Cover image of Verity
Verity
Colleen Hoover
Quick Take
Listening Length: 8 hours and 10 minutes. 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 best-selling 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 the night their family was forever altered. 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. Sexy. Twisted. Consuming. Due to graphic scenes and mature content, this book is recommended for listeners 18+.
Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Verity

Introduction

Verity, written by Colleen Hoover, is a psychological thriller that has captivated readers with its unique and shocking plot. The story follows Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer who accepts a job offer to complete a series of books for a successful author, Verity Crawford. However, upon arriving at the Crawford home, Lowen discovers an unfinished autobiography that reveals Verity's dark past and the events that altered their family forever. As Lowen navigates through the manuscript and her growing feelings for Verity's husband, Jeremy, she must decide whether to reveal the truth or keep it hidden. With its graphic scenes and mature content, Verity is recommended for listeners 18+.

About Colleen Hoover

Colleen Hoover, the author of Verity, is an international bestselling author known for her romance, YA, thriller, women's fiction, and paranormal romance novels. Hoover's writing style is characterized by her ability to blend genres and defy categorization. She is not afraid to push boundaries and explore darker themes in her stories. Hoover's dedication to her craft is evident in her ability to create compelling and unforgettable characters.

Analysis of Views

  1. Unique and Shocking Plot: Readers rave about the book's unique and shocking plot, which sets it apart from other suspense stories. The story's deliciously creepy atmosphere and the build-up of tension keep readers engaged from beginning to end.

  2. Dark and Twisted Tale: Verity's dark and twisted tale has captivated readers who appreciate its originality and willingness to explore taboo subjects. The book's exploration of themes such as child abuse, murder, and adultery adds depth and complexity to the story.

  3. Engaging Characters: The characters in Verity are deviously flawed, making them both relatable and intriguing. Lowen's struggle to balance her own desires with the responsibility of revealing the truth adds depth to her character arc. Jeremy's enigmatic nature and his wife's obsession with him create a sense of mystery that keeps readers guessing.

  4. Story Within a Story Format: The book's use of a story within a story format adds an extra layer of intrigue to the plot. The interspersing of Lowen's present-day POV with Verity's autobiography creates a sense of anticipation and keeps readers guessing until the very end.

  5. Clever Writing: Colleen Hoover's writing is praised for its creativity and ability to keep readers engaged. Her writing style is described as "offensively bad" by some readers, but others appreciate her ability to create a sense of tension and suspense that keeps them hooked.

Reasons for Recommendation

  1. Suspenseful Thriller: Verity is recommended for readers who enjoy suspenseful thrillers that keep them on the edge of their seats. The book's unique plot and well-crafted tension make it a compulsive read that will leave readers wanting more.

  2. Dark and Twisted Nature: If you enjoy reading books that push boundaries and explore darker themes, Verity is highly recommended. The book's willingness to tackle taboo subjects makes it a must-read for those who appreciate unconventional storytelling.

  3. Engaging Characters: Fans of complex characters will appreciate the deviously flawed characters in Verity. Lowen's struggle to navigate her own desires and the truth she uncovers adds depth to the story, while Jeremy's enigmatic nature keeps readers guessing until the end.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

  1. Graphic Content: Some readers may find Verity's graphic content distressing or triggering. The book contains scenes of child abuse, murder, attempted home abortion, adultery, and descriptive fatal accidents that may be unsettling for sensitive readers. It is recommended that readers are aware of these content warnings before diving into the book.

  2. Lack of Character Development: Some readers feel that the characters in Verity lack distinct voices and depth. While the plot is captivating, the characterization falls flat, making it difficult for readers to connect with the characters on an emotional level. This may be a drawback for those who prioritize character development in their reading experience.

Conclusion

Verity by Colleen Hoover is a psychological thriller that has captivated readers with its unique plot and dark themes. The book's exploration of taboo subjects and complex characters make it a compelling read for fans of suspenseful thrillers. While some readers appreciate its originality and willingness to push boundaries, others find it lacking in character development and graphic content. Overall, Verity is recommended for those who enjoy unconventional storytelling and are willing to explore darker themes in their reading experience.