Great Big Beautiful Life: Reese's Book Club

4.5/5 This book was such a lovely read. Emily Henry is such an amazing author and I'll read anything she writes. Every time I read one of her books I'm laughing and crying (sad and happy tears) and I always love how the story comes together in the end. Her stories make my heart shatter and then the picks up the pieces and puts me back together again. She is always so good at subverting my expectations but not doing it in a way that makes it seem like she it doing it just for that. Meaning she isn't subverting expectations for the sake of it; her stories take me on a path that makes sense but is unexpected. This story is no different. I thought I had worked out who Jodie was in relation to Margaret and I had no idea that Hayden was related until near the end when Alice figured it out as well. I never would have guessed Cecil was involved in Margaret's story but looking back, maybe I should have since he was a semi-prominent character early on for no obvious reason. It was a lot of fun trying to piece things together and figure out how everyone fit into the story. I really enjoyed that we essentially got two love stories out of it and they were seamlessly intertwined. It was fun learning Margaret Ives version of her story while also reading about Alice and Hayden falling in love. Their story was so sweet and felt so real. I know they fell in love quickly but I know from experience that when you know, you know. Alice and Hayden just weren't as cautious as Jim and I early on but it was the same knowing feeling. Emily Henry does such a great job with her characters and the chemistry between them, I just can't get enough. Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to

As I read this book, I couldn’t help but draw comparisons to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. Both stories center around a reclusive woman from a glamorous past and the unraveling of her hidden truths through a writer’s lens. Alice isn’t handed this opportunity, she chases it. She’s a professional writer who’s long dreamed of telling Margaret’s story. She’s been following breadcrumbs across Reddit and obscure forums, chasing whispers of Margaret’s whereabouts after decades of silence. Her search is deeply personal, fueled by admiration, nostalgia, and a connection through her late father, who also loved Margaret’s mystique. What follows is a month-long writing competition. Margaret invites both Alice and another writer, Hayden, to stay on the island, granting them interviews and access to her story. At the end of their time, she’ll choose who gets to write her official biography. And of course, over the course of that month, feelings develop, secrets surface, and things take several emotional turns, some expected, others less so (no spoilers!). I was especially captivated by the story within the story, the one about Margaret and Cosmo. Their relationship held more intrigue and emotional weight for me than Hayden and Alice’s. At times, Hayden and Alice’s dynamic felt repetitive, and I never quite got that spark that makes you believe, of course she falls in love with him. Hayden didn’t have that magnetic quality that makes a romance feel inevitable or sweeping, and I never quite felt the kind of chemistry I crave in a true romance story. Still, I appreciated the premise and the slight shift in tone from Emily Henry’s previous novels. It’s more reflective than her usual work, though the writing still carries a familiar structure, predictable in some ways, even if the content is more ambitious. I found myself wondering whether the market is pushing authors into a certain kind of rhythm, one that’s easy to consume but occasionally lacking in surprise. Oddly enough, I may have enjoyed this book more than Henry’s previous works, but I wouldn’t reread it. For me, it lacked the charm and momentum that makes you want to stay up all night reading. It took me about 15 days to finally reach the point where I had to finish it. But I’m glad I did and I’ll definitely read her next book. I would recommend it for: Fans of Emily Henry’s previous novels, readers who enjoy light contemporary fiction with a reflective tone, and anyone drawn to stories about storytelling itself. Less ideal for those craving literary fiction or a sweeping, all-consuming romance.

