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Start at the End
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Expected 7 Apr 26Win a free print copy of this book!
1 day and 14:13:56
50 copies available
U.S. only
From the bestselling author of The Last Love Note and Pictures of You comes an epic story of two soulmates who have to start over before they’ve really begun.
When Audrey and Fraser tumble into a love story for the ages, theirs is an epic, unbreakable romance—until one tragic moment upends everything. Facing the unimaginable, wrestling with guilt, they’re left haunted by “what ifs.”
Would their lives still have imploded if they'd done one little thing differently? Where would they be if events had unfolded the other way around?
This powerful, emotional, sliding-doors novel about love, loss, grief, and hope asks if our stories are already written. Are we able to change fate? And is it ever too late to start again?
When Audrey and Fraser tumble into a love story for the ages, theirs is an epic, unbreakable romance—until one tragic moment upends everything. Facing the unimaginable, wrestling with guilt, they’re left haunted by “what ifs.”
Would their lives still have imploded if they'd done one little thing differently? Where would they be if events had unfolded the other way around?
This powerful, emotional, sliding-doors novel about love, loss, grief, and hope asks if our stories are already written. Are we able to change fate? And is it ever too late to start again?
389 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 7, 2026
20 people are currently reading
12007 people want to read
About the author
Emma Grey
8 books1,548 followersEmma Grey is the author of the USA Today bestselling novels The Last Love Note and Pictures of You. Her forthcoming novel Start at the End will be published in the US, UK and Australia/New Zealand in April 2026. Grey lives in Canberra, Australia, where her world centers on her three children, loved stepchildren, and stepgrandchildren, as well as writing, photography, and endlessly chasing the aurora australis.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
March 23, 2026
4.5 stars
"This powerful sliding-doors novel asks the Are our futures already determined? Or are we able to change fate? A searingly emotional novel about love, loss, grief, and hope from the author of The Last Love Note and Pictures of You."
The latest contemporary fiction novel by Emma Grey gave me all the feels. I went into it pretty blind so I'm not giving much of a synopsis to not give anything away. Our main characters are Audrey and Fraser who you will love. The characters are richly drawn and we see their vulnerability woven into themes of love, loss, grief, hope, parenting, and ambition.
The sliding doors portion of the novel is so unique and thought-provoking. It reminds us that life is precious and not to be taken for granted. It can take us down many different paths and the most important thing is to move forward, make the most of our circumstances and stay close to those we love. I highly recommend this for those who love contemporary fiction that includes a romance with emotional depth. This story broke my heart and put it back together again. I will be thinking about it for a long time.
Many thanks to Zibby Publishing, NetGalley and Emma Grey for a gifted advance reader's copy and galley. All opinions are my own.
"This powerful sliding-doors novel asks the Are our futures already determined? Or are we able to change fate? A searingly emotional novel about love, loss, grief, and hope from the author of The Last Love Note and Pictures of You."
The latest contemporary fiction novel by Emma Grey gave me all the feels. I went into it pretty blind so I'm not giving much of a synopsis to not give anything away. Our main characters are Audrey and Fraser who you will love. The characters are richly drawn and we see their vulnerability woven into themes of love, loss, grief, hope, parenting, and ambition.
The sliding doors portion of the novel is so unique and thought-provoking. It reminds us that life is precious and not to be taken for granted. It can take us down many different paths and the most important thing is to move forward, make the most of our circumstances and stay close to those we love. I highly recommend this for those who love contemporary fiction that includes a romance with emotional depth. This story broke my heart and put it back together again. I will be thinking about it for a long time.
Many thanks to Zibby Publishing, NetGalley and Emma Grey for a gifted advance reader's copy and galley. All opinions are my own.
March 21, 2026
Emma has quickly become one of my favorite contemporary fiction writers. Some may classify her books as romances, but I’d say they lean heavily towards contemporary fiction with a side of romance. She’s such a storyteller.
I went into this book completely blind and I say that’s the way to do it! Told in four different sections, this story is quite the journey and leaves the readers to ponder the “what ifs” in life. It took such an unexpected turn almost halfway through and I just had to know how it would end!
With a unique storyline and beautiful writing, this one will be a strong contender for one of my top reads for the year! Thank you @zibbypublishing for the gifted early physical copy! 🩷
Content rating: R for approximately 10 f bombs
🔥: no spice
TW: big possible triggers but don’t want to give too much away.
I went into this book completely blind and I say that’s the way to do it! Told in four different sections, this story is quite the journey and leaves the readers to ponder the “what ifs” in life. It took such an unexpected turn almost halfway through and I just had to know how it would end!
With a unique storyline and beautiful writing, this one will be a strong contender for one of my top reads for the year! Thank you @zibbypublishing for the gifted early physical copy! 🩷
Content rating: R for approximately 10 f bombs
🔥: no spice
TW: big possible triggers but don’t want to give too much away.
March 20, 2026
The Last Love Note is one of my favorite books ever, so whenever Emma Grey releases something new, I run to read it.
Emma wears her heart on her sleeve and that vulnerability seeps into every page and character she crafts. She drops you straight into the messy, chaotic, painful, joyful, deeply intimate pieces of life. Every moment feels glaring and vibrant.
This story explores the idea of parallel universes and how a single choice, action or even tragedy can alter the entire trajectory of a life. It’s the kind of concept that feels impossibly vast and almost incomprehensible, yet Emma makes it feel human. Through Audrey and Fraser, she brings that enormity down to something tangible and deeply emotional. They don’t just exist within the boundaries of time and space, they push against them. In doing so, they remind us that nothing is too big, too broken or too far gone to fight for… especially when what you’re fighting for is your own happiness.
Then there’s Parker, Fraser’s daughter. I won’t say much because I don’t want to spoil anything but I will say that the author’s note and Parker’s character go hand in hand. The note is a declaration of a mother’s pride and love for her son. Parker feels like a living, breathing extension. She is extraordinary.
Start at the End is a reminder that life is precious. That things can unfold in a million different ways but nothing happens at all if we stay stuck. If we wait. If we let fear or grief root us in place.
Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is simply begin.
Emma wears her heart on her sleeve and that vulnerability seeps into every page and character she crafts. She drops you straight into the messy, chaotic, painful, joyful, deeply intimate pieces of life. Every moment feels glaring and vibrant.
