The Complicated Journey of Love and Choices in 'It Ends With Us' by Colleen Hoover

Colleen Hoover's 'It Ends with Us' is a novel that delves into themes of love, violence, and decision-making. The story follows Lily, a recent college graduate, as she navigates relationships with two men, Ryle and Atlas. The book aims to captivate readers with its intriguing plot and character dynamics.

Lily, the protagonist, meets Ryle, a neurosurgeon with commitment issues, and Atlas, a homeless boy with a troubled past. The relationships between Lily, Ryle, and Atlas form the core of the narrative, showcasing themes of compassion, love, and resilience.

Lily's past, revealed through diaries addressed to Ellen DeGeneres, sheds light on her tumultuous teenage years marked by violence from her father towards her mother. Lily finds solace in gardening and forms a deep connection with Atlas, who becomes a source of support and love in her life.

The first encounter between Lily and Ryle occurs on the day of Lily's father's funeral, where Ryle's charismatic yet complex personality is introduced. Their initial conversation is candid and intense, setting the stage for a relationship filled with challenges and emotional depth.

Lily's father's death serves as a catalyst for her to revisit her past and confront unresolved emotions. Through the diaries she wrote as a teenager, Lily reflects on her experiences and begins to understand the complexities of her family dynamics, leading to personal growth and self-discovery.

Lily's compassionate nature and Atlas's troubled past create a bond based on mutual understanding and care. Their love story unfolds with moments of tenderness and support, highlighting the healing power of genuine connection and empathy in the face of adversity.

Atlas gets the chance to leave his destitute life in Lily's house when his uncle from Boston offers him the opportunity to live with him, finish school, and join the Marines. Before moving, Atlas promises Lily that he will come back for her once his life is peaceful enough.

Months after meeting Ryle, Lily finds the determination to pursue her dream of owning a flower shop. She hires Elisa, who turns out to be Ryle's sister, and they form a strong bond. Lily dreams of going to Boston to explore the city where everything is possible.

Over time, Ryle and Lily's relationship evolves from initial reluctance on Ryle's part to a deep and attentive connection. Ryle, initially focused on his ambitions as a neurosurgeon, surprises Lily with his sincerity and care, leading to a passionate and vigorous love between them.

During a chance meeting at a restaurant where Atlas works, Lily and Atlas recognize each other after 8 years. They both reveal they are engaged, causing Lily to doubt her feelings momentarily. Despite her love for Atlas, Lily believes her relationship with Ryle is going well.

After a night of drinking and flirting, Ryle accidentally burns his hand and in a fit of anger, pushes Lily, causing her to hit her head. This incident marks the first episode of violence for Lily, shocking her as it goes against everything she has always rejected. Despite Ryle's apologies, Lily is left questioning the future of their relationship.

Upon seeing Ryle's bandaged hand and Lily's visible wound, Atlas immediately senses something is wrong. This moment hints at Atlas's continued care and concern for Lily's well-being, showing that his feelings for her have endured over the years.

Ryle tries to convince Lily to break up with him, finding an opportunity to talk to her while she goes to the toilet. He visits Lily at her shop, apologizes for his violent behavior, and hides a note with his number in her cell phone, asking her to call him if she needs help. Lily forgives Ryle's violence after learning about his past trauma involving a loaded gun incident with his brother when he was six years old.

Despite the initial forgiveness and understanding, the relationship between Lily and Ryle deteriorates after a few months of peace. Ryle becomes suspicious and obsessed with a perceived secret relationship between Lily and Atlas, leading to unprecedented violence and a near rape episode. Lily seeks help from Atlas and discovers she is pregnant, causing immense confusion and unhappiness.

Lily keeps her pregnancy a secret and contemplates the impossibility of continuing the relationship with Ryle. Despite her weakness for him, she ultimately decides to divorce Ryle and chooses to be with Atlas, who has always been supportive and available for her. The baby's name will be the same as Ryle's older brother.

Eleven months later, Lily accidentally finds herself with Atlas, and they finally have the opportunity to be together after years of waiting. They embark on a peaceful and loving relationship characterized by tenderness and protection, signaling a new beginning for both of them.