I just finished, and I’m emotionally wrecked in the best way. This book hit me hard. Emily Henry crafted a story that pulled me in so deeply, it felt like I was unraveling a mystery. It wasn’t always easy to follow—some parts felt foggy, others were strikingly vivid—but the final picture? Absolutely breathtaking. It’s really two stories in one: the sweeping, emotional chronicle of Margaret Ives—her family, her loves, her losses—and the tender, heart-melting romance between Hayden Anderson and Alice Scott. These two threads aren’t separate; they’re reflections of one another, like sky meeting sea. “𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝘀𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺: 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀, 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵.” This quote truly captures the essence of Hayden and Alice’s intertwined journey as they take on the task of writing about the iconic Margaret Ives—a project that’s more than just a job; it’s a turning point. Margaret’s life, rich with legacy, marriage, and mystery, unfolds as a story within a story, keeping me hooked until the very last twist. The author layers the suspense beautifully, delivering two jaw-dropping reveals while building a slow-burn romance between Hayden and Alice. But let’s talk about Hayden. Hayden, a sharp yet guarded freelancer, begins with practical intentions but is slowly pulled deeper—into Margaret’s past and into Alice’s world. Their connection was like a slow dance, full of unspoken tension and perfect balance. I appreciated the portrayal of a romance where both characters are equals, intellectually and physically, offering a refreshing contrast to stereotypical pairings. Alice is the kind of character who makes you root for her from the start—bright, emotionally intelligent, and determined to prove herself. Her sweet curiosity about Hayden and those quiet wins—like when he finally says her name with softness—were so satisfying. Their connection grows through moments that feel honest and vulnerable—like when Hayden says, “Tell me something no one knows about you. I’m in love with you.” Or when he admits, “I don’t like people looking at me,” but reassures her with a soft, “Not you.” Ugh, those moments! They’re vulnerable, intimate, and perfectly placed against the backdrop of a job that could change everything for both of them. Emily Henry demonstrates narrative finesse in her dual timeline structure, allowing the suspense surrounding Margaret Ives to unfold in measured beats. Hayden and Alice’s investigation propels the story with a sense of steady intrigue, culminating in revelations that are both unexpected and logically grounded. The contrast between the quiet evolution of their romance and the dramatic arcs of Margaret’s life creates a carefully balanced narrative tension that keeps readers fully engaged. Great Big Beautiful Life swept me up in a world where love, legacy, and the pursuit of truth collide. Hayden and Alice’s relationship starts with a slow burn—yes, you need a little patience—but the payoff is so worth it. What begins as a gentle simmer turns into an emotional crescendo, layered against a dual storyline. The second storyline, centered on the fierce and unforgettable Margaret Ives, is a masterpiece on its own. Her life, entangled with family drama and an epic romance with Cosmos Sinclair, is mesmerizing. Together, both timelines create a rich, emotionally charged novel I’ll be thinking about for a long time.

This isn’t my favorite Emily Henry novel, but it’s also not my least favorite. I didn’t have as many issues with it as some readers seem to—but I understand the mixed reactions. The romance, for instance, really does come out of nowhere. There’s not much build-up before Alice and Hayden begin orbiting each other in a more-than-professional way. But once Alice and Hayden settled into that very specific dynamic—friends who can’t quite stand being just friends—I actually liked it. Their banter felt grounded. There was something real about the way their closeness built from irritation and quiet admiration rather than instant chemistry. Their connection grew on me, and I appreciated that it wasn’t built entirely on flirtation or spectacle. It felt quieter than some of Henry’s past couples, but still earned. Margaret’s storyline, though, was what pulled me in. I really appreciated that her story didn’t just start with her—she gave it context and generational depth. That broader view added emotional weight and perspective, and made her more than a reclusive public figure with a tragic backstory. She felt lived in. There’s something emotionally rich about characters who want to be known but are afraid of what it might cost them. That said, the ending left me...underwhelmed. After all that build-up, the resolution felt rushed and a little too tidy. I had trouble reconciling the final chapter with the more grounded tone that came before it. Alice and Hayden reconnect, suddenly appear to have chosen each other and a new life in a place neither of them previously expressed much interest in. It felt unearned, especially compared to the care taken with Margaret’s arc. Still, I read this quickly and mostly enjoyed the ride. It had some big themes about legacy, ambition, identity, and public versus private truths. If nothing else, this book reminded me that you don't have to be afraid to try something different, even if it doesn’t all come together perfectly.

