Let Them All Talk

Alice Hughes, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, is diligently working on her new manuscript, which is anticipated as a follow-up to her acclaimed book, *You Always/You Never*. As she prepares to accept a literary award in the UK, her health presents a significant obstacle, hindering her ability to fly.

To overcome her flight dilemma, Alice's agent, Karen, proposes that she make the journey across the Atlantic aboard the Queen Mary 2. To accompany her, Alice invites her nephew Tyler and two old university friends, Roberta and Susan, rekindling old friendships as they embark on this voyage together.

Boarding the ship, the dynamic among Alice, Roberta, and Susan begins to reveal underlying tensions. Roberta expresses her resentment, believing Alice's work has unfairly appropriated elements of her life, leading to her own misfortunes.

Unbeknownst to Alice, Karen has her own motives for joining the voyage. She aims to extract details about Alice's new book, eager to ensure that it aligns with the expectations of the publisher who craves a sequel to *You Always/You Never*.

Amidst her writing, a friendship blossoms between Karen and Tyler. Their camaraderie deepens as they share experiences aboard the ship, allowing Karen to glean insights into Alice's work while also navigating her personal challenges.

While Alice remains focused on her writing, Roberta attempts to attract wealthy suitors aboard the ship, fully engaging with the social scene. She encourages Tyler to investigate the backgrounds of potential partners, showcasing her adventurous spirit.

Tensions escalate between Alice and Roberta as the latter confronts Alice regarding the inspiration for her writing. Their attempts to connect are thwarted, leading to feelings of resentment and disappointment on both sides.

During a dinner gathering, the frustrated relationship between Alice and Roberta reaches a boiling point. Old grudges come to the forefront, and Susan intervenes to remind both women of their shared history and the importance of moving beyond past grievances.

Facing the mounting pressure of expectations for her new book, Alice wrestles with self-doubt. She contemplates deleting her manuscript, fearing it may never live up to the success of her previous works.

As the voyage draws to a close, Alice and Roberta share a poignant moment reflecting on their strained relationship. Roberta offers to share personal experiences for Alice’s book in exchange for a percentage of the profits, but Alice declines.

The following morning, Tyler receives devastating news from Dr. Mitchell, revealing that Alice has passed away from deep vein thrombosis. The sudden tragedy creates a profound impact on those who cherished her.

In the aftermath of Alice's death, Tyler, Roberta, and Susan honor her wishes by paying tribute at the grave of 19th-century author Blodwyn Pugh. This moment serves as a testament to Alice's literary legacy and the bonds formed during their journey.

Back in the United States, Roberta attempts to capitalize on Alice's unpublished works but is met with rejection from Karen, who deems them unpublishable. Meanwhile, Roberta begins writing about her own life experiences, inspired by Alice.

Susan partners with Kelvin Krantz to co-author a book inspired by a concept she shared aboard the Queen Mary 2. This collaboration signifies a new chapter in her life, shaped by the experiences they shared on the voyage.

As Tyler returns Alice's unfinished manuscript to her apartment, he reflects on her profound appreciation for the interconnectedness of lives. Alice's influence continues to resonate with him and others who were touched by her creativity.