Overall Take:
Overall, I thought this book was a masterpiece of romance, suspense, and atmosphere.
Star Rating:
5 Stars
Genre:
Contemporary Romance
Synopsis
Alice Scott, an aspiring optimist, and Hayden Anderson, a Pulitzer-winning cynic, find themselves competing to write the biography of the mysterious Margaret Ives. Invited to a secluded island for a trial month, they must unravel Margaret’s enigmatic story through incomplete and secretive fragments—all while navigating professional rivalry, simmering attraction, and a tantalizing mix of mystery, tragedy, and romance.
Thoughts:
I absolutely loved this book! I felt like the premise was so unique and instantly hooked me. Alice’s optimism and determination to finally land her big writing break made her such a relatable and endearing protagonist. I admired her courage to compete against the formidable Hayden Anderson, whose brooding personality added a captivating dynamic to the story. I found myself completely invested in their interactions and the rivalry-turned-tension that simmered between them.
I loved the setting of Little Crescent Island—it felt magical and atmospheric, the perfect backdrop for uncovering Margaret Ives’s mysterious story. I felt like the author did an incredible job capturing the allure of this secluded location and the intrigue surrounding Margaret’s legendary life. I couldn’t wait to unravel the pieces of her past along with Alice and Hayden, and I felt like each twist added to the excitement.
I thought the chemistry between Alice and Hayden was amazing. I found myself rooting for them despite their rivalry, and I loved how their connection grew slowly and intensely. I felt the tension in every scene they shared, and their banter was both sharp and heartfelt. I couldn’t get enough of the way their professional competition blended with their growing feelings.
I also loved the layers of mystery surrounding Margaret and the way her fragmented story paralleled Alice and Hayden’s relationship. I felt like the pacing kept me intrigued from start to finish, and I was constantly surprised by the depth of emotion and intrigue woven into the narrative.
I felt completely immersed in the characters’ journey and found myself smiling, swooning, and gasping along the way. It’s a story I’ll be recommending to everyone!
Publication Date:
April 22, 2025
Author:
Emily Henry
Page Length:
420 pages
Thank you too:
Thank you to @prhaudio and @berkleyromance for this audio copy. All thoughts are my own.
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