Book Review - Emma Grey - Pictures of You
Some books have that rare ability to pull you in so completely that the real world fades away. Pictures of You by Emma Grey is one of them. It’s the first of Grey’s novels I’ve read, but it certainly won’t be the last.
This novel is a beautifully written, deeply emotional story about Evie Hudson, a woman navigating loss, love, and complex relationships. The book unfolds through a dual timeline, and while it takes a little adjusting, it’s worth sticking with it—the final reveal is masterfully done. Grey weaves the past and present together seamlessly, giving readers a slow-burn understanding of Evie’s journey.
One of the things I appreciated most about Pictures of You is that it’s romantic and hopeful without being cheesy. There’s a realness to Evie’s experiences and emotions that makes her feel like someone you might know—or even see parts of yourself in. It’s the kind of novel that keeps you turning pages late into the night, completely forgetting about whatever else you were supposed to be doing. I devoured it in two days.
Grey’s writing is both lyrical and grounded, making every moment feel authentic. The dialogue is natural, the emotions hit hard, and there’s an honesty to Evie’s struggles that lingers with you even after you’ve finished reading. While the book does touch on some sensitive themes, they are handled with care and depth, adding layers of meaning rather than weighing the story down.
At its core, Pictures of You is about resilience, rediscovering joy, and the unexpected ways life can surprise us. It’s the kind of novel that stays with you. If you love contemporary fiction with emotional depth, characters you’ll genuinely care about, and a storyline that keeps you hooked, this is a must-read.
I’m giving Pictures of You 4.5 out of 5 stars—and adding Emma Grey to my list of go-to Australian authors.