This story explores the idea of parallel universes and how a single choice, action or even tragedy can alter the entire trajectory of a life. It’s the kind of concept that feels impossibly vast and almost incomprehensible, yet Emma makes it feel human. Through Audrey and Fraser, she brings that enormity down to something tangible and deeply emotional. They don’t just exist within the boundaries of time and space, they push against them. In doing so, they remind us that nothing is too big, too broken or too far gone to fight for… especially when what you’re fighting for is your own happiness.
Then there’s Parker, Fraser’s daughter. I won’t say much because I don’t want to spoil anything but I will say that the author’s note and Parker’s character go hand in hand. The note is a declaration of a mother’s pride and love for her son. Parker feels like a living, breathing extension. She is extraordinary.
Start at the End is a reminder that life is precious. That things can unfold in a million different ways but nothing happens at all if we stay stuck. If we wait. If we let fear or grief root us in place.
Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is simply begin.
January 26, 2026
I think if you’d explained the premise of Start at the End before I read it, I wouldn’t have found it compelling. I would’ve been so wrong though!
Emma writes about grief, addiction, failure, and love with such tender relatability.
I felt such fondness for the characters—their struggles so real and believable to me I was on the edge of my seat.
I really liked this one!
Emma writes about grief, addiction, failure, and love with such tender relatability.
I felt such fondness for the characters—their struggles so real and believable to me I was on the edge of my seat.
I really liked this one!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This sliding doors story involves a soon-to-be married couple who experiences a tragic accident, and the possible ways each of their lives could move forward afterwards.
This is a beautiful tale of loss, recovery, and ultimately moving forward. I went into this one pretty blind and was so heartbreakingly but pleasantly surprised at what I read. It was both tragic but so hopeful, and I would recommend it to anyone experiencing a loss. It highlights how even though time moves forward after the loss of a loved one, they are always there with you, and there can be more than one opportunity for happiness in this life. It also reiterates that everyone experiences loss differently, and everyone heals differently. The characters were beautiful, and I felt so deeply for all of them in both situations. The grief was palpable and I teared up multiple times. I do wish that I had learned a little bit more of Parker's story on both sides, but this is my only criticism. I would highly recommend this one, but perhaps have the tissues ready.
This is a beautiful tale of loss, recovery, and ultimately moving forward. I went into this one pretty blind and was so heartbreakingly but pleasantly surprised at what I read. It was both tragic but so hopeful, and I would recommend it to anyone experiencing a loss. It highlights how even though time moves forward after the loss of a loved one, they are always there with you, and there can be more than one opportunity for happiness in this life. It also reiterates that everyone experiences loss differently, and everyone heals differently. The characters were beautiful, and I felt so deeply for all of them in both situations. The grief was palpable and I teared up multiple times. I do wish that I had learned a little bit more of Parker's story on both sides, but this is my only criticism. I would highly recommend this one, but perhaps have the tissues ready.
March 16, 2026
Thank you Zibby Publishing for the gifted ARC!
Typically I start my reviews with a little synopsis, but if there was ever a book to go into with as little information as possible, it’s this one.
I am an absolute mess after finishing this brilliant new story from Emma Grey. I loved her other two novels, The Last Love Note and Pictures of You, but this one is my new favorite.
One of my favorite things about Grey’s stories is that they are so deep and rich with characteristics of several different genres. It’s contemporary fiction, romance, speculative fiction, and even a little bit of mystery. She does such a brilliant job with cohesion of these characteristics, that Start at the End feels like a true genre-blended journey.
The main characters, especially Audrey, had some of the most profound and well-written character arcs that I’ve read in a long time. The good, the bad, and the ugly were all displayed in the pages of the story, and Grey didn’t shy away from tougher moments for her characters.
This book breaks your heart and puts it back together again. It’s a journey through grief and healing, so dark and full of moments of despair, but equally as full of hope. I find it important to mention that the story meant even more to me after reading Grey’s author’s note at the end, so don’t miss that.
Typically I start my reviews with a little synopsis, but if there was ever a book to go into with as little information as possible, it’s this one.
I am an absolute mess after finishing this brilliant new story from Emma Grey. I loved her other two novels, The Last Love Note and Pictures of You, but this one is my new favorite.
One of my favorite things about Grey’s stories is that they are so deep and rich with characteristics of several different genres. It’s contemporary fiction, romance, speculative fiction, and even a little bit of mystery. She does such a brilliant job with cohesion of these characteristics, that Start at the End feels like a true genre-blended journey.
The main characters, especially Audrey, had some of the most profound and well-written character arcs that I’ve read in a long time. The good, the bad, and the ugly were all displayed in the pages of the story, and Grey didn’t shy away from tougher moments for her characters.
This book breaks your heart and puts it back together again. It’s a journey through grief and healing, so dark and full of moments of despair, but equally as full of hope. I find it important to mention that the story meant even more to me after reading Grey’s author’s note at the end, so don’t miss that.
February 23, 2026
Book #22 of 2026!
Four stars
Thank you to #NetGalley and Zibby Publishing for the advanced copy of this book.
What to expect in this book:
-Emotional romance
-Reverse timeline
-Sliding doors novel
-Set in Austrailia
-Stories of love and loss
-Grief, loss in all forms
-Blended families
Thoughts
From the author of The Last Love Note and Pictures of You comes another remarkable and heartbreaking story of love, family, loss, and self-discovery. Start at the End is a genre-bending story of second-chances in life, parallel timelines, and emotional slow burn. Audrey and Fraser's love story begins at the end. Their love is one for the ages, until tragedy strikes. Both wrestling with the unimaginable, they wonder if they had done something differently, how would their fates be the same? This is more than just a story of found or lost love, but of fate, destiny, and ultimately the power to start again.
Start at the End is Emma's most unique novel to date. I think it is wise to go into this book blind and let it take you on a ride. As the story began at the end, I expected it to go a certain direction, especially considering the title of the book itself, however I found this to be an enlightening and surprising story with depth and unexpected twists. I would in no way categorize this as a mystery, but there are some elements that go beyond traditional romance. As mentioned, this book deals with concepts of fate and I love when a story explores alternate realities. If you do not enjoy this, this may not be the right read for you.
