REVIEW: THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO, BY TAYLOR JENKINS REID

 

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.

My Thoughts: For all those who love iconic celebrities, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo might just be the most addictive read ever.

I was quickly drawn into Evelyn’s story, as told to young writer Monique Grant, and although the dual narratives and timelines could have been challenging, they were seamless and captivating. As if the two women, decades apart and so different in life experiences, had suddenly developed one voice, Evelyn’s story flowed, and when there was a pause, we had the opportunity to peek into Monique’s Manhattan life as a newly single woman going through a divorce.

The stunning reveal at the end was one I truly did not see coming. It answered questions I had, however, about why Monique was singled out to write Evelyn’s memoir.

By the end, I did not want to say goodbye to either character, as I was caught up in the lives of both women. 5 stars.

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