“Love isn’t something you can cup in your hands, and I have to believe that means it’s something that can’t ever be lost.”

As a long-time Emily Henry lover—yes, I’ve read every single one of her published books and own multiple items of her book-themed merchandise—it’s safe to say I was elated when I first got my hands on her newest release, Great Big Beautiful Life. 

The story follows Alice Scott, a bubbly, up-and-coming journalist who tracks down the notorious heiress from one of the 20th century’s most scandalous dynasties, Margaret Ives, to write a biography of her opulent, yet tragic life. However, once Alice arrives on the coastal Georgia island, she soon realizes she must compete against Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Hayden Anderson to write a larger-than-life story about the elusive tabloid princess. 

Naturally, it’s not an Emily Henry novel without some tension, so both writers must work independently under an NDA. Despite being confined to a tiny island, the two cannot share any information they have learned from Margaret with one another. As Alice and Hayden navigate this tricky arrangement, a powerful connection forms as they unravel the many layers of Margaret Ives.

Now, I’m a girl who loves romance books; in fact, it’s one of my favorite genres. Nevertheless, one of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to the genre surrounds the rarity of finding a story with characters who feel fully formed. Oftentimes, the backstory of love interests peaks at tall, dark, and handsome. Great Big Beautiful Life, however, far exceeds those conventions. Each character feels authentic and necessary to the story.  

While the current timeline includes hints of romance and deals with impactful themes, the main story revolves around unraveling the truth behind why Margaret Ives chose to abandon the spotlight decades ago. 

One of my favorite aspects of this book is how the writing makes the reader feel like an investigative journalist alongside Alice and Hayden. Each new revelation sparks hundreds of questions, enticing the reader to the bigger picture. Every aspect of Margaret’s story—from the media’s wrongful portrayal of her image to the messy scandals and perseverance through times of grief—make this book unforgettable.

The level of world-building that Great Big Beautiful Life achieves sets it apart from other Emily Henry novels. Jumping between decades, the reader explores the mysteries of Hollywood while simultaneously experiencing the classic small-town feel of Little Crescent Island. Even though Great Big Beautiful Life veers from Henry’s catalog in terms of genre focus, her writing still carries the immense emotion found in all her other releases.

I love how both storylines feel fully developed without one overpowering the other. While slipping between the elusive life of Margaret Ives to present-day Alice and Hayden, I never felt bored. In fact, I wish I could’ve spent more time within their individual stories. 

Great Big Beautiful Life is for anyone who appreciates a layered, character-driven story. This book is rich and the message of love, legacy, and sacrifice is hauntingly stunning. Emily Henry outdid herself once more. 

“I welcome her to this great big beautiful life.”