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It Ends with Us: A Profound Journey from Unhappiness to Satisfaction

Breaking the Silence on Domestic Violence and Rediscovering Self-Worth

By Olivia Marshall Published 2 years ago 3 min read
It Ends with Us: A Profound Journey from Unhappiness to Satisfaction
Photo by Jonas Jacobsson on Unsplash

Introduction:

"It Ends with Us" by Colleen Hoover is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that delves deep into the complex issue of domestic violence. Initially, the portrayal of domestic violence in the story left me deeply unhappy, as it exposed the harsh reality of abusive relationships. However, as I followed the journey of Lily Bloom, the resilient main character, I found myself increasingly satisfied with the choices she made and the way the author tackled this sensitive topic.

The Unhappy Beginning:

The novel opens with Lily Bloom's return to her hometown of Boston, where she hopes to build a new life for herself. Early on, we learn about Lily's past and her tumultuous relationship with Ryle Kincaid, a successful neurosurgeon. Ryle is charismatic and charming, but beneath his exterior lies a darker side, one that perpetuates the cycle of domestic violence.

As a reader, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease and sadness as Lily becomes entangled in a relationship fraught with emotional and physical abuse. Colleen Hoover's portrayal of domestic violence is unflinching and brutally honest, which serves as a stark reminder of the harsh reality faced by many individuals in abusive relationships. It was this realism that initially made me unhappy, as I empathized with Lily's pain and the difficult choices she was forced to make.

Lily's Journey:

Lily Bloom is a character who refuses to be defined by her circumstances. She is a fighter and not a quitter, and her journey towards empowerment is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. As the story unfolds, we witness Lily's struggles, her determination to break free from the cycle of abuse, and her desire to protect the people she loves.

What sets "It Ends with Us" apart is the complexity of its characters. Ryle, despite his flaws, is portrayed with nuance, making readers question the nature of abuse and the factors that contribute to it. Lily's internal conflict is palpable, and her choices are often difficult and heartbreaking. It is this depth of character development that allows the reader to connect on a profound level with the story and its themes.

Lily's Decision:

The turning point of the novel comes when Lily must make a heart-wrenching decision, one that will determine the course of her life and ultimately lead to her satisfaction. Without giving away spoilers, I can say that this pivotal moment is a testament to Lily's strength and resilience. Her choice, while difficult, is a powerful message about self-worth, self-love, and the importance of breaking the cycle of abuse.

As I read through this part of the story, I found myself increasingly satisfied with the direction in which Colleen Hoover was taking the narrative. Lily's decision is not only a personal victory but also a statement about the importance of fighting against abuse, even when it comes from someone you love deeply. It was a moment of empowerment, and I couldn't help but cheer for Lily as she took control of her life.

The Impact and Message :

"It Ends with Us" is a book that lingers in your thoughts long after you've turned the last page. Colleen Hoover has masterfully crafted a story that tackles a sensitive and often taboo subject with grace and sensitivity. Through Lily's journey, the author sheds light on the complexities of abusive relationships, the importance of breaking the silence, and the strength it takes to make difficult choices.

This novel doesn't merely entertain; it educates and raises awareness about domestic violence. It forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths and challenges societal norms. It shows that love is not always enough to sustain a relationship and that sometimes the most loving thing one can do is to walk away from toxicity and never look back again.


Conclusion:

In "It Ends with Us," Colleen Hoover has created a powerful and thought-provoking masterpiece. While the initial portrayal of domestic violence left me unhappy, the choices made by the main character, Lily, ultimately filled me with satisfaction. This novel is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the importance of self-worth, and the capacity for change.

Through its vivid characters and poignant storytelling, "It Ends with Us" serves as a reminder that love, while essential, should never come at the cost of one's well-being. It encourages readers to have difficult conversations about abuse, to support survivors, and to believe in the possibility of healing and empowerment.

As I closed the book, I felt a profound sense of satisfaction, not just with the story's resolution, but with the impact it had on my perspective. "It Ends with Us" is more than a novel; it's a catalyst for change and a beacon of hope for those who have experienced the darkness of domestic violence.

Note:

The Office on Violence Against Women reduces violence against women. They help victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

For reporting domestic violence, call 18007997233

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