, multiple characters perform heinous acts, particularly Lowen Ashleigh. This review aims to explore Lowen as the primary villain of Hoover’s novel.

A Romantic Encounter Leading to Dark Events

Verity begins with the gruesome accidental death of a passerby, which brings Lowen, a small-time writer on the verge of financial ruin, together with Jeremy Crawford, the husband of famed writer Verity Crawford. Lowen is presented with the opportunity to continue Verity’s book series as a ghostwriter due to an accident which left Verity incapacitated and in a comatose state.

After some convincing, Lowen accepts the offer and travels to the Crawford’s house, where she is provided with Verity’s notes to help her craft the next books in the series. In Verity’s office, Lowen finds an autobiographical manuscript detailing Verity’s experiences from meeting Jeremy to jealousy leading to a failed self-abortion attempt, child abuse, the death of Chastin (one of her twins), and the murder of her other daughter (Harper). The more Lowen digs into Verity’s past via her manuscript, the more she begins to feel for Jeremy romantically.

Simultaneously, mysterious, chilling activities begin occurring in the Crawford household, such as randomly locked/unlocked doors, disappearing items, and odd comments from Crew (the only remaining Crawford child) about recent talks with his mother. These inconsistencies lead Lowen to push Jeremy to read the manuscript, as she is convinced Verity is faking her comatose state. Once Jeremy reads the autobiography, he confronts his wife about the death of Harper. After admitting her unconscious state was, in fact, fake, Lowen and Jeremy manage to kill Verity while making her death appear accidental.

With Verity dead, Jeremy, Lowen, and Crew can start afresh as a new family. Months later, with Lowen near the end of a pregnancy, she uncovers a letter written by Verity addressing the manuscript as a writing exercise to allow her to better approach writing from a villain’s perspective.

Additionally, the note mentions a previous attempt by Jeremy to murder Verity after reading her manuscript, as he took it to be truthful and sought revenge for the death of their daughter. Because of this murder attempt, Verity faked a coma so she could later escape with Crew. This information leaves readers with the question of who was telling the truth, Verity or Jeremy.

Read Verity Here

Written by Colleen Hoover

Grand Central Publishing (Reprint: October 26, 2021)

ISBN-13: 978-1538724736

336 pages, Paperback

Who’s the Actual Villain?

Though Verity and Jeremy are seen as the story’s villains, depending on which version the reader believes, the real villain of the novel is Lowen. From the beginning, she shows clear attraction to Jeremy despite witnessing a death up close. While the initial romantic spark can be excused as Lowen was unaware of Jeremy’s marriage status, it only took a few days of staying at the Crawford house to once again romanticize him.

Though she attempts to dispel her feelings a few times, she gives in quite quickly, as evidenced by the thought, “When Jeremy’s eyes are on mine, it feels like an exploration of the deepest parts of me.” near the beginning of her stay. As Lowen continues to delve into Verity’s autobiography, which dictates Verity’s and Jeremy’s relationship in and out of the bedroom, her romantic feelings evolve.

In one of the final chapters, Lowen lashes out at Verity after seeing her crawling on the floor via a monitor. While trying to incite a response from Verity to prove she is faking her illness, Lowen makes multiple horrific comments, including wishing for Verity to die by choking on her own vomit and her intent to sleep with Jeremy.

With multiple attempts at ridding Verity from the house, including suggesting a care facility to Jeremy, it seems Lowen’s ultimate goal has been to replace Verity for quite some time. Though it was Jeremy’s idea to murder Verity, Lowen ultimately crafts the plan to kill her via the very method she previously threatened.

Lowen’s motives throughout the entire book are purely selfish, demonstrating the evils one is willing to perform for one’s desires. These callous actions, including the ability to pursue a married man with an “ailing” wife, highlight Lowen as the true villain of the story.

Verity is a psychological thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat for the entire book. With its twists, turns, and unexpected ending, it’s reminiscent of Gone Girl . This is an excellent read for anyone who enjoys delving into the darker side of humanity. Be warned; you will likely need a lighter read afterwards as it features some very dark elements.