While I did not cry, this is an emotional read and for anyone who has walked through any type of grief or loss before (death, loss of a dream or career, divorce, heartbreak, etc), there is something in this book for you to relate to. I love the relationship between Audrey and Fraser's daughter, as well as the beloved side characters. I had a hard time with some of the characters feeling a little two dimensional, mostly Josh. However, I loved how the elements of musical composition were woven throughout this story. Overall, this was a beautiful slow-burn romance with complicated underlying components made for the lover of emo romance. Look for this one on shelves in April.
Four stars
Thank you to #NetGalley and Zibby Publishing for the advanced copy of this book.
What to expect in this book:
-Emotional romance
-Reverse timeline
-Sliding doors novel
-Set in Austrailia
-Stories of love and loss
-Grief, loss in all forms
-Blended families
Thoughts
From the author of The Last Love Note and Pictures of You comes another remarkable and heartbreaking story of love, family, loss, and self-discovery. Start at the End is a genre-bending story of second-chances in life, parallel timelines, and emotional slow burn. Audrey and Fraser's love story begins at the end. Their love is one for the ages, until tragedy strikes. Both wrestling with the unimaginable, they wonder if they had done something differently, how would their fates be the same? This is more than just a story of found or lost love, but of fate, destiny, and ultimately the power to start again.
Start at the End is Emma's most unique novel to date. I think it is wise to go into this book blind and let it take you on a ride. As the story began at the end, I expected it to go a certain direction, especially considering the title of the book itself, however I found this to be an enlightening and surprising story with depth and unexpected twists. I would in no way categorize this as a mystery, but there are some elements that go beyond traditional romance. As mentioned, this book deals with concepts of fate and I love when a story explores alternate realities. If you do not enjoy this, this may not be the right read for you.
While I did not cry, this is an emotional read and for anyone who has walked through any type of grief or loss before (death, loss of a dream or career, divorce, heartbreak, etc), there is something in this book for you to relate to. I love the relationship between Audrey and Fraser's daughter, as well as the beloved side characters. I had a hard time with some of the characters feeling a little two dimensional, mostly Josh. However, I loved how the elements of musical composition were woven throughout this story. Overall, this was a beautiful slow-burn romance with complicated underlying components made for the lover of emo romance. Look for this one on shelves in April.
March 21, 2026
Start at the End completely swept me up in its emotional what-ifs and second chances. Audrey and Fraser’s love story felt achingly real, and I found myself rooting for each of them even as everything around them changed. The sliding doors element added an interesting layer, making me really consider fate, timing, and how one moment in time can change everything. It was definitely an emotional read, but the heaviness always felt like it had a purpose. The writing was heartfelt and immersive. This story was a It was a moving reminder that hope can still exist, even after everything falls apart.
March 6, 2026
This is a difficult review to write because the less you know about this book before you start reading, the better. This is a story about dating, love, loss, friendship, mental health, alcoholism, divorce, co-parenting and so much more.
If you start and are a little confused, keep going! It all becomes clear the more you read. I don’t know if all of Emma Grey’s books are like this but I will be reading them all now.
Thank you Netgalley and Zibby Publishing for the digital ARC.
If you start and are a little confused, keep going! It all becomes clear the more you read. I don’t know if all of Emma Grey’s books are like this but I will be reading them all now.
Thank you Netgalley and Zibby Publishing for the digital ARC.
March 10, 2026
Thank you Allen & Unwin, NetGalley and Emma Grey for this wonderful ARC.
Audrey and Fraser have a love story for the ages and days before their wedding, tragedy strikes. What follows is a sliding door exploration of their grief, their “what ifs“ and how they rebuild their lives after having lost their soul mate.
This whole book was an intense emotional rollercoaster. The immense lows and ugly ways we cope with how life may have cheated us. But also the incredible ways in which the human spirit can endure despite the most horrific circumstances and the way our hearts continue to beat even when they’ve been torn to shreds. Emma Grey’s prose was beautiful and it felt like she was an artist with her words. I really enjoyed her writing style. This was my first book of hers and won’t be my last.
This book is all about emotions and I loved this because I love dissecting human sentiments and it never ceases to amaze me when people rise from the ashes despite the odds and Audrey in particular, was a true hero. She was fascinating to me. I can’t go in to detail with out spoiling plot points because you would lose shock value but needless to say, I would be surprised if you didn’t fall in love with Audrey too and want to be her friend and protect her from harm the same way I came to care for her.
Please check trigger warnings prior to reading as this book deals with a lot of heavy topics.
Audrey and Fraser have a love story for the ages and days before their wedding, tragedy strikes. What follows is a sliding door exploration of their grief, their “what ifs“ and how they rebuild their lives after having lost their soul mate.
This whole book was an intense emotional rollercoaster. The immense lows and ugly ways we cope with how life may have cheated us. But also the incredible ways in which the human spirit can endure despite the most horrific circumstances and the way our hearts continue to beat even when they’ve been torn to shreds. Emma Grey’s prose was beautiful and it felt like she was an artist with her words. I really enjoyed her writing style. This was my first book of hers and won’t be my last.
This book is all about emotions and I loved this because I love dissecting human sentiments and it never ceases to amaze me when people rise from the ashes despite the odds and Audrey in particular, was a true hero. She was fascinating to me. I can’t go in to detail with out spoiling plot points because you would lose shock value but needless to say, I would be surprised if you didn’t fall in love with Audrey too and want to be her friend and protect her from harm the same way I came to care for her.
Please check trigger warnings prior to reading as this book deals with a lot of heavy topics.
Read
March 18, 2026review to come
March 12, 2026
I’m going to start this review with saying that I have read both The Last Love Note and Pictures of You by Emma Grey and really liked them both. Grey writes emotionally gripping love stories in such a readable way. I also will say that I strongly believe that many readers are going to love this one. It’s emotional, original, and romantic. All that being said, this one didn’t fully work for me personally. So, let’s break it down.
The novel is told in two parts. The first half is the love story of Fraser and Audrey, their families, and their complicated pasts. I felt like I was just settling into their love story, and then boom – the “big event” occurs. It was extremely disorienting figuring out what happened and while the story structure felt original, I think the actual event itself (no spoilies) needed a touch of editing for clarity purposes. It all became clear eventually, but I just wasn’t crazy about the second act. The dual POV was jolting to me and kept taking me out of the story I was previously in. The storyline at the end with Fraser’s daughter Parker at the big concert (again being intentionally vague to avoid any spoilers) was so incredibly unrealistic, I couldn’t help but cringe. I wanted to fall in love with the climax moment, but I couldn’t help feeling like it fell flat for me because of how cheesy it was.
