Review of Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
As a long-time admirer of Emily Henry’s deft storytelling, I felt an irresistible pull toward Great Big Beautiful Life. Perhaps it was the tantalizing prospect of a book centered around writers vying for the opportunity to tell a captivating story, or the promise of rich character exploration against the idyllic backdrop of Little Crescent Island. Once I delved in, I found myself swept away—not just by the plot twists, but by the deeply emotional currents that ran beneath the surface.
At its heart, this novel explores themes of ambition, identity, and the complexities of human connection. Alice Scott, an endlessly optimistic aspiring writer, and Hayden Anderson, a well-established but cynical Pulitzer Prize winner, are both tasked with winning the chance to chronicle the enigmatic life of Margaret Ives, a former socialite cloaked in mystery. What initially appears to be a straightforward competition quickly unfolds into a multi-layered narrative that intertwines their individual stories with Margaret’s fascinating yet tragic life.
Henry’s writing style is nothing short of enchanting. Her prose flows effortlessly, balancing humor and poignancy while painting vivid pictures of both setting and emotion. The dynamic between Alice and Hayden is beautifully crafted, morphing from rivalry into an authentic bond that feels both natural and compelling. Each interaction is laced with palpable tension; I found myself rooting for Alice, feeling her determination and vulnerability as she navigates the precarious waters of competition and romance. One particularly memorable quote, “There are always three versions of stories: yours, mine, and the truth,” perfectly captures the essence of both Margaret’s complex narrative and the budding relationship between our leads.
While some readers may find the pacing a bit slow at the onset, I appreciated the deliberate buildup. It allows for thorough character development and deep dives into Margaret’s fascinating past. The stark contrast between Hayden’s brooding demeanor and Alice’s sunny disposition creates a delightful push-and-pull that is a joy to witness, as their relationship evolves based on shared experiences and a growing understanding of one another.
What truly resonated with me, beyond the romance, was the shared journey of discovering identity and truth. Through Alice’s efforts to unravel the layers of Margaret’s past, we also see her exploring her own insecurities and seeking validation not just in her career but in familial relationships. Their story became a poignant exploration of love—both romantic and platonic—highlighting the myriad forms it can take and the inherent bravery required to embrace it.
Great Big Beautiful Life is sure to resonate with readers who enjoy character-driven narratives brimming with emotion and subtle sophistication. Fans of literary fiction with a splash of romance, much like those of Taylor Jenkins Reid, will find a lot to adore here.
In closing, Henry has given us a novel that intertwines the allure of storytelling with the depth of human experience—it’s heartwarming, engaging, and profoundly relatable. My experience with this book was refreshing and cathartic, leaving me with a sense of gratitude for both the characters’ journeys and my own. If you haven’t added Great Big Beautiful Life to your TBR list yet, I wholeheartedly suggest you do; you won’t want to miss this beautiful literary adventure.