“I hear the crack of his skull before the spattering of blood reaches me.” This, Ladies and gentlemen is the very first line of the book – “Verity” by Colleen Hoover. A wild ride filled with suspense, romance and some seriously dark twists. It’s not just a page-turner, it’s a book that messes with your mind and keeps you on the edge until the very end. There is this another line:
“What you read will taste so bad at times, you’ll want to spit it out, but you’ll swallow these words and they will become part of you, part of your gut, and you will hurt because of them. Yet…even with my generous warning…you’re going to continue to ingest my words, because here you are. Human. Curious. Carry on.”
This is where one of the characters describe how autobiographies should be ugly, honest and terrifying. I got chills when she said that an autobiography is at best when one walk away from it with an uncomfortable distaste for its author. An autobiography encouraging the reader to like the author is not a true autobiography. And this book revolves around such a autobiography.
Characters You Can’t Forget
First, Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer who gets the chance of a lifetime when she’s asked to complete a series for the best-selling author Verity Crawford. Lowen is relatable and flawed, making her journey feel so read. She’s dealing with her own issues and we can’t help but root for her as she navigates this twisted world. Then there’s Verity – oh boy, Verity. I won’t spoil anything but let’s just say she’s not who you think she is. Honestly, I can’t actually understand her either. Plus, there’s a love interest, Jeremy, who adds a deliciously complicated layer to the story.
The Setup
Verity is incapacitated after a horrific accident, leaving behind a mess of unfinished manuscripts and a haunting secret. As Lowen digs through Verity’s notes, she finds her autobiography (yes, the one I talked about in introduction) and uncovers some chilling truths that leaves us questioning everything, including our sanity.
The Vibe
What I love most about this book is the unsettling atmosphere. Colleen Hoover has a knack for creating tension in her stories and this one is no exception. This one is so gripping, with twists that will have you grasping out loud (seriously, my sister thought I was losing it, finally). However, the pacing is perfect, balancing between the thrilling plot and character development.
Themes to Ponder
Beyond suspense, “Verity” tackles the themes like love, betrayal, and the lengths people go to for their art. It really makes us think about the nature of truth and how it can be manipulated. As Lowen uncovers more about Verity, we’re left questioning the reliability of the narrator. It’s a psychological rollercoaster that lingers in your mind long after you turn the last page. And is totally worth it. However, “No matter which way I look at it, it’s clear that Verity was a master at manipulating the truth. The only question that remains is: Which truth was she manipulating?” This, ladies and gentlemen are the very last lines. If you could figure this out please do tell me as well.
Final Thoughts
People who read or write suspense novels always find situations and people suspicious in one way or another. This is why I don’t want to read suspense novels. I love to see the world with a positive point of view no matter how fucked up it is. But this book is so thought-provoking and emotionally charged that I would recommend this to everyone mostly for two reasons. First it is such a must-read book and secondly to mess with their minds (Bahahahahah).
So, if you’re in the mood for a book that combines psychological thriller vibes with a touch of romance, “Verity” is a must read. Just be prepared for some jaw-dropping revelations that’ll make you want to discuss it with everyone you know!
So, have you read “Verity”? What did you think? Let’s chat in the comments! Make sure to check out my Instagram and Pinterest feed as well!
