TL;DR
'After' by Anna Todd is a passionate romance novel that follows Tessa’s tumultuous relationship with Hardin, transforming her life in unexpected ways.
What is After about
'After' is the first book in Anna Todd's series that became an Internet sensation on Wattpad. The story centers on Tessa, a college freshman, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she meets the mysterious Hardin. Inspired by One Direction’s Harry Styles, the novel explores themes of love, betrayal, and personal growth. Tessa's journey with Hardin is both passionate and tumultuous, revealing dark secrets and challenging her view of the world.
After 5 Key Takeaways
Tessa's Freshman Year
Tessa enters college as a diligent and focused student, ready to excel in her new environment. Her life is orderly until she meets Hardin, a brooding and complicated young man.
Tessa Meets Hardin
Hardin's rebellious nature and dark past intrigue Tessa, and despite their differences, they find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other. Their relationship begins tumultuously, marked by intense passion and conflict.
Uncovering Secrets
As their relationship deepens, Tessa discovers that Hardin harbors painful secrets from his past, which threaten to derail their romance. This revelation forces her to confront her own preconceptions and insecurities.
Betrayal and Heartbreak
Hardin's actions lead to a major betrayal that shatters Tessa's trust. Their relationship hits rock bottom, leaving Tessa to decide whether to forgive Hardin or to move on.
Transformation and Growth
Throughout the novel, Tessa undergoes significant personal growth. Her experiences with Hardin teach her about resilience, self-worth, and the complexities of human relationships.
Top After Quotes
- 'Just because he can't love you the way you want him to doesn't mean he doesn't love you with everything he has.'
- 'You can't just turn off your feelings because the other person did. The heart isn't like that.'
Who should read After?
'After' is perfect for fans of intense romance novels that explore the depth of human emotions and personal growth. Readers who enjoy character-driven stories with dramatic twists will find Tessa and Hardin’s journey captivating.
After Best Reviews
- 'After' is a wildly addictive read that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Todd's character development and plot twists make it a must-read for romance enthusiasts. - Cosmopolitan
People also liked these summaries
After FAQs
Is 'After' based on a true story?
'After' originated as a fanfiction inspired by One Direction's Harry Styles, but it is a fictional story created by Anna Todd.
Is there an 'After' book 5?
Yes, there are five novels in the 'After' series, including 'After,' 'After We Collided,' 'After We Fell,' 'After Ever Happy,' and the prequel, 'Before.'
What is Hardin's dark secret in 'After'?
In 'After Ever Happy,' it is revealed that Hardin was sexually abused and coerced into a relationship at a young age, which deeply affects his behavior and relationships.