I’m settling on a 3-star rating because Emma Grey’s writing is so strong. I enjoyed the characters and their flaws, the musical aspects, and the cleverness of the plot. The overall concept was so spot on – how one event could change the entire trajectory of a life and imagining another version of the same reality if a different choice was made. I KNOW many readers are going to eat this one up. It just was slightly off the mark for me.
Thank you so much to Zibby Publishing and NetGalley for access to this ALC.
The novel is told in two parts. The first half is the love story of Fraser and Audrey, their families, and their complicated pasts. I felt like I was just settling into their love story, and then boom – the “big event” occurs. It was extremely disorienting figuring out what happened and while the story structure felt original, I think the actual event itself (no spoilies) needed a touch of editing for clarity purposes. It all became clear eventually, but I just wasn’t crazy about the second act. The dual POV was jolting to me and kept taking me out of the story I was previously in. The storyline at the end with Fraser’s daughter Parker at the big concert (again being intentionally vague to avoid any spoilers) was so incredibly unrealistic, I couldn’t help but cringe. I wanted to fall in love with the climax moment, but I couldn’t help feeling like it fell flat for me because of how cheesy it was.
I’m settling on a 3-star rating because Emma Grey’s writing is so strong. I enjoyed the characters and their flaws, the musical aspects, and the cleverness of the plot. The overall concept was so spot on – how one event could change the entire trajectory of a life and imagining another version of the same reality if a different choice was made. I KNOW many readers are going to eat this one up. It just was slightly off the mark for me.
Thank you so much to Zibby Publishing and NetGalley for access to this ALC.
November 25, 2025
Thank you, @zibbypublishing for the #gifted eARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Well guys, I don’t know quite how to write a review for this book without spoiling things. I went in 100% blind and boy am I glad I did! I didn’t even read the synopsis, because I trust Emma with my life and was going to read it no matter what. I suggest you do the same (go in blind, AND trust Emma fully).
There are so many reasons I love Emma and her books. One being, her books are all so different. She refuses to be pigeon-holed by a genre and really writes whatever it is she is inspired to write. There is a mystery/speculative aspect to this one that quite literally shocked me, but I was so all in on. This book will make you think. Will probably make you cry. And make you run through a whole range of emotions. I imagine it will be therapeutic for some as well. It is heartbreaking, yet hopeful at the same time.
I also want to note that Emma is quite simply a poet. Her writing is always so lyrical and lovely and I would frankly read the woman’s grocery lists. She has been open about having synesthesia (she sees words as colors) and how that affects her writing process, and by golly I think I think it only enhances her work. Additionally, I appreciate how transparent she’s been on her socials throughout the writing of this book - I feel like we, as readers, have been given such a special gift to be able to peek behind the scenes into her writing process (and publishing)!
Ok, as I finish this, I realize this is more or less a rave review and recommendation of Emma and her books rather than an actual review of Start at the End, but omg I don’t want to spoil anything! So, just trust me on this.
Well guys, I don’t know quite how to write a review for this book without spoiling things. I went in 100% blind and boy am I glad I did! I didn’t even read the synopsis, because I trust Emma with my life and was going to read it no matter what. I suggest you do the same (go in blind, AND trust Emma fully).
There are so many reasons I love Emma and her books. One being, her books are all so different. She refuses to be pigeon-holed by a genre and really writes whatever it is she is inspired to write. There is a mystery/speculative aspect to this one that quite literally shocked me, but I was so all in on. This book will make you think. Will probably make you cry. And make you run through a whole range of emotions. I imagine it will be therapeutic for some as well. It is heartbreaking, yet hopeful at the same time.
I also want to note that Emma is quite simply a poet. Her writing is always so lyrical and lovely and I would frankly read the woman’s grocery lists. She has been open about having synesthesia (she sees words as colors) and how that affects her writing process, and by golly I think I think it only enhances her work. Additionally, I appreciate how transparent she’s been on her socials throughout the writing of this book - I feel like we, as readers, have been given such a special gift to be able to peek behind the scenes into her writing process (and publishing)!
Ok, as I finish this, I realize this is more or less a rave review and recommendation of Emma and her books rather than an actual review of Start at the End, but omg I don’t want to spoil anything! So, just trust me on this.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you crave emotional damage like I do and are okay with having your heart ripped out early on in a book, then this one is for you. Emma Grey is a master at stripping us down to our most emotional state, making us reflect on life’s biggest questions, and then sloooowwwwwlllly building us back up again. As a character says in this book, “No notes, Hepburn. Not a single one,” and so I say to you, Emma, “No notes, Grey. Not a single one.” This beautiful masterpiece is uniquely crafted with multiple POVs that constantly have your mind questioning the definition of reality, while the musical backdrop is so vivid it feels like you can hear every note of Audrey’s music. If I had to name the real MVP of this story, it would be Parker, the daughter, and what a privilege it was to watch her come into her own as the badass female character we can all learn from, proving that age truly is just a number. Please pick this one up when it comes out. It is not a traditional romance, but it will absolutely leave you speechless.
📚 𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚒𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎:
💕Second chances
🔀Sliding doors / parallel timelines
❓What if choices
💙Love and loss
❤️🩹Grief and healing
🔥Emotional slow burn
❤️Bittersweet romance
📈Character driven
🎼Classical Music backdrop
🗣️Dual POV
⚠️ 𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨: Grief, Love and Loss, Alcoholism, Depression.
🎼𝕄𝕐 ℝ𝔸𝕋𝕀ℕ𝔾🎼
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💕Q U O T E: “𝑀𝒾𝒸𝓇𝑜 𝒿𝑜𝓎𝓈 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝒶𝓎 𝓌𝑒 𝓈𝓊𝓇𝓋𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝓂𝒶𝒸𝓇𝑜 𝑔𝓇𝒾𝑒𝒻.”
🙏Thank you Zibby Publishing and Emma Grey for this free ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.💕
📚 𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚒𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎:
💕Second chances
🔀Sliding doors / parallel timelines
❓What if choices
💙Love and loss
❤️🩹Grief and healing
🔥Emotional slow burn
❤️Bittersweet romance
📈Character driven
🎼Classical Music backdrop
🗣️Dual POV
⚠️ 𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨: Grief, Love and Loss, Alcoholism, Depression.
