It Starts with Us

It was fascinating to read the continuation of Lily and Atlas' story. It had been months since I read [b:It Ends with Us 27362503 It Ends with Us (It Ends with Us, #1) Colleen Hoover https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1470427482l/27362503.SY75.jpg 43940889] which was actually the beginning of their story. I was surprised how much of the original story came back to me. (I've read a lot of books since that one.)I really thought that Ryle, Lily's first husband—but not her first love—would be less of a factor than he was in this story. However, it seems leaving an abusive relationship isn't the end of the victim's problems, particularly when you are still co-parenting with the abuser.My daughter works with victims of domestic violence and it's insane how difficult it is to escape an abusive relationship. (And how deadly the consequences can be.) I thought this book portrayed that aspect well. Having supportive family members is a huge help and not something that always happens in real life. One part of the book that seemed unrealistic revolved around the character Atlas. He's overly perfect. Good-looking, great cook, endless patience, super understanding. In fact, he didn't seem like the product of an abusive home, which he's supposed to be. That aside, I thought the book was excellent and the lack of personality flaws in Atlas wasn't enough for me to even deduct a star. Worth the read for sure.