The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid on June 2, 2021
Genres: Fiction / Feminist, Fiction / Friendship, Fiction / General
Pages: 400
Format: Paperback
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“People think that intimacy is about sex. But intimacy is about truth. When you realize you can tell someone your truth, when you can show yourself to them, when you stand in front of them bare and their response is ‘you’re safe with me’- that’s intimacy.”
This novel tells the story of the fictional Old Hollywood star Evelyn Hugo, who at age 79 gives a final interview to an unknown journalist, Monique Grant. No one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now? Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career. 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.
It was absolutely FANASTIC! There was never a dull moment in this book. I will be taking this book to the grave with me, that’s how much I loved it. From the writing, the plot, and the characters, everything was done perfectly. I was expecting to love it since it was predicted to be a five-star rating, but I was completely blown away. The characters are utterly captivating and complex. I have never loved and hated a character so much that I am still confused on how I truly feel about them. What an extraordinary and surprising read. I absolutely adored this one.
I clearly gave this book a five-star rating. I have never once physically cried from reading a book, but it was so powerful I I couldn’t believe the tears were falling. It was so real, so pure, so touching. I just can’t believe Evelyn Hugo never existed outside of the book, how is she not a living, breathing person? There’s something about this book that makes you feel like you’re reading a true story and I easily found myself wrapped up in it.