The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Summary:

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 nears its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways. (Summary and cover courtesy of goodreads.com)

Review:

“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” was one of the most compelling books I read in a good while.  It was one of those books that gives you a shake, makes sure you’re awake, and sets a new standard for any other hyped-up book on the bestseller list.  Evelyn is a feminist goal with a clear view of her life for good, bad, and everything in between.  Her transparent telling of her sevens husbands is in turns hilarious and heartbreaking.

The read itself is fast-paced and compelling with strong, complex characters who represent a multitude of perspectives in the best way.  I was expecting a fluffy chick lit read, but the story is surprisingly nuanced, and I think will be satisfying for many audiences. 

Warning: Contains themes of suicide.

Rating: 5 stars!

Who should read it? I unequivocally would recommend this one to anyone even the slightest intrigued by the premise.

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