Colleen Hoover is published by Atria Books, Grand Central Publishing, Montlake Romance, and HarperCollins Publishers.

In 2015, Colleen’s novel CONFESS won the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance. That was followed up in 2016 with her latest title, It Ends With Us, also winning the Choice Award for Best Romance. In 2017, her title WITHOUT MERIT won best romance.

Her novel CONFESS has been filmed as a series by Awestruck and is available on Prime Video via Amazon and iTunes. Katie Leclerc and Ryan Cooper star in the series.

Colleen founded The Bookworm Box, a charity bookstore and book signing event, with her family in 2015. The Bookworm Box hosts a book signing (Book Bonanza) each year which features over 200 authors as well as an annual auction to raise funds for food banks and other charities across the nation. To date, The Bookworm Box has donated over $1,000,000 to help those in need.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. You will not be charged extra, but a portion of your purchase will help support Lit Shark’s causes in inclusive and accessible literature and writing resources, as well as our growing movement in conversation education, rescue, and revitalization.

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Written By Krystina Quintana

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Jen Ryland Reviews

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Review of Verity by Colleen Hoover

05.10.2022 by Jen Ryland // 7 Comments

Social media made me do it ! Because many of you loved this romantic thriller by popular new adult author Colleen Hoover, I checked it out of the library. What did I think of Verity ? Check out my Review of Verity by Colleen Hoover on Jen Ryland Reviews!

Disclosure: as an Amazon Affiliate I may receive a small percentage of qualifying purchases.

Verity by Colleen Hoover

Published in October 2021 by Grand Central Publishing (previously published independently)

Synopsis: Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts a job offer from Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish.

Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity’s notes and outlines. What Lowen doesn’t expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography.

Page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity’s recollection of the night her family was forever altered.

Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy, knowing its contents could devastate the already grieving father.

But as Lowen’s feelings for Jeremy begin to intensify, she recognizes all the ways she could benefit if he were to read his wife’s words.

After all, no matter how devoted Jeremy is to his injured wife, a truth this horrifying would make it impossible for him to continue loving her. 

I will start by saying that I am not a CoHo super-fan but very familiar with her work and have enjoyed some of her angsty new adult romances.

So I’m going to try to look at Verity, which to me was sort of a cross between a Gothic romance and a re-imagining of Misery, from both the romance side and the thriller side.

Verity had a LOT of interesting things going for it.

To my delight, Verity had many elements of a modern Gothic romance . Like Jane Eyre revisited! Romantic suspense is basically Gothic fiction – I did a whole post on that here.

In a typical Gothic, a young woman in dire economic straits (like an orphan) is hired to work in a house for an attractive guy with a sad, tragic past. He’s so dashing, so forlorn …. but could he be hiding something? Something dark and terrible?

Gothic Spoiler: yes, he’s usually hiding something. No, it’s usually not that terrible. No, it won’t get in the way of their undeniable love!

Verity opens on a dark and dramatic note!

I had to give Colleen Hoover credit for opening this romantic suspense with a meet-macabre . You’ve head of a meet meet-cute, like in a rom com?

Well, these two potential lovebirds meet over a gruesome accident, complete with blood spatter. It was a clever twist on this romance trope and set the tone for the darkness to come!

Immediately on arriving at her new job, main character Lowen finds the secret autobiography of Verity Crawford. I had MANY suspicions around this, but I will save those for my Spoiler Discussion Post of Verity .

Like most romantic suspense and Gothic fiction, the central question of Verity is whether Jeremy Crawford is a loving husband who has endured unimaginable losses, a victim of circumstance, or a more sinister figure?

And, like a lot of new adult romance, Lowen and Jeremy’s relationship is a case of insta-love , a trope hated by many readers, but necessary in a more plot-driven book where the couple’s relationship isn’t the center of the story.

Will YOU like Verity?

From my social media, I can see that Verity has its passionate fans, who loved the ending.

The book also has its detractors in the mystery and thriller community who found it too heavy on explicit love scenes and thin on suspense.

If you are a fan of new adult fiction, romance, or big twist domestic fiction by authors like Liv Constantine or Sarah Pekkanen and Greer Hendricks, I think you will like Verity .

