SYNOPSIS:
From the author of Daisy Jones & The Six-an entrancing novel “that speaks to the Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor in us all” (Kirkus Reviews), in which a legendary film actress reflects on her relentless rise to the top and the risks she took, the loves she lost, and the long-held secrets the public could never imagine.
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.A mesmerizing journey through the splendor of old Hollywood into the harsh realities of the present day as two women struggle with what it means-and what it costs-to face the truth.
This synopsis was found at Waterstones
I must confess that this is the first ever book I have purchased because of seeing it all over social media. I have ended up in the lovely world of Book-tok and have heard nothing but good things about this book. So, on my latest trip to London for my 30th, I walked into the Leicester Square Waterstones with my Boyfriend and he told me I could choose any book I wanted. I went straight to the table with this book on it.
I am not sure what I want to convey in my review/opinion on this book other than I want you to go and read it. I have never read anything like this before and I know it will be a stand-out of my 2022 reads.
I loved being taken back to ‘old-school’ Hollywood. The glamour, the heartache and the reality of what it really took to become a name. The journey through the decades, following characters who you hate and then feel sorry for and most importantly, following the rise and fall of Evelyn Hugo who is unapologetic in everything she does.
This book really did open my eyes to what it did take to rise to fame. Whether that be faking relationships or planting certain articles to be written about you. So much of it was a game, just to get your name out there.
I cannot recommend this book enough. I read it in just a couple days and felt a hole of emptiness when I finished the book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Here is a link to the book on Amazon if you wish to take a look (affiliate link)
Until next time,
Marie-Clare x
marieclaresworld 