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Emily Henry, the bestselling author behind some of the most beloved contemporary romance novels in recent years, is back with a brand-new book that promises to capture readers’ hearts. Great Big Beautiful Life, set to hit bookshelves on April 22, 2025, is Henry’s next major release, and it already has readers buzzing with excitement. Known for her sharp wit, relatable characters, and emotional depth, Henry’s new book will follow two writers vying for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: to tell the story of an enigmatic woman with a life full of scandal, mystery, and secrets.
Emily Henry’s previous writings
Before we dive into the details of Great Big Beautiful Life, let’s take a moment to look at Emily Henry’s impressive body of work and her rise to literary stardom. Beach Read (2020), Henry’s breakthrough release in the contemporary romance genre, became an immediate hit.The novel, a heartfelt exploration of two writers—one a romantic cynic, the other an optimistic dreamer—set the stage for Henry’s reputation as a master of blending humor, romance, and poignant life lessons. Beach Read topped the bestseller lists and was hailed for its charm, relatable characters, and exploration of creative struggles.
Following the success of her debut, Henry released People We Meet on Vacation (2021), which solidified her place in the genre. The story of two best friends who grapple with unspoken feelings while on a vacation together struck a chord with fans for its relatable portrayal of friendship, love, and the complexity of relationships. Like her first book, People We Meet on Vacation was both heartwarming and thought-provoking, reinforcing Henry’s knack for crafting deeply human stories. Both novels received widespread acclaim and helped establish Henry as a go-to author for readers seeking emotionally rich, feel-good reads that also challenge the boundaries of traditional romance.
In addition to her commercial success, Emily Henry’s writing has earned her multiple accolades and a loyal fanbase. Her books have been translated into several languages, and she has appeared on numerous bestseller lists, making her one of the most popular contemporary romance authors today. Now, with Great Big Beautiful Life, Henry is poised to take her storytelling to new heights.
What to expect from Great Big Beautiful Life
So, what makes Great Big Beautiful Life so exciting? In this new novel, Henry introduces readers to two fascinating protagonists: Alice Scott and Hayden Anderson. Both writers are tasked with the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of writing a biography about the elusive Margaret Ives, a woman shrouded in mystery.Being the “tragic heiress, former tabloid princess, and daughter of one of the most storied (and scandalous) families of the 20th century,” Margaret Ives is no ordinary subject. This biography could be the opportunity of a lifetime for Alice and Hayden.
However, there’s a catch: Margaret is not easily impressed. She only agrees to let Alice and Hayden attempt to write her story on one condition—each writer must undergo a one-month trial period. At the end of the month, Margaret will choose who she believes is worthy of telling her tale.
Alice Scott is described as an eternal optimist, someone with big dreams of becoming a published writer. This opportunity is her chance to prove herself, not just to Margaret, but also to her perennially unimpressed family. However, she’s not the only one competing for the chance to tell Margaret’s story. Hayden Anderson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, is the exact opposite of Alice: a serious, brooding “human thundercloud” who seems to have little patience for anything or anyone. And yet, there’s an undeniable tension between him and Alice—a “yearning pulsing between them every time they’re in the same room.”
As Alice and Hayden grow closer in their competition, their shared ambition and unspoken attraction become a recipe for drama. The novel promises a tale of fierce rivalry, personal growth, and perhaps even love—if they can navigate the tangled web of secrets, desires, and professional pressures.
What’s especially intriguing about Great Big Beautiful Life is how it plays with the concept of storytelling itself. Much like the mystery surrounding Margaret’s life, the book explores the idea that every story—whether a biography or a romance—can be shaped by the narrator. Who gets to tell a story, and how it’s told, can change the entire narrative. The book will likely dive into themes of truth, perception, and the complexities of human relationships, all while keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Conclusion
Great Big Beautiful Life is shaping up to be Emily Henry’s most exciting release yet, blending romance, ambition, and mystery in a way only she can. Set for release in April 2025, this novel promises to be another hit for the bestselling author, offering fans a chance to fall in love with two new protagonists while uncovering the secrets of a legendary woman’s past. With Henry’s knack for combining heart and humor, Great Big Beautiful Life is definitely one to add to your reading list.