If you are a more traditional thriller reader and prefer books that are intricately and methodically plotted or more character-driven, books with a well-developed setting, or books with a large cast of characters and a lot of suspects, you may not appreciate Verity.

I fell somewhere in the middle. Verity was a fun and compelling read. I thought the modern Gothic set-up was clever. As for what I thought of the ending, you’ll have to come to my spoiler discussion and find out!

What are other books like Verity?

I have seen people on social media say “I need more books like Verity .”

The Silent Patient by Alex Berenson also has a clever twist, though it’s not quite as much of a drama-fest as Verity .

Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney also features a throuple playing twisted games. Again, it’s not as emotionally intense as Verity .

You by Caroline Kepnes (which I didn’t review) also has that blend of twisted romance and psychopathy.

Have you read Verity ? If you have, PLEASE come to my Spoiler Discussion for Verity by Colleen Hoover where we can discuss all the surprises, all the tropes, all the drama!

Want ALL the details on the brand-new epilogue in the hardcover for Verity?

Don’t want to buy another copy of Verity ? No worries: I have all the details in my Verity Spoiler Post! The epilogue does NOT resolve manuscript vs. letter but you won’t want to miss it!

Do you have books to recommend like Verity? Tell me in the comments!

Leave me a comment? Did you love Verity??

About Jen Ryland

Over 12 years of book blogging and reviewing, I have read over 1500 books. A fair and honest reviewer who loves book discussions, I'm here to help you find a book you'll love to read AND give you a place to talk about it and ask questions. Find me on Instagram and Pinterest as @jenryland!

I actually am in a book club where we had a poll: letter or manuscript: which was the truth. If the manuscript was true, then Verity is a psychopath. But if the letter is true as I think then I love your idea of that editor coming in at the end of the story. I skipped all the sex scenes. I don’t care for them in thrillers. I also dislike the whole “Mr. Rochester” man (great way of putting it). What idiots as you pointed out-have a conversation-instead of pretending all that time lying in your bed. Verity forgot where she printed out the manuscript? If it was an exercise or even if worse it was real, passcode protect it. And then Logan marries him?

Ooh, where do you come out? You think she’s telling the truth in the letter? I felt like the name Verity was a good clue that she was a reliable narrator. But why write the manuscript and then the letter? Why can’t these people have a conversation!!!

I used to love Colleen Hoover’s books but I think my tastes have changed since I first discovered her books 6 years ago. I’ve just read better books with more interesting characters. I do get the appeal but I think I’ve accepted if I’m looking for something new to read it probably won’t be one of her books.

She definitely has avid fans and I can see why. Her books are very readable and have a lot of drama! I was so curious to see what a thriller written by her would be like.

I love some of Hoover’s books and others don’t always work for me. This is one that I want to give a try though. Great review!

Normally I stay with the same authors I have always read, but my daughter Laura said mom you gotta read Verity and I am currently almost done, but WOW is all I can say what a fabulous read. I though the whole book so far was absolutely amazing. I do wonder if Jeremy is going to try and kill Lowen in the end.

I agree, Dianna – but hold that thought!!!!

I am about to post a summary of the NEW chapter that appears in the Verity hardcover that came out last week and WOW is all I can say. It will be on this Spoiler Discussion for Verity but I will link it on this one as well.

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For the Plot | ‘Verity’ book review

Colleen Hoover is no doubt an amazing author — I mean, half of her books end up on the most read books list on GoodReads — but “Verity” is jaw-dropping.

The story follows Lowen Ashleigh, who is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin, until she accepts a job offer that will change her life.

Jeremy Crawford, the husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his wife has written, since Verity has become seriously injured and is unable to complete the series herself.

Lowen arrives at the Crawford home to sort through years of Verity’s notes and outlines, hoping she can find some sort of material to guide her in writing the series. What Lowen doesn’t expect to find in Verity’s office is her unfinished autobiography that Verity never wanted anyone to read.

