Title: WOMAN DOWN
Author: COLLEEN HOOVER
ISBN: 9781542025614
Publisher: Montlake
Pages: 299
Source: Private Copy
Her words used to set the page on fire. But a viral backlash over her latest film adaptation forced Petra Rose to take a hiatus, resulting in missed deadlines and an overdue mortgage. Branded a fraud and fame-hungry opportunist, she learned the hard way what happens when the internet turns on you. And she’s been uninspired to write ever since.
Now, with her next suspense novel outlined and savings nearly gone, she retreats to a secluded lakeside cabin, hoping to find inspiration. It’s Petra’s last-ditch attempt to save her career—and herself.
Then he shows up.
Detective Nathaniel Saint arrives with disturbing news, his presence igniting a creativity in her she thought long since burned out. Petra’s words return in a rush, and her fictional cop character begins to mirror the very real cop who’s becoming her muse.
Their “research” sessions blur the lines between fantasy and reality. Each glance, every touch pulls Petra deeper into a world she thought she’d never lose herself in again. She’s never felt more alive. But inspiration this powerful comes at a cost.
When Saint starts taking his role in her career a little too seriously, Petra’s forced to confront the chaos she created. But doing so could cost her more than the reputation she’s been trying to salvage. The reputation the world wrote for her—the reputation only she can reclaim.
Official Summary
11 June 2026
This was my first Hoover book since Layla – which I did not enjoy (apologies to the fans!). The blurb held plenty of promise, and I am happy to say I was not disappointed.
Petra Rose faces severe backlash after the film adaptation of her last book fails to meet fan expectations. (Side note – is it really fair to give authors such a hard time over film adaptations? The book is almost always better, so why are we still surprised when the movie disappoints?)
Battling writer’s block, mounting financial pressure, and a looming deadline, Petra desperately needs to finish her latest novel. But where does inspiration come from when creativity has dried up?
Then comes a knock at the cabin door.
Petra meets Saint – the perfect inspiration for her new character, Cam. But inspiration soon turns into obsession, and Petra finds herself crossing lines she never imagined she would cross.
Hoover focuses heavily on the impact that fans and social media can have on an author, which may feel a little close to home for some (Alicia included). Even though I am not particularly invested in adaptation debates, I found myself agreeing with the author’s perspective. Fans can be incredibly harsh.
The story is emotional and filled with surprises, with some seriously steamy scenes involving Saint. So, even if parts of this novel feel like a response to criticism and harsh fan commentary, my heart still went out to Petra – even when she stepped into morally grey territory and crossed forbidden lines.
This is a strong, compelling novel that leaves you wondering just how much of her own experiences and emotions Hoover poured into the story.
At the end of the day, this was an addictive read that had me glued to the pages. I loved it.
Also by Colleen Hoover
VERITY
Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish.
Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity’s notes and outlines, hoping to find enough material to get her started. What Lowen doesn’t expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read. Page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity’s recollection of what really happened the day her daughter died.
Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy, knowing its contents would devastate the already grieving father. But as Lowen’s feelings for Jeremy begin to intensify, she recognizes all the ways she could benefit if he were to read his wife’s words. After all, no matter how devoted Jeremy is to his injured wife, a truth this horrifying would make it impossible for him to continue to love her.
About the Author
Author bio from the author’s site
Colleen Hoover is the #1 New York Times and International bestselling author of twenty five novels and novellas. Hoover’s novels fall into the New Adult and Young Adult contemporary romance categories, as well as psychological thriller.
Colleen Hoover is published by Atria Books, Grand Central Publishing, Montlake Romance, and HarperCollins Publishers.
Colleen is also a scriptwriter, producer, and co-founder of the production company HeartBones Entertainment.
Her novels, It Ends With Us, Regretting You and Reminders of Him have been adapted into film. It Ends With Us is now available on Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, GooglePlay and AppleTV. Regretting You is available on Paramount +, Amazon Prime, YouTube, GooglePlay and AppleTV. You can find Reminders of Him on Amazon Prime, YouTube, GooglePlay and AppleTV.
Colleen’s other title, Verity is headed to the big screen on October 2, 2026.
Colleen lives in Texas with her husband and three sons. Unfortunately, she also loves Diet Pepsi, 5 Hour Energy and El Charro.
Thank you for allowing me to share my opinion, I know there has been loads of debating about this one. At the end of the day, I read the story and enjoyed it – I am not to concerned about the inspiration for writing it. Until next time…. Happy Reading!
