Start at the End: A Novel

by Emma Grey

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.

Genres: Romance

400 pages, Paperback

Expected publication April 7, 2026

About the author

Emma 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.

Reviews

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Madeline Church · Rating 4 out of 5]

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!

[BHK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Start at the End completely wrecked me! It’s one of those rare books that hits deep emotionally but still feels hopeful by the final page. Emma Grey’s writing is so beautiful and lyrical. She captures love and grief with this raw honesty that sticks with you. Audrey and Fraser’s story isn’t just a romance, but about what happens when life veers off course and you’re forced to face every “what if” you’ve ever had. It made me think about how tiny moments can change everything. It’s sad, but also deeply life affirming. A beautifully written, emotional story that reminds you it’s never too late to start again. I’ll be thinking about this one for a long time!

[Hannah Winegar]

Aubrey and Fraser meet in an unexpected way, and their story is even more unexpected. When tragedy strikes, the book breaks in to two timelines, trying to answer the question of "what if"?

AND that's all I can give without major spoilers. I went into this book mostly blind having read Pictures of You. It made me think about my life and some what ifs, but I'm still not sure if I liked this book. It took me a lot longer to finish than anticipated because I found myself not really caring, and the alternative timelines were pretty cliche.

Thanks, NetGalley!

[Jessica Brusven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grey is a master storyteller and this novel is another gut wrenching love story of hers! Fraser and Audrey’s story is told in two dualing timelines in a story that explores the “what ifs” we all wonder about when it comes to our life choices and the events that have changed us. It’s both beautifully written and paced well, while still remaining unique for the romance category. It provides more depth to the characters and dives beyond just the protagonist love story and gives the reader insight into how their love impacts those around them.