Throughout the autobiography, Verity makes bone-chilling admissions about her relationship with Jeremy and her recollection of the day their daughters died. Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy, knowing the contents would devastate the grieving man, but not for long. Lowen realizes that he could benefit from reading his wife’s words.

Before reading this book, I truly believed that Colleen Hoover could only write a great romance novel, but I was far from the truth.

The writing in “Verity” is immersive and captivating, with detailed descriptions that paint vivid pictures of characters and their surroundings. Colleen Hoover’s writing always has me wanting more, and she writes in a way where it is as if you are living through the exact moment the characters are going through. She never fails to put every ounce of emotion into her writing, and I can feel it as I read her books.

Besides her phenomenal writing overall, her characters, especially in “Verity,” are beautifully done, complex and well developed.

Verity Crawford comes across as a complicated character with a lot of trauma and tragedy surrounding her life. Throughout the entire book, readers are given the impression that Verity is a woman with a history of mental instability and trying to control her environment at any cost.

Jeremy Crawford, on the other hand, presents himself as an equally complex figure. He seems like the perfect caring husband that anyone would swoon over, but at other times, his actions raise eyebrows and suspicion over his true intentions.

Lowen Ashleigh also has a troubled past, which she tries to keep under control, but her proximity to Jeremy and revelations about Verity start to unravel her carefully crafted façade.

The most interesting part of this book was the dynamic between these intriguing characters. Verity, Jeremy and Lowen all have a very complicated and dangerous relationship that keeps readers guessing and anticipating what is going to happen next. These characters all have a darkness that surrounds them, and at times you can’t help but hate almost every character — yet you can’t help but be drawn into and invested in every single one of their journeys.

The plot of this book is masterfully crafted, and the pacing keeps the reader engaged throughout as multiple plot twists keep the story unpredictable.

I had heard a lot about this book — mainly from TikTok — about how amazing it was, or that people were staying up all night just to finish this book. I wish I could say they were exaggerating, but they were not. I ended up finishing the book in two days, as I would stay up until 3 a.m. because I could not seem to put the book down. Even when I would go to sleep, I would wake up in a cold sweat and have nightmares from the book. That was how scary it was to me.

I usually don’t have books that are able to evoke such intense emotions from me like crying or laughing, so when a book can make me do that, I immediately love it more. However, a book that can make me have nightmares is my new obsession. I have never had a book that would do something like that for me and I loved it! Having nightmares over a book may not be for everyone, but it was definitely right up my alley.

“Verity” is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and suspenseful romantic stories, but I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. I don’t think I would have it be someone’s first Colleen Hoover book, but definitely add it to the TBR. Colleen Hoover always creates engrossing tales of love, loss and betrayal that will keep anyone turning the page until the very end. The characters are well developed, and the story is full of tension, making it an overall enjoyable and captivating read.

Rating: 4.7/5

• colleen hoover
• for the plot

Book Review: Verity by Colleen Hoover

Last Updated on August 20, 2023 by Louisa

Colleen Hoover is well known for her gripping romance novels that explore darker themes, so when her suspenseful thriller novel, Verity, hit the shelves – I admit that I was dubious about how it would be received.

Verity is not Hoover’s usual style, but it quickly became a hit. This gripping and intense thriller showcases the versatility of Colleen Hoover’s writing skills, delving into a different style and genre with finesse.

If you’ve not read Verity and you’re thinking of giving it a try, here is my complete and honest book review of Verity by Colleen Hoover so you know what to expect.

Affiliate Disclosure : This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through any of these links. 

Book Review of Verity by Colleen Hoover

Verity by colleen hoover book review.

Verity is a New York Times bestselling thriller novel by Colleen Hoover that follows a struggling writer, Lowen Ashleigh, who is presented with the opportunity of a lifetime. After successful author Verity Crawford becomes seriously injured, Lowen is hired to complete the remaining books in her series. Lowen must travel to Verity’s home where she works through Verity’s manuscripts and notes, meanwhile uncovering Verity’s unfinished manuscript of her biography. The manuscript reveals unsettling truths and dark secrets. The discovery leads Lowen torn between keeping quiet and getting the job done, or telling Verity’s husband Jeremy, who she develops feelings for. The more Lowen discovers, the more she is drawn down a twisted path of love, deceit, and danger.

