Book Review: Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry

Emily Henry has crafted a story that is as much an ode to the power of storytelling as it is a romance. From the very first page—which opens with a poignant quote about the "multiple sides to a story and then the truth"—I was completely hooked. It is one of those rare, immersive reads that stayed on my mind whenever I had to put it down.

The Journalists and the Craft

As a writer, I found the protagonists, Alice and Hayden, absolutely fascinating. Seeing the world through the eyes of two journalists competing for the story of a lifetime added a layer of professional tension that felt high-stakes and intellectual. The novel explores the weight of memoirs and the sacred act of "writing things down" to ensure our stories aren’t lost to time.

A Richly Woven Narrative

The way the narrative weaves Margaret Ives’ historical mystery with the modern-day journey of Alice and Hayden is incredibly thoughtful. It creates a rich, textured reading experience where the past and present are constantly in conversation.

The Romance

The relationship between Alice and Hayden is a standout. Their connection grows in such an organic, authentic way that you can’t help but cheer for them. It never feels forced; instead, you feel the magnetic pull between them long before they do.

Truth and Legacy

What moved me most was how the book handles "generational curses." We all have elements of our family history we wish we could erase or distance ourselves from. This story shows that there is profound power in honesty and that the truth is the only thing that can truly set us free from the weight of our lineage.

Atmosphere and Setting

One of the most enchanting elements of this novel is the Georgia coast. The setting is absolutely stunning, providing a lush, atmospheric backdrop where a little bit of coastal magic seems to linger in the air. It is the perfect place for a path of romance to unfold; the scenery feels so vivid that you can almost smell the salt air and hear the rustle of the palms.

Final Verdict

By the time I reached the final page, I wasn't ready to say goodbye. I wanted more time with these characters and more of the atmospheric world Henry built. If you love stories about the power of the written word and the courage it takes to be honest, this is a must-read.