🎼𝕄𝕐 ℝ𝔸𝕋𝕀ℕ𝔾🎼
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💕Q U O T E: “𝑀𝒾𝒸𝓇𝑜 𝒿𝑜𝓎𝓈 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝒶𝓎 𝓌𝑒 𝓈𝓊𝓇𝓋𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝓂𝒶𝒸𝓇𝑜 𝑔𝓇𝒾𝑒𝒻.”
🙏Thank you Zibby Publishing and Emma Grey for this free ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.💕
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As I have come to expect from Emma Grey, this new book delivers a book consumed by grief, hope and love. Realising how personal grief is, this book allows readers to bring their own feelings and perspectives to this story as Emma explores a sliding doors scenario after a particular moment in time.
Audrey and Fraser have fallen into a head-over-heels romance, the kind of love that has them wanting every life experience with each other, despite not necessarily even wanting them before. But days before their wedding, something tragic happens and a sliding doors scenario evolves to explore the pathways they each would have had to maneuver had this evolved.
There is a huge moment that happens which changes the trajectory of the whole book and it left me feeling very confused. I wanted to explore their relationship and love more because there was also Fraser's daughter, his ex-wife and Audrey's professional relationship with Fraser's brother to dive in to. I didn't like some of the decisions made in the 'alternate lives' which made me disconnect from the characters at times.
Emma's writing is beautiful, the way she orchestrates scenes to really pull at your heartstrings is exquisite. This is my 3rd book of hers and the themes are thoughtful, sensitive and emotional. While this one wasn't my favourite, it is still worth a read.
Expected publication is 31st March, 2026.
Thank you Allen and Unwin for providing me with this ARC through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Audrey and Fraser have fallen into a head-over-heels romance, the kind of love that has them wanting every life experience with each other, despite not necessarily even wanting them before. But days before their wedding, something tragic happens and a sliding doors scenario evolves to explore the pathways they each would have had to maneuver had this evolved.
There is a huge moment that happens which changes the trajectory of the whole book and it left me feeling very confused. I wanted to explore their relationship and love more because there was also Fraser's daughter, his ex-wife and Audrey's professional relationship with Fraser's brother to dive in to. I didn't like some of the decisions made in the 'alternate lives' which made me disconnect from the characters at times.
Emma's writing is beautiful, the way she orchestrates scenes to really pull at your heartstrings is exquisite. This is my 3rd book of hers and the themes are thoughtful, sensitive and emotional. While this one wasn't my favourite, it is still worth a read.
Expected publication is 31st March, 2026.
Thank you Allen and Unwin for providing me with this ARC through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book does start at the end, but tells the whole story including the beginning and the middle with very interesting side trips.
First, the author has given the protagonist, Audrey, an unconventional occupation. She is a classical music composer. This fact is a fun detail and adds to the story. Audrey's stepdaughter, a preteen, is also a gifted pianist who idolizes her stepmother.
There is a significant amount of storytelling in this book about human nature and its complications. The characters are flawed but very lovable.
While processing her grief from loss of a loved one, Audrey determines that she is an alcoholic. That fact is not a major plot line, but a valid, interesting side issue that adds to the richness of this book. The condition is neither demonized nor glamourized. The same is true for a character who has a fear of heights.
The process of grief for the characters in this book is described very well. The sudden mood changes, the sudden tears, and even the sudden laughter are all well-known to those who have lost a loved one. For them, this book will be a surprising source of closure.
This book has used a continually changing point of view which asks the question "What if?" The author is acting as a stage manager, helping the characters cope with their circumstances.
This book is a delight to read.
First, the author has given the protagonist, Audrey, an unconventional occupation. She is a classical music composer. This fact is a fun detail and adds to the story. Audrey's stepdaughter, a preteen, is also a gifted pianist who idolizes her stepmother.
There is a significant amount of storytelling in this book about human nature and its complications. The characters are flawed but very lovable.
While processing her grief from loss of a loved one, Audrey determines that she is an alcoholic. That fact is not a major plot line, but a valid, interesting side issue that adds to the richness of this book. The condition is neither demonized nor glamourized. The same is true for a character who has a fear of heights.
The process of grief for the characters in this book is described very well. The sudden mood changes, the sudden tears, and even the sudden laughter are all well-known to those who have lost a loved one. For them, this book will be a surprising source of closure.
This book has used a continually changing point of view which asks the question "What if?" The author is acting as a stage manager, helping the characters cope with their circumstances.
This book is a delight to read.
January 8, 2026
5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vibe check: Heart Tugging, Sliding Doors
full review ⬇️
Starting a new reading year with a 5 star book is magical and Emma Grey has officially done it to me twice. I kicked off 2025 with The Last Love Note and was absolutely delighted to begin 2026 the same way with a sneak peek of Start At The End.
If Emma Grey is new to you, consider this your gentle warning to keep tissues close by. Her stories hold space for warmth, hope and joy, but they also dig deep into grief, love and the kind of emotion that quietly breaks your heart before stitching it back together again.
At its heart, Start At The End is a love story but one with layers. It explores how a single moment or choice can ripple through an entire life, opening the door to second chances and alternate paths.
Without giving away spoilers there is a twist in the middle which transforms the narrative into multiple timelines with dual perspectives. I’ll admit I felt briefly confused after the accident, but once everything clicked I was fully invested in the what ifs (with just one small relationship exception).
The sliding doors concept is handled beautifully and as always Emma blends love and loss with sensitivity, depth and emotional punch. This is the kind of book that lingers long after the final page, reminding you how fragile, complicated and hopeful life can be all at once.
Another stunning 5 star read from Emma hitting shelves in April. Huge thanks to Atlantic Books and Allen and Unwin for the sneak peek.
Vibe check: Heart Tugging, Sliding Doors
full review ⬇️
Starting a new reading year with a 5 star book is magical and Emma Grey has officially done it to me twice. I kicked off 2025 with The Last Love Note and was absolutely delighted to begin 2026 the same way with a sneak peek of Start At The End.
If Emma Grey is new to you, consider this your gentle warning to keep tissues close by. Her stories hold space for warmth, hope and joy, but they also dig deep into grief, love and the kind of emotion that quietly breaks your heart before stitching it back together again.