Reviewed by Louisa Smith

Verity is a thriller novel that’s packed with suspense and intrigue that keeps readers guessing as they follow along the story with the protagonist. It has the perfect level of romance and darkness, with a plot twist that will leave your jaw glued to the floor.

What I liked

The first thing I liked about Verity is the plot. It was completely engaging throughout and I didn’t feel it ever dwindled. Every scene had a purpose, and the back and forth between the present and the diary entry by Verity was well-crafted and put together.

Throughout the story, I was constantly asking questions and making assumptions, like Lowen, the protagonist. I felt as though the reader is put in the same seat as Lowen, and you are following along at the same pace as the protagonist.

The characters in Verity are also complex and well-developed, adding depth to the story.

I found Lowen’s vulnerability and determination made her relatable, while Verity’s enigmatic nature you learn from her diary pages makes her seem like an enigma that you can’t figure out.

The mystery behind Verity, and how her accident happened, keeps readers guessing about her true motives and also makes you a little suspicious of Jeremy, her husband, even though he is portrayed as good throughout the novel.

Each character is vastly different, and the intricate dynamics between them create a tense and suspenseful atmosphere throughout the novel.

Furthermore, Colleen Hoover masterfully explores themes of obsession, manipulation, and the blurred lines between truth and fiction.

She delves into the darker aspects of human nature, forcing readers to question their own perceptions of right and wrong as they unravel the mystery as they read.

However, it’s important to note that Verity includes explicit content and explores dark themes that may not be suitable for all readers.

The novel contains triggers and graphic scenes that some might find disturbing or uncomfortable, such as the death of a child, murder, and attempted suicide.

Despite this, Verity stands out in the thriller genre with its unique plot and well-crafted storytelling, plus a finale that has you lost for words.

Hoover’s writing style is captivating and addictive, effortlessly drawing readers into the suspenseful world she has created.

What could have been better

Honestly, it really is hard to say what could have been better, and I don’t really like to be nitpicky.

But if there’s one thing that could have been better for me, is that the character of Jeremy could have been more developed.

I would have liked to know more of his backstory, and I felt that there was more to the story of why he chose Lowen to be the author of Verity’s novels.

There was a lot implied when it comes to Jeremy, and you learn most about his life and character from Lowen and Verity’s perspective, which makes it hard for you to resonate with Jeremy and his ideas and motives.

Similar Works

If you enjoyed Verity, and you’d like to read some other gripping thrillers, then you may find similar vibes in “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn and “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins.

These novels share a similar sense of suspense and psychological complexity when it comes to relationships that will leave you craving more.

Related Reading: Books Like Verity

Verity Trigger Warnings

This book contains references to:

• Death of a child
• Infanticide
• Graphic child abuse
• Toxic Relationships

Romance Tropes

Verity features the following romance tropes :

• Slow burn romance
• Mystery/Thriller Romance

Where to find it?

You can find Verity by Colleen Hoover in most good bookstores. Or you can purchase a copy from any of these links.

View it on:

The Verdict: Would I Recommend Verity by Colleen Hoover?

If you’re wondering whether I would recommend Verity, the answer is a resounding YES. It’s not often that I read a book that has me glued to the pages like Verity did.

The narrative keeps you guessing throughout with its unpredictable twists and turns, ensuring that you won’t be able to put the book down until its shocking conclusion.

I devoured it in one sitting.

Verity is a thrilling and engaging read that highlights Hoover’s versatility in delivering captivating stories across genres.

With its suspenseful plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is sure to leave you hungry for more of Hoover’s works.

Have Your Say…

Now you know what I think, it’s time to let the Epic Book Society know what you think. Have you read Verity by Colleen Hoover? Share your opinion of the book in the comments.

