The aging Hollywood queen, Evelyn Hugo, from "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" decides to leave the writing of her memoir in the hands of an unknown reporter named Monique Grant. Evelyn's story, telling tales from her emergence in 1950s Hollywood to leaving the spotlights in the '80s and her seven husbands, is a tale of ambition, friendship, and forbidden love.

Grasping her own life issues, Monique grows a special connection with Evelyn and realizes unbearable similarities between their lives. This fascinating story showcases the beauty of old Hollywood and the harshness that can come with truth.

The Author

New York Times bestselling book author and screenwriter Taylor Jenkins Reid explores love and romance in her works. Her latest #1 New York Times bestseller, "Carrie Soto Is Back," is part of a quartet focusing on the lives of famous women - a depiction inspired by Serena Williams' comeback attempt.

Her previous bestsellers "Malibu Rising" and "Daisy Jones & The Six" showcase Reid's signature style, the former set for adaptation into a Hulu series. Reid's acclaimed works, including "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo," have earned her recognition and adaptation interest, solidifying her status as a prominent literary figure in Los Angeles.

A Captivating Journey into Hollywood's Glamorous Past

According to an article by Stephen Writes, Reid wrote a captivating novel, almost akin to a biography. Evelyn chooses Monique to write her life story, unveiling the actress's journey through multiple marriages, showbiz intricacies, and profound secrets.

The writing radiates authenticity, offering emotional depth and a unique central romance. However, the focus on Evelyn sometimes overshadows Monique, affecting her development. Despite this, the novel excels in portraying Evelyn as a complex, unapologetic character. The overarching romance, Evelyn's relationships, and insightful glimpses into Hollywood's bygone era contribute to the book's emotional depth and engagement.

The narrative, filled with honest storytelling and ferocity, captures Evelyn's extraordinary life, making her an iconic, albeit flawed, fictional goddess. While not universally loved, the novel succeeds in spotlighting poignant moments in Evelyn's life, showcasing Reid's faultless writing and creating a captivating narrative.

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Conflicting Feelings and Mixed Emotions

In a review of The Lit Bitch, the reviewer struggled with conflicting feelings about the book. While disliking Evelyn's ruthlessness and manipulative nature, the reviewer admired her complexity. The central love story is compelling, modern, and interesting, yet the characters involved are equally unlikeable.

The tragedy in the narrative evokes emotional responses despite the lack of connection with any character. The protagonist, Monique, appears one-dimensional. The reviewer wished for a more substantial role for her. 

Although the book is well-written, emotional depth defies expectations, and the Hollywood aspects are enjoyable, the characters' unlikeability and unmet expectations lead to uncertainty in the rating, settling on three stars for the unique but conflicting experience. Despite reservations, the reviewer said she recommends the book for its memorable and moving plot.

Hollywood's Golden Era and Personal Journeys

An article by Washburn Review says that the book is a captivating exploration of Evelyn's rise from an abusive background to become Hollywood's biggest star. The book delves into Evelyn's seven marriages, her true love, and the challenges of being LGBTQ+ in 1950s-1980s Hollywood. Through Evelyn, the author skillfully addresses various social concerns women face.

The novel engages readers with its charm, remarkable storytelling, and enigmatic characters. Written from Evelyn and Monique's perspectives, it seamlessly weaves their stories together. The book not only unfolds Evelyn's life but also presents strong representations and deeper meanings. The reviewer recommended the book for its rich narrative and meaningful values.

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