Book Review of Colleen Hoover's "Verity"

The novel follows the story of Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer who is hired to complete the remaining books in a bestselling series by the critically acclaimed author, Verity Crawford. Verity has suffered a severe accident and is unable to complete the series, leaving Lowen to take on the job. As Lowen delves deeper into Verity's life and work, she discovers a dark and disturbing truth that threatens to unravel everything she thought she knew.

The novel's strength lies in its ability to create and maintain suspense throughout the story. Hoover builds tension slowly but surely, gradually revealing key pieces of information that keep the reader hooked. The narrative is structured in a way that allows for constant surprises and twists, leading to a satisfying and unexpected ending.

One of the standout features of "Verity" is the complex and layered characters. Lowen, the protagonist, is a well-drawn character with a troubled past and a depth that makes her relatable and engaging. She is a flawed character, struggling with guilt and a history of trauma that affects her relationships and work. Hoover's depiction of Lowen's mental state is nuanced and sensitive, adding an emotional depth to the story.

The other main character, Verity, is a fascinating and enigmatic figure, portrayed as a talented and successful writer whose work is admired by many. However, as the novel progresses, the reader begins to see the darker side of her personality, and her behavior becomes increasingly erratic and disturbing. Hoover does an excellent job of creating a sense of unease around Verity, leaving the reader unsure of what she is capable of.

The supporting cast of characters is equally well-drawn, each with their own secrets and motivations. Jeremy, Verity's husband, is a particularly interesting character, whose behavior becomes increasingly suspicious as the story progresses. The tension between Jeremy and Lowen adds another layer of complexity to the story, adding to the sense of unease and uncertainty.

Hoover's writing style is another strength of the novel. She has a gift for creating vivid and evocative descriptions that bring the story to life. Her use of language is precise and effective, conveying the emotions and thoughts of the characters with clarity and intensity. The dialogue is also well-written, with each character's voice distinct and unique.

Overall, "Verity" is a gripping and suspenseful novel that will keep readers engaged from start to finish. The complex characters and well-crafted plot make for a compelling read, and Hoover's writing style adds an extra layer of depth to the story. The novel is not without its flaws, however. Some readers may find the graphic descriptions of violence and abuse disturbing, and there are moments where the plot feels contrived. However, these minor issues do not detract from the overall quality of the book.

One of the most impressive aspects of "Verity" is the way it subverts expectations. The novel starts out as a straightforward mystery, with Lowen trying to uncover the truth about Verity's accident. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that there is much more going on beneath the surface. The novel takes unexpected turns, and the final revelations are both shocking and satisfying.

In conclusion, "Verity" is an excellent psychological thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre. It is a well-crafted and suspenseful story with complex characters and an unpredictable plot. Colleen Hoover has done an excellent job of creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end. While it may not be for everyone due to its graphic content, for those who enjoy a good psychological thriller, "Verity" is a must-read.