The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
By Taylor Jenkins Reid
Published: June 13, 2017
In this entrancing novel “that speaks to the Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor in us all” (Kirkus Reviews), a legendary film actress reflects on her relentless rise to the top and the risks she took, the loves she lost, and the long-held secrets the public could never imagine.
Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?
Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.
Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the ‘80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story near its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.
“Heartbreaking, yet beautiful” (Jamie Blynn, Us Weekly), The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is “Tinseltown drama at its finest” (Redbook): a mesmerizing journey through the splendor of old Hollywood into the harsh realities of the present day as two women struggle with what it means—and what it costs—to face the truth.
Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?
Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.
Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the ‘80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story near its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.
“Heartbreaking, yet beautiful” (Jamie Blynn, Us Weekly), The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is “Tinseltown drama at its finest” (Redbook): a mesmerizing journey through the splendor of old Hollywood into the harsh realities of the present day as two women struggle with what it means—and what it costs—to face the truth.
My review:
I love Hollywood's Golden Age and classic movies so the subject of this book really appealed to me. Evelyn is a strong character and very fascinating though not exactly easy to relate to. In a way she reminded me of Scarlett O'Hara in her drive and determination to get what she wants. Evelyn loves fame and she wants to be at the top of the game but to get there she has to sacrifice a lot and at times she makes some bad decisions. She may have been married seven times but not one of her husbands was the love of her life. Now that she is in the twilight years of her life, Evelyn is finally ready to "tell all" . Her story is sad at times because even with wealth and fame there was loneliness and all that she had to give up or keep secret for her career's sake.
The parts of the book that detail Evelyn's history and career are the most interesting to read about. While all the actors mentioned are fictional, their stories remind me of real Hollywood stars. Monique's storyline is not as interesting though everything ties together neatly in the end. Readers who are fans of Old Hollywood will be caught up in this juicy story of Hollywood history, secrets and scandals. I found it to be a page-turning story, perfect for summer reading.
Note: I received an ARC for review purposes courtesy of the publisher and Edelweiss
I'm so glad you enjoyed this book. It is definitely one of my favorites of the year. I love Old Hollywood, so this one was perfect for me. I thought Taylor Jenkins Reid did a great job making the characters seem so real...it was almost like Evelyn could have been an Old Hollywood starlet. Great review, Christina!
ReplyDeleteThe title alone is interesting enough to draw one in!
ReplyDeleteI am a fan of Hollywood's Golden age, which led me to download this book...plus, I enjoy the author. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing.
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