Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry

When Margaret Ives, the famously reclusive heiress, invites Alice to the picturesque Little Crescent Island, Alice knows this could be her big break. Tasked with uncovering the truth behind one of the most infamous families in modern history, Alice is determined to land the story that could change her career and her life. But there’s a catch, she’s not alone. The formidable, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Hayden Anderson is also in contention for the job. However, they’re both given one month to prove they’re the best writer for the job.

Problems soon arise when Alice and Hayden realise that Margaret is only sharing intriguing fragments of her life story with each of them. Thanks to an ironclad non-disclosure agreement, neither can compare notes, making the truth even harder to piece together. And as professional rivalry sparks personal chemistry, they are left wondering who will ultimately win the right to tell Margaret’s story?

At its core, this is a novel about storytelling, who gets to shape the narrative and how the truth can shift depending on perspective. The story-within-a-story structure, where Margaret’s past is gradually revealed through the journalists’ competing viewpoints, keeps the pages flying. 

Highly recommended for fans of romantic comedies with a twist! Emily’s fans will enjoy her trademark wit and dialogue, while newcomers will be quickly hooked by the plot. If you’re looking for a novel that balances romance and suspense, you’ll enjoy Great Big Beautiful Life. Follow Emily Henry online.

Reviewer: Andrea Molloy

Penguin