At its heart, Start At The End is a love story but one with layers. It explores how a single moment or choice can ripple through an entire life, opening the door to second chances and alternate paths.
Without giving away spoilers there is a twist in the middle which transforms the narrative into multiple timelines with dual perspectives. I’ll admit I felt briefly confused after the accident, but once everything clicked I was fully invested in the what ifs (with just one small relationship exception).
The sliding doors concept is handled beautifully and as always Emma blends love and loss with sensitivity, depth and emotional punch. This is the kind of book that lingers long after the final page, reminding you how fragile, complicated and hopeful life can be all at once.
Another stunning 5 star read from Emma hitting shelves in April. Huge thanks to Atlantic Books and Allen and Unwin for the sneak peek.
February 28, 2026
Imagine your perfect love story… and then everything changes in an instant. That’s exactly where Start at the End hits you.
This story begins as a love story — tender, hopeful, full of possibility. And then an unimaginable tragedy hits… and everything shifts.
It’s a story of love, loss, recovery, and moving forward — tragic and hopeful all at once. Told through parallel timelines in a sliding-doors style narrative, we see how one defining moment can change the paths of our lives. It’s a reminder of how fragile life can be… and of the power of soulmates, timing, and second chances.
The characters are beautifully written and deeply human. I had tears in my eyes more than once — you feel for them all, and the emotions really land.
I’ve read Emma Grey’s other two books and loved them, and this one continues her gift for writing heartfelt stories about love, grief, and resilience.
A strong 4 stars from me
If you’ve loved Emma Grey’s previous books like I have, I think you’ll really connect with this one too. It has that same warmth and emotional honesty she does so well. It’s out in April so make sure this one is on your list!
Thank you to NetGalley and Allen and Unwin for the advanced reading copy.
This story begins as a love story — tender, hopeful, full of possibility. And then an unimaginable tragedy hits… and everything shifts.
It’s a story of love, loss, recovery, and moving forward — tragic and hopeful all at once. Told through parallel timelines in a sliding-doors style narrative, we see how one defining moment can change the paths of our lives. It’s a reminder of how fragile life can be… and of the power of soulmates, timing, and second chances.
The characters are beautifully written and deeply human. I had tears in my eyes more than once — you feel for them all, and the emotions really land.
I’ve read Emma Grey’s other two books and loved them, and this one continues her gift for writing heartfelt stories about love, grief, and resilience.
A strong 4 stars from me
If you’ve loved Emma Grey’s previous books like I have, I think you’ll really connect with this one too. It has that same warmth and emotional honesty she does so well. It’s out in April so make sure this one is on your list!
Thank you to NetGalley and Allen and Unwin for the advanced reading copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I don’t think anyone writes grief quite like Emma.
It’s (fortunately) not something I've had much personal experience with, and yet Emma has this incredible ability to make my heart genuinely ache for the losses her characters experience. Knowing that this insight is shaped by her own experiences of loss makes what she creates for us readers even more special.
Another thing Emma does beautifully is romance. Not instalove, but real love. This story explores multiple relationships and I found myself invested in each of them. So much so that I wished we had more time with some of them. There was one relationship I wasn’t entirely on board with, but I was still eager to see how it unfolded.
The main plot complication took me a little while to wrap my head around, and I was slightly confused. After reading the acknowledgements I understand much better why the story went in that direction, though I still felt a bit robbed of the first romance 😅
As a Canberran, I got a real kick out of how close to home the setting was. I doubt I’ll be reading any other books where Googong and the coffee truck near the library get a mention!
Thanks to Allen & Unwin, NetGalley and Emma Grey for the early review copy ✨
It’s (fortunately) not something I've had much personal experience with, and yet Emma has this incredible ability to make my heart genuinely ache for the losses her characters experience. Knowing that this insight is shaped by her own experiences of loss makes what she creates for us readers even more special.
Another thing Emma does beautifully is romance. Not instalove, but real love. This story explores multiple relationships and I found myself invested in each of them. So much so that I wished we had more time with some of them. There was one relationship I wasn’t entirely on board with, but I was still eager to see how it unfolded.
The main plot complication took me a little while to wrap my head around, and I was slightly confused. After reading the acknowledgements I understand much better why the story went in that direction, though I still felt a bit robbed of the first romance 😅
As a Canberran, I got a real kick out of how close to home the setting was. I doubt I’ll be reading any other books where Googong and the coffee truck near the library get a mention!
Thanks to Allen & Unwin, NetGalley and Emma Grey for the early review copy ✨
March 5, 2026
I don’t know where to start! This book was a heavy for me. It has trigger warnings!
This book follows the story Audrey and Fraser and their love story but with a twist.
The characters are so beautiful and lovable that you want to hug each one of the them. There is a twist and the author hints at it quite early on in the story but you still get a shock when you reach the point.
The author has touched on grief quite beautifully and I felt the things the author was trying to describe about. I loved the romantic aspect of it and Fraser Miller is all green flags and so perfect! I also loved how music is one of the central themes of the book. The author has done a great job in bringing music to help with grief.
That said, I couldn’t rate it higher than 3.5 stars. While the story is amazing, the book was a bit too long and it kept dragging on! The author wanted to bring justice to the said plot of the story but it came in way too late.
I wanted to stop reading and give up at certain point but I kept going on thinking maybe there is something at the end but I was disappointed there.
Overall 3.5/5 stars
This book follows the story Audrey and Fraser and their love story but with a twist.
The characters are so beautiful and lovable that you want to hug each one of the them. There is a twist and the author hints at it quite early on in the story but you still get a shock when you reach the point.
The author has touched on grief quite beautifully and I felt the things the author was trying to describe about. I loved the romantic aspect of it and Fraser Miller is all green flags and so perfect! I also loved how music is one of the central themes of the book. The author has done a great job in bringing music to help with grief.
That said, I couldn’t rate it higher than 3.5 stars. While the story is amazing, the book was a bit too long and it kept dragging on! The author wanted to bring justice to the said plot of the story but it came in way too late.
I wanted to stop reading and give up at certain point but I kept going on thinking maybe there is something at the end but I was disappointed there.