I have read every Emily, Henry books and this was my favorite. Every summer, I look forward to reading her newest book. Each time I purchased one of her books, it was like buying the best pastry in a bakery shop and wanting to eat it as slow as possible to enjoy every single bite of it and hoping it can last forever. It brings me so much joy and fun. I’m always bummed when I’m done with the book because I don’t know how long I have to wait to read another one of her books. I just love them! I love the characters in this book and the twist and turns that were unexpected. There were even moments when I had tears in my eyes. That’s how real the story felt and how touching it was. Emily Henry, I look forward to your next book and please don’t ever stop writing! Warmly, Sonia, one of your greatest fans.

Great Big Beautiful Life was one of my most anticipated reads of the year—and it absolutely did not disappoint. Emily Henry wove such a masterful story here, and I know it’s going to stick with me for a long time. From the very first page, I was hooked: I loved the opening line and was completely in love with Alice by page three. There were so many sweet and "awww" moments throughout, balanced perfectly with moments that tugged at my heart. Watching Alice and Hayden fall for each other was such a joy—Hayden made for such a wonderful love interest and MMC. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the way their relationship unfolded felt so natural and satisfying. I loved the little "puzzle pieces" sprinkled throughout the story—it was really fun trying to piece everything together, and the plot twists kept me hooked. I could definitely feel some inspiration from Taylor Swift’s The Last Great American Dynasty woven into the narrative, which added such a unique flavor to the story. The ending was everything I could have hoped for—so sweet and heartwarming. I adored this book from start to finish! ✨ Tropes you’ll find: rivals to lovers, opposites attract, forced proximity, small town romance, and workplace romance. 🌶️ Spice rating: Very light—Chapter 30 has a bit of spice, but it’s not super descriptive. If you're a fan of Emily Henry or just love a heartfelt, slow-burn romance with great characters, this one is a must-read!

“When I let myself dream,” he murmurs against my ear, “or it all comes crashing down—it’s Alice, Alice on my mind. Alice all the time.” I have SO much to say about this book. At first, I was skeptical. It was slow paced for almost the entire first half, yet fast when it came to the romance. The idea of interviews being done made me feel a little less excited for my favorite authors new book release. Yet, I pushed through and I’m so glad I did. Great Big Beautiful Life is very different from Emily Henry’s normal books. It’s more literary fiction with romance being a subplot rather than the overarching theme. What kept me reading was knowing that Emily had mentioned how passionate she was about writing this book. I knew this story was important. Alice, Hayden, Margaret—they all had stories to tell and lessons to learn and moments to fulfill and every bit of that journey was beautiful, mysterious, confusing, joyful, sorrowful, and all the adjectives in between. The first few interviews between Margaret and Alice were intriguing, but once I reached the 45% mark, everything started opening up to these complex characters and unique family dynamics that had me constantly flipping pages, hungry for more. Hayden and Alice’s insta-love felt weird for me at first. Again, another thing Emily doesn’t really do. Yet, they grew on me. Every single character and every single page of this book just grew on me. For those of you who DNF this story, I beg of you to try again with an open mind. You’re missing out on such an incredibly touching story. Emily, you can do no wrong in my eyes. I’ll always and forever read anything you write, and will probably love it.

Now THIS is a love story. Thank you @emilyhenrywrites for the laughs, the mysteries, the passion, and the love. This book is EVERYTHING! I do not even need to write anything else. If you want a book that captures your heart, brings you to tears, and then smacks on smile onto your face… here it is! Alice Scott is an eternal optimist still dreaming of her big writing break. Hayden Anderson is a Pulitzer-prize winning human thundercloud. And they’re both on balmy Little Crescent Island for the same reason: to write the biography of a woman no one has seen in years—or at least to meet with the octogenarian who claims to be the Margaret Ives. Tragic heiress, former tabloid princess, and daughter of one of the most storied (and scandalous) families of the twentieth century. When Margaret invites them both for a one-month trial period, after which she’ll choose the person who’ll tell her story, there are three things keeping Alice’s head in the game. One: Alice genuinely likes people, which means people usually like Alice—and she has a whole month to win the legendary woman over. Two: She’s ready for this job and the chance to impress her perennially unimpressed family with a Serious Publication. Three: Hayden Anderson, who should have no reason to be concerned about losing this book, is glowering at her in a shaken-to-the core way that suggests he sees her as competition. But the problem is, Margaret is only giving each of them pieces of her story. Pieces they can’t swap to put together because of an ironclad NDA and an inconvenient yearning pulsing between them every time they’re in the same room. And it’s becoming abundantly clear that their story—just like the tale Margaret’s spinning—could be a mystery, tragedy, or love ballad . . . depending on who’s telling it.

