Reviewing the album for AllMusic, Andy Kellman observed "the generally softer and sweeter backdrops, which lean toward modern adult contemporary R&B and at times are plain, allow Nao to do more with her voice, a lithe soprano that glides, swoops, and flutters without strain".

[4] Alexis Petridis of The Guardian commended the album by stating the "mood never feels trite on And Then Life Was Beautiful, but oddly infectious instead, perhaps because the songs are really strong, the lyrics admirably uncliched.

"[5] Writing for NME, Kyann-Sian Williams felt the album "captures a sense of healing, and offers hope" and labelled it as "a true celebration of R&B".

He noted that while And Then Life Was Beautiful doesn't completely reinvent Nao's style, the album is a significant milestone in her journey towards self-actualization.

[5] Amelia Kelly of Clash lauded the album by stating that "the gorgeous vocals, the radiant tones, the graceful guitar – manifests enlightened bliss.