Overall 3.5/5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a sweet love story in two parts. The first half of the book tells the love story of Fraser and Audrey, their families, and their complicated pasts. And while I did like their story, at first I had a hard time getting into the book. I struggled a bit with the writing, and the lay out of the e book sometimes threw me off. There were typos throughout. For example, everything there was a double f, like in the word coffee, the fs were missing from the words. It was easy to use context clues to figure out the words, but it still frustrated me. Sometimes the dialogue ran together as well, and I had to reread because I lost track of who was talking.
I would round the book up to 3.5 stars because I thought the second half of the book was a lot better than the first, and I got used to the author’s writing style. The second half was about healing and learning to live again. I did like both Audrey and Fraser as characters. I enjoyed the music and the creative passions of Parker. (I wish I could hear their soundtrack!) I also really liked the concept of the book, about how one little thing could completely change the course of our lives. And I think we’ve all wondered at some point what another version of our reality might look like if we had made a different decision or gone down a different path.
I have another of this author’s book and I think she writes love well, so I will definitely give it a try! Have your tissues handy because there are many plot points that will pull on your heart strings.
Thank you to @netgalley and @zibbypublishing for sending me an advanced copy of this book.
I would round the book up to 3.5 stars because I thought the second half of the book was a lot better than the first, and I got used to the author’s writing style. The second half was about healing and learning to live again. I did like both Audrey and Fraser as characters. I enjoyed the music and the creative passions of Parker. (I wish I could hear their soundtrack!) I also really liked the concept of the book, about how one little thing could completely change the course of our lives. And I think we’ve all wondered at some point what another version of our reality might look like if we had made a different decision or gone down a different path.
I have another of this author’s book and I think she writes love well, so I will definitely give it a try! Have your tissues handy because there are many plot points that will pull on your heart strings.
Thank you to @netgalley and @zibbypublishing for sending me an advanced copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wow, this was an absolutely PHENOMENAL read, I can't give it enough stars. This is an instant favorite read for me, I can't get over it. I'm WRECKED.
While I often do a little synopsis in my reviews, I knew nothing about Start at the End before picking it up and I think that's the way to go. When I hit the 30% mark and a twist was revealed, I GASPED. As a prolific reader it's really hard to surprise and impress me, and this book did both.
If you're familiar with Emma Grey's other books, particularly The Last Love Note and Pictures of You, you'll know that she is just so so good at writing complex characters. They feel like real people with full emotional lives, who go through some of the darkest possible times and come out stronger and more resilient. In Start at the End, the characters of Audrey and Fraser are just next level. I was so invested in Audrey's early career story, and the way she navigates through the pain of lost potential was really moving to me.
I feel so lucky to have experienced this story. Thanks so much to Net Galley and Zibby Publishing for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
While I often do a little synopsis in my reviews, I knew nothing about Start at the End before picking it up and I think that's the way to go. When I hit the 30% mark and a twist was revealed, I GASPED. As a prolific reader it's really hard to surprise and impress me, and this book did both.
If you're familiar with Emma Grey's other books, particularly The Last Love Note and Pictures of You, you'll know that she is just so so good at writing complex characters. They feel like real people with full emotional lives, who go through some of the darkest possible times and come out stronger and more resilient. In Start at the End, the characters of Audrey and Fraser are just next level. I was so invested in Audrey's early career story, and the way she navigates through the pain of lost potential was really moving to me.
I feel so lucky to have experienced this story. Thanks so much to Net Galley and Zibby Publishing for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Book Report: Start at the End by Emma Grey
Audrey and Fraser’s love story begins unexpectedly…then quickly grows into something deep and undeniable. Until one devastating moment changes everything. What follows is a tender…emotional unraveling of grief…guilt and all the “what ifs” that linger when life doesn’t go the way we planned.
I’m honestly still in awe of this story. It feels so fresh and unique…and so deeply human. If we were talking about it in person…I’d probably be tearing up trying to explain just how much it moved me 🥹
Emma Grey weaves together…
❤️Love
💔Loss
🎶music
🧡and the quiet power of support in a way that completely consumed me.
I’m an Emma Grey completist and somehow she’s done it again. Start at the End is a new favorite and absolutely making my favorites of the year list 📚🤍 If I were starting a book club…this would be my first pick because there is so much to unpack and talk about. Thank you Emma…for sharing your heart with us readers 💫
Thank you @zibbypublishing for this fun promo box!
Releases 4/7
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
Audrey and Fraser’s love story begins unexpectedly…then quickly grows into something deep and undeniable. Until one devastating moment changes everything. What follows is a tender…emotional unraveling of grief…guilt and all the “what ifs” that linger when life doesn’t go the way we planned.
I’m honestly still in awe of this story. It feels so fresh and unique…and so deeply human. If we were talking about it in person…I’d probably be tearing up trying to explain just how much it moved me 🥹
Emma Grey weaves together…
❤️Love
💔Loss
🎶music
🧡and the quiet power of support in a way that completely consumed me.
I’m an Emma Grey completist and somehow she’s done it again. Start at the End is a new favorite and absolutely making my favorites of the year list 📚🤍 If I were starting a book club…this would be my first pick because there is so much to unpack and talk about. Thank you Emma…for sharing your heart with us readers 💫
Thank you @zibbypublishing for this fun promo box!
Releases 4/7
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Think Abby Jiminez romance crossed with Sliding Doors!
Surprisingly this was the first of Emma Grey’s books I have read. I have heard such good things about her other two books (and they are sitting on my kindle waiting to be picked next!)
This story starts off as a love story, but after an unimaginable tragedy it shifts into a sliding doors-type narrative told from two points of view. I’ll admit I was briefly confused when the split storyline emerged, but the confusion didn’t last long.
A lot of this story revolves around grief, so check trigger warnings before diving in. When reading the acknowledgements at the end, Emma shares that she wrote this story to attempt to process some of the questions and “what ifs” she had after her husband passed away 10 years ago - and you can really understand the depths of her grief through this story.
I really enjoy Emma’s writing style and am looking forward to reading her other books!
Thanks so much to Allen & Unwin, Emma Grey and Netgalley for this ARC.
Surprisingly this was the first of Emma Grey’s books I have read. I have heard such good things about her other two books (and they are sitting on my kindle waiting to be picked next!)
This story starts off as a love story, but after an unimaginable tragedy it shifts into a sliding doors-type narrative told from two points of view. I’ll admit I was briefly confused when the split storyline emerged, but the confusion didn’t last long.
