“Colleen Hoover's novel 'Reminders of Him' is being adapted into a film”

A film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's novel “Reminders of Him” ​​is in the works at Universal Pictures. The studio emerged victorious in a bidding war for the book rights and plans to release the film in theaters on February 13, 2026, before Valentine's Day.

Hoover, whose bestselling novel It Ends With Us was adapted into a hit film starring Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, is co-writing the screenplay with Lauren Levine. Described as a “transformative feature film about motherhood, forgiveness and the power of one love to heal even the most broken heart,” the story follows Kenna Rowan, who returns to her hometown after five years in prison for a tragic mistake. She hopes to reconnect with her young daughter, even though everyone is careful to keep them apart. Only one person in the area hasn't avoided her, and that's local bar owner Ledger Ward, who becomes an important part of Kenna's life. The novel, published in 2022, has sold over 6.5 million copies worldwide and been translated into 45 languages. Casting has yet to be announced.

“I’m thrilled to be working with Universal to bring Kenna Rowan’s world to life,” said Hoover. “I hear from many readers who tell me that they have found something of themselves in her story about living with and through tragedy and the often messy and imperfect work of healing and starting a new chapter in life. I’m thrilled because “Reminders of Him” also has a special place in my heart. I am confident that Universal is the right partner to do this story justice.”

Levine has worked at MTV, Nickelodeon and Walden Media and served as a producer on the 2007 tearjerker Bridge to Terabithia, directed by Josh Hutcherson and AnnaSophia Robb. She and Hoover will also produce through their newly formed production company, Heartbones Entertainment. Her goal with the banner was “to create something special for everyone,” Hoover said in a statement.

“This is a dream debut for Heartbones,” Levine said. “We couldn't have a stronger partner for our first film than Universal, or a project more representative of the stories we're passionate about telling than 'Reminders of Him.'” Colleen's legions of fans show that women are looking for more authentic stories about their lives yearn. Heartbones is committed to translating what made Colleen so successful in publishing into film, and we know these stories will resonate emotionally and commercially in the modern film business.”

“Reminders of Him” is Hoover’s second novel to hit the big screen. Sony released “It Ends With Us,” which became a sleeper hit over the summer, grossing $344 million worldwide. The film, which Baldoni directed, was extremely profitable despite its $25 million budget. A sequel should be inevitable since Hoover has already written a best-selling follow-up novel called It Starts With Us. Nevertheless, one can safely assume that the audience have I last saw Lily and Ryle – the two characters played by Lively and Baldoni in the film – and it was reported that the star and director didn't get along on set and probably wouldn't work together again.

Hoover, Levine and Heartbones Entertainment are repped by UTA and Allison Binder at Goodman, Genow, Schenkman, Smelkinson & Christopher. The deal was managed by UTA. Hoover's novels are represented by Jane Dystel at Dystel, Goderich & Bourret and Allison Binder at Goodman, Genow, Schenkman, Smelkinson & Christopher.