Great Big Beautiful Life By Emily Henry Book Review
Ever wondered what would happen if two very different journalists were forced to compete for the chance to tell the real story of a mysterious, reclusive heiress? That’s exactly the setup in Emily Henry’s latest novel, Great Big Beautiful Life. A swoony, clever, and deeply emotional ride that mixes romance, mystery, and family drama in a way only Henry can.
This book is firmly in the contemporary romance genre but with a twist. It’s about Alice Scott, an optimist still chasing her big break in writing, and Hayden Anderson, a Pulitzer, winning journalist with a serious grumpy streak. Both are sent to a small, picturesque island off Georgia’s coast to compete for permission to write the biography of Margaret Ives, an octogenarian who’s been reclusive for decades and belongs to one of the most scandalous families in 20th-century America. The catch? Margaret only gives each of them fragments of her story, and they can’t share what they learn because of a strict NDA. So, Alice and Hayden not only compete professionally but also deal with a growing, slow burn attraction to each other.
What really makes Great Big Beautiful Life stand out is Emily Henry’s signature writing style Witty, warm, and full of emotional depth. The characters aren’t just your typical rom-com leads; Alice’s sunny optimism contrasts beautifully with Hayden’s brooding cynicism, creating that irresistible “grumpy meets sunshine” dynamic. Plus, the setting of Little Crescent Island feels alive and intimate, almost like a character itself, giving the story that perfect cozy yet mysterious vibe. The story cleverly blends present-day romance with the unfolding history of Margaret’s family, a saga that touches on Hollywood’s golden age, the gold rush, and tragic love stories, adding richness and complexity to the novel.
Readers have been raving about how this book isn’t just fluff. Iit’s a “thoughtful meditation on what makes a life well lived,” according to Publishers Weekly. Many highlight the emotional depth beyond the romance, with themes about family secrets, the stories we tell ourselves, and how love can both complicate and heal. People are also loving the pacing. Slow but captivating and the chemistry between Alice and Hayden, which feels genuine and earned rather than forced. It’s been called one of Emily Henry’s best, especially for fans of layered slow burns like those in The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.
From my perspective, if you love character-driven stories with a mix of romance and mystery, plus a little bit of family drama thrown in, this book will probably be a hit for you. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy emotional complexity alongside their feel-good moments. However, if you prefer straightforward rom-coms without heavier themes or slower pacing that lets relationships and mysteries build gradually, this one might test your patience a bit.
All in all, Great Big Beautiful Life feels like a rare blend of charm, wit, and heartache. Emily Henry challenging herself and delivering a story that’s as beautiful as the title suggests. If you’re into slow-burn romances with layered characters and a touch of intrigue, this is definitely worth adding to your reading list.
If that sounds like your kind of story, definitely check it out. And if you’ve read it, let me know what you thought!