Walking to work, protagonist Lowen Ashleigh hears a man’s skull “pop like a champagne bottle” after getting hit by a car.
“Verity” by Colleen Hoover didn’t grow any less unsettling after the opening scene and truly lived up to its name as a psychological thriller. This chaotic story starts when author Lowen Ashleigh receives the daunting task of completing author Verity Crawford’s remaining books in her villainous series. Verity is disabled after a car accident; but her husband, Jeremy, is determined for someone to finish her series. After accepting the offer, Lowen moves into the Crawford’s house.
Trouble starts when Lowen uncovers a hidden manuscript she believes is Verity’s autobiography. Instead of describing Verity as a loving mother and wife, the manuscript depicts her as her daughters’ monstrous killer.
Ironically, Verity means truth which Lowen searches for throughout the book. While battling these unsettling realizations about Verity, Lowen develops feelings for Jeremy. Lines blur and reality vanishes.
Per usual, Colleen’s writing didn’t disappoint. It’s descriptive yet simple and easy to digest. Additionally, the characters are morally complex and possess depth to them which makes for an intriguing read.
Plentiful plot twists compel readers to continuously turn the page. The characters’ morality goes out the window. The truth is twisted to the point no one knows reality. And the ending is up for interpretation.
“Verity” will make for an interesting movie, soon-to-be produced by Amazon Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and is sure to scare viewers. Don’t pick up “Verity” thinking it’s another one of Hoover’s signature romances. However, it’s a page-turner worth reading for those who love psychological thrillers.
