After by Anna Todd garners mixed reviews. Positively, readers applaud its compelling characters and dramatic plot, which effectively captures intense first love and its complications. However, critics highlight its controversial relationship dynamics and clichéd writing. The book's polarizing elements make it a hit among some, yet off-putting to others.

A reader who would enjoy After by Anna Todd is typically a young adult or new adult looking for an intense, passion-filled romance. Fans of Fifty Shades of Grey or The Twilight Saga would appreciate the emotional rollercoaster and complex relationships explored in this book.

After by Anna Todd follows Tessa, a college freshman, who becomes embroiled in a tumultuous relationship with Hardin, a boy with a troubled past. Despite having a stable boyfriend, Tessa is irresistibly drawn to Hardin, leading to a cycle of arguments, intense attractions, and eventual heartbreak as she uncovers a shocking secret about their relationship's origin.

Romantic / Emotional / Bittersweet / Challenging

- After by Anna Todd was originally published as a serialized story on the social writing platform Wattpad, where it gained over a billion reads, showcasing its massive fan-driven popularity before being traditionally published.
- The character Hardin Scott in After is inspired by Harry Styles, as Anna Todd was a huge fan of the band One Direction and crafted the story partly based on her fandom.
- After has been compared to Fifty Shades of Grey by some readers, mainly due to its origins as fan fiction and its romantic themes, yet it has carved its unique path in contemporary new adult literature.

**Tessa**  
An organized and responsible college freshman who experiences significant changes in her life and personality as she navigates new friendships and relationships.

**Hardin**  
A brooding and secretive college student from England, whose complex personality intrigues Tessa despite his rude behavior.

**Noah**  
Tessa’s loyal and committed boyfriend from high school, who contrasts sharply with Hardin’s unpredictable nature.

**Landon**  
Tessa’s responsible and kind college friend, who shares her love for structure and acts as a connection to Hardin’s family.

**Steph**  
Tessa’s college roommate with a devil-may-care attitude, whose influence challenges Tessa’s modest and responsible nature.

**Tessa's Mother**  
A perfectionist who is critical and controlling, emphasizing the importance of appearances and expressing concern over Tessa’s changes.

Anna Todd

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After

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Before You Read

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Overview

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After Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 12

After Prologue-Chapter 12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-21

After Chapters 13-21 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 22-36

After Chapters 22-36 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 37-50

After Chapters 37-50 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 51-68

After Chapters 51-68 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 69-79

After Chapters 69-79 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 80-97

After Chapters 80-97 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

After Character Analysis

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Themes

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Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

After Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

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After

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