Hoover's It Starts With Us named W H Smith's Book of the Year

Colleen Hoover’s latest novel It Starts With Us (Simon & Schuster) has been named W H Smith’s Book of the Year for 2022.

The follow-up to Hoover’s TikTok sensation It Ends With Us, the book delves into character Atlas’ past, following Lily as she embraces a second chance at true love while navigating a jealous ex-husband.

“I’m so honoured and ecstatic that It Starts With Us is W H Smith’s Book of the Year 2022," Hoover said. "The past couple of years have been nothing short of madness, and I want to thank every bookseller who has recommended one of my books and every reader who has lent a copy to a friend. I hope I’ve done right by you with the conclusion to Lily and Atlas’ story!”

Ashley Bruce, senior buyer of adult books at W H Smith commented: “It would be impossible to look back on 2022 without recognising the significance that social media, Tiktok and Colleen Hoover have had on our book sales and customers’ reading choices this year. 

"Colleen’s books have introduced a whole new generation to the joy of reading and it has been wonderful to see these readers go on to discover many more new authors after devouring her books. At W H Smith, we were so excited when It Starts With Us was announced, and we are delighted to be able to recognise Colleen’s impact and success with our Book of the Year selection this year.”

The title was recently announced as S&S UK’s most pre-ordered title to date.