I read this at the recommendation of someone and I think that someone owes me a box of tissue.
What to even say about this? I was at a loss for words when I finished reading this last night, and I'm still struggling.
I don't want to recap the book because that has been done before already and I feel that it would be full of spoilers if I attempted to.
The way the book was organized to take us on this journey was clever. It is alternately narrated by Monique, the reporter who has been appointed to write the biography of Evelyn (Herrera) Hugo, and Evelyn herself. Going back and forth between past and present while we move forward through time in the different era's of each of Evelyn's seven husbands. Tricky but creative. And it worked.
This entire book had me feeling so angry and heartbroken. I kept thinking about how terrible it was that people had to do so much to maintain secrecy out of fear of ridicule (or worse). Then I had to remind myself that it is still that way today at times and in some places. I have been so fortunate that I have been able to live my truth with very little conflict or turmoil.
I read a 1 star review for this saying race and whatever was added to be titillating. I wish I could say that was funny considering the themes of this book. Clearly that person didn't understand the message. But it just isn't funny, it is sad. I appreciated the diversity. Half back/white narrator. Black boss. Cuban American title character. That isn't titillating, it is representative of the REAL WORLD.
Ultimately this story is about the love of Evelyn Hugo's life and her desire to tell her truth once and for all. She experience so much pain and hardship through all phases of her life. It was difficult reading everything she goes through. But I felt that one thing lead to another authentically. I think her actions were based on her experiences. I didn't agree with some of them, but I could understand them.
The ending was a surprise, for sure. The author did a great job of planting seeds throughout the book that kept you hooked to want to know what this was all about.
Evelyn was full of sexuality and sex was a constant theme. I'm so impressed how the author wrote about it without ever being explicit.
In the end, I was moved by the story. I shed many tears. I may not have liked Evelyn Hugo. I don't think we are really supposed to. But I definitely felt empathy and sadness. As well as a sense that I had read something wonderful.
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![The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo: A Novel by [Taylor Jenkins Reid]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Ohor4O+rL._SY346_.jpg)
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Customer reviews
One of the most incredible stories I've read so far....
Reviewed in the United States on November 20, 2019
I’m just coming out and say it here and now – this book deserves ALL the stars. Not only because of Evelyn Hugo herself, but also because of the story, the plotting, and all the emotions it evoked in me. It’s with one word a MASTERPIECE!!!I don’t think it’s necessary for me to talk about the inner workings of this book. Just let me tell you, that Evelyn Hugo is one of the most intriguing and fascinating characters I’ve read this year.Strong, ruthless, beautiful, and loving. She deserved an Oscar for her performance.Her life was incredibly fascinating. And each husband brought her closer to her ultimate goal.I honestly didn’t know what the book was about when I picked it up. I had no idea where it was going, and that alone, this uniquely different portrait of a Hollywood bombshell, made this book so much more unforgettable.It was emotional, heart-breaking at times, touching, and never less than amazing.I know that I’ll be reading everything this author is releasing from here on out. I’m hooked. Two 5 star books in one year by the same author is all the proof I need.BRAVO!!!
Reviewed in the United States on November 20, 2019
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Chelley Toy - TalesOfYesterday
Addictive and Special
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 15, 2021
Chelley Toy - TalesOfYesterday
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 15, 2021
An historical love story with a bisexual narrator, a famous old Hollywood actress, and all of her seven marriages. It tells the story of Evelyn, who wants to be famous, who learns early on in life that to get what she wants she has to play the part in every sense of the word. Now in her seventies Evelyn wants to share her life story with journalist Monique who has been personally picked by Evelyn. A tell all memoir about her life and her rise to fame. The glitz and glam of old Hollywood, the manipulation, the scandal, Hollywood cover ups, having to conform to society norms of the time and what it meant to be gay/bisexual during that time period.
It felt like non fiction. Like I was reading about Monroe or Elizabeth Taylor. Everything was so detailed. All the characters felt so real. Evelyn is flawed, ambitious and strong. A completely unapologetic character, manipulative and selfish who I loved! There are times she will frustrate you as a reader, but she is compelling and unforgettable! And with each husband she captivated me more with her spell.
The real reason for Evelyn picking Monique is intriguing and kept me hooked in the present day story telling. Evelyn’s rollercoaster life flows chronologically over the years and covers topics such as LGBTQ+ rights, diversity, female empowerment, sexuality, found family, motherhood and love. It is as much a story about Evelyn as it is about Harry and Celia’s life too. These two characters completely had my heart. I went on as much of an emotional journey with them as I did with Evelyn.
Taylor Jenkins Reid is without a doubt, a fantastic story teller. The way she writes her characters and their lives is addictive and very special.
Enough of my gushing. Remember. Life is short. Life is precious. Live life without regret. Hold loved ones tightly. Love who you love. Make memories to last a life time. Laugh. But most of all be unapologetically you! Always! ❤️
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Amazon Customer
It’s not a heterosexual love story FYI
Reviewed in Canada on June 18, 2019Reader1996
I want her to be real!
Reviewed in India on December 4, 2020
Reader1996
Reviewed in India on December 4, 2020
What do I say about this woman now? In the novel, she's someone who always leaves you desiring for more. And in reality, she leaves you feeling the same way. How? Because she's fictional and you'd so wish she wasn't. You'd wish she were here (or at least had used to be), that her experiences were just as real as that heart throbbing inside you, that her movies had really been made and could be watched instantly after you finished reading the book! But alas... she is imaginary and that sucks. 'Cause she's one of the most alluring, intriguing, inspirational, and beautiful women that could ever be.
No, she wasn't perfect. But then that is not what being powerfully independent means anyway, does it?
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