The beloved queen of contemporary romance steps into new territory with her latest novel, The Great Big Beautiful Life, released on April 22, 2025. Emily Henry, known for bestsellers such as Beach Read and Book Lovers, has many fans who devour each story. With the newly published book, Henry delivers a vibrant, layered story filled with competition, secrets, and unexpected connections.
By Klaudia Hostynska – Features Editor
Photo: Angie Raney
The Great Big Beautiful Life focuses on two writers, positive and ambitious Alice Scott and serious Pulitzer Prize-winner Hayden Anderson. Both characters head to Little Crescent Island to compete for the chance to write the life story of the mysterious Margaret Ives. Once a glamorous tabloid fixture and heir to a scandalous family fortune, Margaret has been out of the public eye for decades. Now, she’s offering the two writers a one-month trial period, at the end of which she’ll choose who gets to tell her story.
Alice is confident that her friendliness and optimism will help her win Margaret over. Meanwhile, Hayden’s serious attitude shows he views Alice as real competition, and the unexpected chemistry between them isn’t making things easier.
“I knew this book was going to be big, in some way, it reminds me of Verity,” said Alfie Smith, 22, who’s a graphic designer in Sittingbourne. “I generally like books which focus on journalism since I wanted to do that previously.”
Social media is also buzzing. On TikTok’s BookTok, videos tagged #EmilyHenry have topped millions of views, with readers trying to find a theory about which version of Margaret’s life story is the real one. The early GoodReads reviews shown below represent how much impact Henry has on her readers.
Although others share a different opinion, “I was pretty upset that there’s not much romance going on, that’s what I like to read about, all her other books were pretty great, but with this one it’s like she changed her way of writing,” said Julianna Kallos, 33, who works as a doctor in Budapest.
The Great Big Beautiful Life brings Henry’s usual humour, along with emotional depth, while adding more twists, secrets and surprises. Some might call it her most layered novel yet, while others disagree compared to her previous way of writing.
“My girlfriend reads her books as well, we always share our thoughts after, and I think with this one we spoke for over an hour, there’s just so much to unravel,” said Smith.
With a dazzling mix of competition, chemistry, and hidden truths, the book promises readers a story where every narrator has a secret, and the real ending depends on who you believe. Whether you’re drawn in by the romance or mystery, Henry’s novel offers something for every kind of reader, so grab your new copy before it disappears from the shelves.
Credit: Klaudia Hostynska
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