I have always been a fan of Evelyn, despite her explicit claims to be a bad person and having done awful things. Evelyn could not find true love despite being married several times; however, when she found the love of her life in a movie set as a co-star, she dedicated her life to the only woman she loved. This book is a letter to her only love, where Evelyn explains about her life before, after and when they were together.

Born as Evelyn Elena Herrera, Evelyn Hugo achieved her dream of being the biggest star of her time. Set in early Hollywood when it was very challenging for women to break into the entertainment industry, this book tells us the rise of Evelyn from an abusive household to the most prominent star in the industry. It is the story of Evelyn and her seven husbands (all dead), the love of her life and how she achieved all the fame overnight.

Through Evelyn, Taylor Jenkins Reid, the author of the book, has managed to capture every possible social concern that a woman may face throughout her life. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid delivers the challenge and scandal of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community in 1950s-80s Hollywood, and how it impacted Evelyn’s relationship with her lover. There are not enough words in my vocabulary to describe this book, but it really engages the reader until there is nothing more left to read. It is charming, remarkable, enigmatic, among other expressions.

Although this book is written from the perspectives of both Evelyn and Monique, the sole author of her biography, it does not outshine the details of Monique’s life and how she learns about her family through Evelyn. Monique’s mysterious connection to Evelyn can be learned after reading the book. The book portrays how the decisions of Evelyn impacted on her life and how she does not regret any of them.

As a reader, I strongly recommend everyone to read this book as it portrays not only Evelyn’s life but also has many strong representations. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” is not just a story about her seven husbands, but a story of deeper meanings and values.

Edited by Rakesh Swarnakar and Glorianna Noland