The Mighty Have Fallen: Why Author Colleen Hoover Is Currently Facing Backlash

The Mighty Have Fallen: Why Author Colleen Hoover Is Facing Backlash

Once hailed as a literary sensation with a devoted fan base, Coleen Hoover is currently facing a wave of backlash, with some of her books being challenged or banned in certain areas. But what caused this shift from adoration to controversy? Here’s a closer look at why Colleen Hoover’s work has stirred up strong reactions.

Recently, former fans and readers of Collen Hoover novels have been caught uploading videos where they turn Colleen Hoover books from cover to back jacket (front to back.) Have you seen this trend on social media? I have. And I know why.

Readers hope to send a message about the author’s works that they don’t condone certain topics being glamorized or romanticized in her writing. It seems to be a theme in many of her novels. There is power in doing this, however, there’s also going to be a lot of frustrated librarians and B&N employees who will work overtime, flipping spines.

As a fan of the New Adult, Contemporary Romance, and Women’s Fiction genres, I read almost all of Coleen Hoover’s novels. I have cited certain paragraphs from “Verity” and “Layla” with my students as examples of strong descriptive writing. However, recently I'm less inclined to cite her as a source of good authorship.

I read the book “It Ends with Us” during the pandemic. And though I believe the DV theme in her recently optioned novel was an accurate and relatable depiction of DV and why people sometimes stay with their abusive partners, I find books that romanticize abusive partners to be problematic. Ms. Hoover has recently received backlash for this book and some of her other works.

Controversial Themes and Content

I’m an open book, and I bare my soul about my experience with domestic violence with the hope that it might help others. One of my stories regarding DV was “shortlisted” in one contest and was a finalist in another. (Link below)

Backpedal

Words have power.

Speaking of powerful words, the day I left, I went to a support group for DV survivors. The moderator told me to read “The Battered Woman” by Lenore E. Walker. After the meeting, I raced to the store and read every word.

This book saved my life.

The Battered Woman by Lenore E. Walker

I’m grateful for what happened during my dark time in L.A. because my experience helped break a pattern. It helped me find the courage to leave. It helped me become the person I am today—a mother of two kind, strong, confident children.

I believe the subject of DV needs to be openly discussed; the more we talk about it, the less power abusers hold over their victims. The more we discuss it, the more we teach people it’s better to leave. I am grateful this is becoming “part of the conversation.”

So, I appreciate Ms. Hoover for bringing awareness to difficult topics. Her novels delve into issues such as toxic relationships, abuse, mental health struggles, and sexual violence. However, these topics should be handled with sensitivity, and critics are arguing that Hoover’s portrayal of these issues might not be appropriate for younger audiences and is seen as romanticizing unhealthy dynamics.

Blake Lively, who portrays the protagonist Lily Bloom in the movie version of “It Ends with Us,” said in a recent interview, “Grab your friends, wear your florals, and run out to see it.”

Excuse me?

Neither the book nor the movie is a Rom-Com, but the way they marketed it, one would think it was just that. It should be noted that the co-star and director, Justin Baldoni has been expressing the seriousness of the issues and appears less “Out of tune.” Regarding the marketing, they could have done better. They could have been more sensitive. A trigger warning could have been issued.

As a result of not doing so, Ms. Hoover’s books have come under fire in school districts and libraries, where concerns about age-appropriateness and the potential impact on impressionable readers have led to calls for restrictions or outright bans.

Romanticizing abusers is never okay.

Never.

The Power of Social Media and Public Opinion

Colleen Hoover’s recent success has been significantly fueled by social media, with platforms like TikTok and Instagram spreading the word about her books. Ironically, the platforms that helped elevate her popularity have also become her undertaker. As mentioned, readers and influencers have taken to social media platforms to express their discomfort with certain aspects of Hoover’s work, highlighting scenes or character dynamics they find problematic.

Although I appreciate the right to free speech, the flipping covers tactic is annoying—sorry librarian friends. However, it started a conversation about the author’s responsibility, particularly in romance genres, to depict healthy relationships and avoid harmful stereotypes.

I’m tired of seeing “Alphas” in Romance genres—yes, many may disagree, and I respect their opinion—but I’m not alone in this thinking. Recently there has been an uptick of consent and equality in romance and romantic scenes.

As cultural conversations around issues like consent, representation, and mental health have evolved, so too have expectations for authors and their work. What might have been overlooked or accepted in the past is now subject to scrutiny. In this context, some of Hoover’s earlier works are being re-evaluated, with readers questioning whether they align with current values and norms.

In Conclusion

Colleen Hoover’s books may have wooed millions of readers, but they also sparked controversy. The debate surrounding her work has ignited dialogue around literature, free speech, and authors’ responsibilities. As the conversation continues, it’s clear that the impact of her writing will be felt for months to come.

Now excuse me while I add a disclaimer to my current query letter.

~ Caryn

*If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, you can seek help through the following resources:

1. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

2. Visit www.thehotline.org for anonymous, confidential online chats