The Details:

• Pub Date:  October 26, 2021
• ISBN:  1538724731
• Page Count:  336
• Publisher:  Grand Central Publishing

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About Louisa Smith

Editor/Founder - Epic Book Society

Louisa is the Founder, Editor, and Head Honcho of Epic Book Society. She was born and raised in the United Kingdom and graduated from the University for the Creative Arts with a degree in Journalism. Louisa began her writing career at the age of 7 when her poetry was published in an anthology of poems to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee. Upon graduating university, she spent several years working as a journalist writing about books before transitioning to become a Primary School Teacher. Louisa loves all genres of books, but her favorites are Sci-Fi, Romance, Fantasy, and Young Adult Fiction. Read more Louisa's story here .

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Sarah O'Connor

Writer – playwright – cannot save you from the robot apocalypse, book review: verity by colleen hoover.

NotSarahConnorWrites

January 12, 2023

“Some families are lucky enough to never experience a single tragedy. But then there are those families that seem to have tragedies waiting on the back burner. What can go wrong, goes wrong. And then gets worse,”  (Hoover 31).

Things aren’t looking good for Lowen Ashleigh. Her mother died a few months before, her books aren’t selling, and she’s about to be evicted from her apartment. But after a strange meeting with her agent, Lowen learns she has been hired by Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, to finish writing the remaining books in her series after Verity is injured in an accident and unable to finish them. Lowen goes to stay in the Crawford house for a few days, looking for notes and outlines in Verity’s disorganized office, and instead finds Verity’s unfinished autobiography that details the deaths of her twin daughters and other disturbing truths. Lowen knows she shouldn’t read it, but she can’t stop herself, and as she grows more disturbed by Verity’s confessions, she wonders what she should do with the manuscript, keep the truth hidden or tell Jeremy?

I have things to say, so spoiler warning because my review of  Verity  will spoil parts of the book. If you don’t want that skip this, and come back after you’ve read it. 

This book went crazy on BookTok, so it’s been on my radar for a while. I’ve been curious about why it’s so popular, but not curious enough to actually buy it. The holds list at my library was incredibly long, so I settled for waiting until the hype (eventually, someday, maybe) died down. But then I stumbled upon an express copy at the library, it seemed fated, so I read  Verity .

And, I mean, I get the hype. But it wasn’t for me.

I understand why it’s popular. There’s a lot of sex, an arguably excessive amount of sex, which I didn’t have an issue with. Was it annoying reading about how Verity worshipped her husband’s dick? Yes. However, Hoover chiefly writes in romance, so the excessive (and annoying) sex scenes make sense when you look at the genre she writes from most often. It also has a slight creepy factor to it that attempts to make it an almost modern Gothic. Attempts to, but ultimately fails at.

And that’s the thing about  Verity , it tries to be a thriller, it tries to be a horror story, it tries to be a creepy mystery but it only slightly hits the mark on all these things. It has a (literally) killer opening line, and some quotable parts (like the quote I shared above) but ultimately doesn’t achieve anything it sets out to do. Lowen and Jeremy are flat characters. While Hoover builds a lot of mystery around Lowen, her upbringing, and the death of her mother, there’s no big revelation about why she is the way she is, why she’s such a loner and seems to have an overall dislike of people. We don’t even know anything about the books she writes, only that they’re  similar  to Verity’s and we know the title of her first one (Open Window, I think?). And while I loved Jeremy’s quote about being a “Chronic” (a person who has and continues to experience many tragedies in their lives, which I sadly relate too) Jeremy doesn’t read like a person who has experienced tragedy, grief, or trauma. This is a man who within a year has had his twin daughters die and his wife attempt suicide and end up in a brain dead state. While I understand the “resilience” of keeping things normal for his five-year-old son, it isn’t realistic. Even the best of parents fall apart, and after that much trauma in such a short amount of time Jeremy shouldn’t be as well adjusted as he is. It just isn’t realistic.

And the letter.

Warning again, because here come the big spoilers. Also spoilers for  Gone Girl  if you somehow don’t know anything about that.

