Explore the Book Junkie Library

Discover hundreds of book recommendations across all your favorite genres

View Full Library

Synopsis

Two writers compete for the chance to tell the larger-than-life story of a woman with more than a couple of plot twists up her sleeve in this dazzling and sweeping new novel from Emily Henry.

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 20th 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.

You Might Also Like...

×

Understanding Our Spice Level Ratings

Not sure what spice level is right for you? Use this guide to find books that match your comfort level with romantic content.

🌶️

Level 1 - Sweet & Mild

Tender moments and stolen kisses. Sweet and innocent romance. No sexual content whatsoever. Perfect for all ages.

🌶️🌶️

Level 2 - Warming Up

Chemistry is building with passionate kissing. Light physical affection and touches. Intimate moments are hinted at but not shown on page. Sensual but not explicit. Closed door or Fade to Black

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Level 3 - Getting Spicy

At least one intimate scene that readers experience on the page. Physical descriptions are present but tastefully written. Sensual and engaging without being overly graphic. Suitable for most adult readers.

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Level 4 - Fire Alarm

Two or more explicit intimate scenes with detailed descriptions. Frequent sexual content woven through the story. Varied and adventurous encounters. Not for the faint of heart.

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Level 5 - Whew! Hot Damn

Multiple explicit intimate scenes throughout the entire book. Detailed, graphic descriptions of sexual content. Varied and adventurous acts featured prominently. May include kink, BDSM, or other mature themes. Strictly for adult readers seeking maximum heat.