A lot of this story revolves around grief, so check trigger warnings before diving in. When reading the acknowledgements at the end, Emma shares that she wrote this story to attempt to process some of the questions and “what ifs” she had after her husband passed away 10 years ago - and you can really understand the depths of her grief through this story.
I really enjoy Emma’s writing style and am looking forward to reading her other books!
Thanks so much to Allen & Unwin, Emma Grey and Netgalley for this ARC.
February 25, 2026
Wow. Emma Grey’s books have a way of smashing your heart into 50,000 pieces and then somehow putting it back together again.
I don’t want to give too much away, but if there is one book you must read this year, make it Start at the End.
We’re introduced to Audrey and Fraser, who madly fall in love. Have you ever thought about how one action — one single choice — can change the entire course of your life? This book explores that idea so beautifully. It even reminded me of Sliding Doors — that whole “what if?” moment of how life can pivot on something so small.
You will fall deeply in love with Audrey and Fraser. They made me feel things I didn’t even know I could feel. This book wrecked me in the best possible way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trigger warnings: This book features mental health themes, alcoholism, teenage mental health struggles, and loss — and shows how deeply these impact everyone involved.
A huge thank you to NetGalley for approving me for an ARC. I’m so grateful I had the chance to read this one.
I don’t want to give too much away, but if there is one book you must read this year, make it Start at the End.
We’re introduced to Audrey and Fraser, who madly fall in love. Have you ever thought about how one action — one single choice — can change the entire course of your life? This book explores that idea so beautifully. It even reminded me of Sliding Doors — that whole “what if?” moment of how life can pivot on something so small.
You will fall deeply in love with Audrey and Fraser. They made me feel things I didn’t even know I could feel. This book wrecked me in the best possible way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trigger warnings: This book features mental health themes, alcoholism, teenage mental health struggles, and loss — and shows how deeply these impact everyone involved.
A huge thank you to NetGalley for approving me for an ARC. I’m so grateful I had the chance to read this one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Audrey could never have predicted that making a mistake on a bill at work would have led to her meeting the love of her life. She was still traumatised from losing the future in music she had always wanted, while Fraser was recovering from a marriage break up and missing his daughter, Parker. What happens next left me reeling...
I need to start by saying LOVED this book. I cannot overstate this. Emma Grey broke my heart and then put it together piece by piece. I loved her use of Start and End in the book. I initially found the switching between Emma and Fraser's voices a little disorientating, but ultimately loved the way she weaved them together. I love music of all sorts and the use of music within the story heightened my emotional response and investment in the story. This story is heartbreaking and beautiful and magnificent and life affirming. In case I still need to say, I wanted this book to go on forever, but I couldn't stop reading it and so finished it in the early hours of the morning. A must read.
I need to start by saying LOVED this book. I cannot overstate this. Emma Grey broke my heart and then put it together piece by piece. I loved her use of Start and End in the book. I initially found the switching between Emma and Fraser's voices a little disorientating, but ultimately loved the way she weaved them together. I love music of all sorts and the use of music within the story heightened my emotional response and investment in the story. This story is heartbreaking and beautiful and magnificent and life affirming. In case I still need to say, I wanted this book to go on forever, but I couldn't stop reading it and so finished it in the early hours of the morning. A must read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book starts at the end, so if you’re like me, you might think you know where this story is going…but I would almost bet you’ll be wrong - like me!
Taking the “sliding doors” concept and running with it, Emma Grey explores themes of grief and second chance romance against a classical music background. I think this book is fun to go into blind and just let Grey’s poetic words and storytelling sweep you away!
Audrey and Fraser made me believe in love and I was rooting for them. Their care and love towards each other was something we all hope to find in life. But what would happen if that love was stolen away from you? Will you ever find love again?
While I did enjoy this reading experience, The Last Love Note is still the better story (imo). I have yet to read Pictures of You (it’s on my TBR!), but I do think Emma Grey is an author I can turn to when I want a good romance that also handles the heavy topic of grief.
Taking the “sliding doors” concept and running with it, Emma Grey explores themes of grief and second chance romance against a classical music background. I think this book is fun to go into blind and just let Grey’s poetic words and storytelling sweep you away!
Audrey and Fraser made me believe in love and I was rooting for them. Their care and love towards each other was something we all hope to find in life. But what would happen if that love was stolen away from you? Will you ever find love again?
While I did enjoy this reading experience, The Last Love Note is still the better story (imo). I have yet to read Pictures of You (it’s on my TBR!), but I do think Emma Grey is an author I can turn to when I want a good romance that also handles the heavy topic of grief.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It took me a little while to get into this book, as it was written with a sliding doors element that I needed to adjust to. However, as with all Emma’s books, once I was in, I was IN! While I adored Aubrey, Fraser, and Frankie, I also loved how much music featured as a character.
I have followed Emma on Instagram for a while and I recall her saying how this was her hardest book to write, and she didn’t know how she was going to pull it off. I was thinking of this while reading and yes, I wondered that too. And yes, she did.
This beautiful book deals with so many tricky elements of life – death, grief, addiction, friendship, love, mental health and more – and they are written with so much care and compassion that it was a joy to read. And yes, you will need tissues.
Thank you Emma.
4.5 stars
Thank you very much Netgalley and Allen & Unwin for an advance copy, I really appreciated it.
November 21, 2025
Emma Grey creates another epic soulmate story with Start at the End! If you have not picked up this romance author yet, you absolutely need to. Her work always adds depth and complexity to the romance. You are able to connect with the characters and their relationship on levels that most romance novels don't offer.
The story is very original and engaging. Emma Grey realistically portrays grief and effortlessly weaves it into the story. The author often uses this theme, and it is always done so well. The storyline shows you that your life can change with the littlest decisions. This is not my favorite by this author, but it was still amazing. Highly recommend!
Thank you Zibby Publishing & Emma Grey for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Start at the End will be released on April 7, 2026!
The story is very original and engaging. Emma Grey realistically portrays grief and effortlessly weaves it into the story. The author often uses this theme, and it is always done so well. The storyline shows you that your life can change with the littlest decisions. This is not my favorite by this author, but it was still amazing. Highly recommend!
Thank you Zibby Publishing & Emma Grey for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Start at the End will be released on April 7, 2026!
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