Justin Baldoni initially envisioned author Colleen Hoover as the writer for the screen adaptation of her novel “It Ends With Us” when his Wayfarer Studios secured the rights in 2019. Baldoni expressed to Hoover that she was the best fit for the project, given her personal connection to the story, which was written in honor of her mother. However, Hoover ultimately felt too close to the material to undertake the adaptation.
Hoover’s mother was a victim of domestic violence, an experience that profoundly influenced the author’s decision to write the book in 2016. Reflecting on the process, Hoover described “It Ends With Us” as the most challenging work she has ever created, revealing her struggles with the narrative, particularly her attachment to the character who becomes the abuser.
In her author’s note, Hoover stated that her intention was to capture the complexities of loving someone who inflicts pain and the often complicated nature of leaving such a relationship. She expressed newfound admiration for her mother after completing the book, acknowledging the difficulties her mother faced in leaving her abusive father when Hoover was only three.
Hoover dedicated the book to both her parents, conveying deep respect to her father despite his past actions. She vowed to remember him for his positive traits rather than his worst moments.
The novel has faced criticism, with some arguing that it romanticizes domestic violence, especially as it gained popularity as a romance title on social media. After announcing a coloring book featuring flower designs inspired by the novel in 2023, Hoover faced backlash for what some viewed as capitalizing on trauma; she ultimately decided to cancel the project.
Hoover clarified that her goal was not to represent all narratives surrounding domestic violence, emphasizing that “It Ends With Us” was specifically based on her mother’s experience. She acknowledged that while she drew from her parents’ lives for the characters of Lily and Ryle, she does not intend for their situation to be a definitive representation of domestic abuse.
The film adaptation, which Baldoni co-wrote, produced, and stars in, is directed by Christy Hall, who is known for her work on “Daddio.” “It Ends With Us” is set to premiere exclusively in theaters on Friday.