The letter is, arguably, what people talk about most in their love of  Verity , and what the entire novel hinges on to make it memorable. Nine months after Verity’s death, a heavily pregnant Lowen goes with Jeremy and Crew to finish getting rid of the things in the old house as they move on with their lives. In Verity’s room, Lowen finds a VERY long letter in which Verity reveals that the autobiography Lowen found was actually a writing exercise encouraged by her agent to get into the deranged headspace of her protagonists. Verity explains that Jeremy found the manuscript and attempted to kill her, put her in the car and in the accident making it look like she was trying to kill herself as she implied she would in the endinfg of her manuscript. Lowen destroys the letter, disturbed that she and Jeremy are complicit in killing Verity who was never evil but an innocent woman. Or was she? Lowen acknowledges that all they have are Verity’s words, that the letter could be just as fake as she’s claiming the manuscript was and so we will never know.

And it just isn’t done well.

There are many books that have pulled this twist off excellently, the first that comes to mind being  Gone Girl . I remember when I first read that book and how completely shocked I was by the revelation that Amy was alive and that her journal was fabricated. Flynn did that well and completely subverted my expectations from what was going to happen. But Hoover doesn’t succeed in this. For one thing, the letter is way too long. Even though Verity explains she wrote it when Jeremy and Lowen first had sex and she locked them in the master bedroom, it’s still a lengthy letter.

One of the main themes that gets repeated by Lowen at the beginning of  Verity  is how an author is not their words, how she is mistaken for being a worse person than she is because of the books she writes and that the voice she writes in isn’t who she is as a person. Hoover did this intentionally so that when we read Verity’s manuscript, reader’s are supposed to think like Lowen that that is who Verity is, especially because what she’s reading is an apparent autobiography. And then of course the letter, which is supposed to turn that on it’s head and bring about the theme of writing vs writer and how we only ever had Verity’s words, we have no idea who she was as a person. I get it . But Hoover just doesn’t do this well.

I understand why  Verity  is popular, but this story has been told in much better books by more experienced authors to the genre. Needless to say, I am not going to be joining Colleen Hoover’s CoHorts.

Last Thoughts and Spoilers:

• Make fun of me if you want, but I don’t think biting a headboard during sex is sexy. I sort of understand what Hoover was going for, but all I could think was what if you broke your tooth on the headboard. Dentists are expensive and not everyone has coverage!
• Lowen and Crew eating peanut butter crackers was a very small part of the book, but I thought the inclusion of peanut butter was weird. I get that your anaphylactic peanut allergy daughter is dead, but she literally DIED because of her allergy! I wouldn’t want peanuts/peanut butter ANYWHERE near me if that happened, talk about a trigger!
• I feel like Hoover was trying to set up that Lowen killed her mother by faking that she asphyxiated herself. There were some hints that her and her mother’s relationship was bad, and the suggestion of it when killing Verity seemed like Hoover was implying something that was just never revealed. I like when things are vague, but they have to be vague to a point where audiences can piece together what the author is laying out, and Hoover doesn’t do that.
• What kind of freaking name is Chastin?
• I was going to make fun of the name Lowen too but then I remembered it was used in  The Simpsons  and my friends younger sister is named Lowen, so it didn’t seem fair.

Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish. Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity’s notes and outlines, hoping to find enough material to get her started. What Lowen doesn’t expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read. Page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity’s recollection of what really happened the day her daughter died. Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy, knowing its contents would devastate the already grieving father. But as Lowen’s feelings for Jeremy begin to intensify, she recognizes all the ways she could benefit if he were to read his wife’s words. After all, no matter how devoted Jeremy is to his injured wife, a truth this horrifying would make it impossible for him to continue to love her.

3 thoughts on “ Book Review: Verity by Colleen Hoover ”

The Book “Verity” was interesting, didn’t know at first who was planning to kill Verity . Would read Colleen Hoovers Books again C. Meade

Well said on all accounts! Seriously… This book had so much potential, but too many misses. I also laughed at some of the names. There is cool-different and weird-different. Chastin is just weird-different. I like some of CH books, but the sex scenes are just overdramatized. I wish she would listen to criticism and tone it down.

I haven’t read any other Colleen Hoover books and I’m not sure that I will, but yes I think she definitely should listen to some of the criticism she receives. Sometimes I think Hoover is more interested in being famous then writing well!

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