The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid (A Review by Sarah Doherty)

Rating: 5/5

Right off the bat: I cannot recommend this book enough! I loved the narrative, the characters, how much it drew me in and made me feel – I was captivated.

The story begins not with Evelyn Hugo but with Monique Grant, a writer whose career isn’t exactly taking off and whose life is misdirected in the midst of her divorce. Then Evelyn Hugo, a Hollywood icon with a story to tell, specifically requests Monique to write her biography, leaving Monique more than a little confused. Why her? Why now? Needless to say, she puts all questions aside and agrees to write the piece she is sure will launch career. Monique begins meeting Evelyn at her home and Evelyn does not spare any of the details of her life – the secrets, the scandal, the intimacy, and every complexity in between. Monique begins to develop an understanding of the Hollywood starlet and her unique way of living life. The bond that forms between them is complex and interesting and continues to build until a surprise twist towards the end of the novel that leaves Monique unsure how to feel about Evelyn and the secrets she has kept.

Throughout it all, you learn about the loves of Evelyn’s life, you get drawn into their lives, their emotions, the struggles they face in the spotlight (and out of it); you begin to absolutely loathe or adore each of these characters for what they bring to Evelyn’s life and you feel you are right there with them, living it all. This novel opens the door wide up on Evelyn Hugo’s fascinating life – the stardom, the sexuality, the power. It will make you laugh, it will make you cry, and above all it will leave you wanting more.

I would absolutely recommend The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo for The Girly Book Club or for anyone looking for a captivating read this summer!

A review by Sarah Doherty