Eine meine Lieblingsautorinnen, auch dieses Buch hat nicht enttäuscht - schöner Schreibstil, lustig, zu empfehlen

“𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗮 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻’𝘀 𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗹, 𝘂𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗹𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺 𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗻 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝘀𝗹𝗶𝗽 𝗲𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗹𝘆 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗮 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁’𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗽𝘀, 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺 𝗯𝗶𝘁 𝗯𝘆 𝗯𝗶𝘁.” From the moment I read this snippet from the book I knew I had to pre -order it and after what seemed to me like an eternally long wait (partly due to how early I pre-ordered it) I was beyond happy when my ebook copy arrived and then not long after my paperback copy also arrived as I need to have all of Emily Henry's books on my physical bookshelf as well as on my devices and in my heart. This book felt like a bit of a change up for me from her usual books in that the romance/relationship wasn't the main part of the storyline for me instead it was interwoven with the sprawling narrative about Margaret Ives' family and her love life. It was at times a heavier story than I am used to from Emily but it still had me feeling all of the emotions from love and excitement, to shock, and sadness. The romance side of the book is a beautiful love story between the protagonists, Hayden Anderson and Alice Scott, a story that made my heart flutter and feel all warm inside. These two stories are interwoven so well by Emily that I couldn't even tell you where each part starts and ends. I loved the premise of having Hayden and Alice, two journalists tasked with writing a book about the legendary Margaret Ives, a project that is also a critical job opportunity and the unfolding of her life story as they both spend time with her separately as they hear her story directly from her and vy for the position of being the writer of her memoir. Emily skillfully builds suspense, leading to two shocking revelations at the end, while simultaneously crafting a palpable chemistry between Hayden and Alice. I loved the dynamic between Hayden and Alice and watching their initial working relationship start to blossom into a friendship and I was here for it all. Their relationship was peppered with such poignant, vulnerable and sweet moments, I found myself hoping everything would work out for them exactly as I wanted it to. I very much enjoyed the interwoven stories of both Margarets life and Hayden and Alice's relationship and can only sum up by saying that this book was well and truly worth my very impatient wait to read. Another delightful read from Emily Henry that left me feeling very satisfied with the conclusion of both stories. #emilyhenry #berkleybooks #greatbigbeautifullife #goodreads #tea_sipping_bookworm #getlitsy #fable #thestorygraph #bookqueen #bookstagram #amazonkindle

Congratulations, Emily Henry! You’ve done it again! “‘I want to write about love,’ I say. Bianca nods. ‘So do that. Write about love.’” This book was a beautiful love story, and not just the story between Hayden and Alice, but the unexpected love stories. Between sisters, parents, relatives, and friends. The love flows out of every word, every sentence, and every action! I was genuinely blown away and grateful that I received this arc! Hayden and Alice are adorable. They find each other unexpectedly and are drawn together, experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime love. I swooned at every single moment. I expected nothing less from Ms. Henry. “‘It’s yours,’ he offers. I laugh. ‘Oh, I can have the world?’ ‘Mine,’ he says, ‘yeah. You can have mine.’” The intertwined story and mystery of Ms. Ives, the love between Laura and Margaret, really steals the show for me. When everything clicked, my jaw was on the floor! Overall, amazing book, amazing story, and amazing characters! I just bought the physical copy, after receiving an ARC from NetGallery. Thank you so much, and I’m obsessed! Also, the end! Wink to the title. I cheered.

Loved the plot! It felt different from Emily Henry's previous books yet it was perfect blend of literary fiction + romantic comedy. I didn't see the connection between Margaret & someone (cant say who!) Loved her history & passion that Alice had for her work

This book has more depth in the story and characters than her other novels. Although the formula is still the same, I enjoyed the pace and did not become irritated with the main character as I have in the past with EmilyHenry novels .