The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo A Novel

Is that really for what Evelyn Hugo wants to be remember for?

Bérénice aus Jona am 16.10.2023
Bewertungsnummer: 2044967
Bewertet: Buch (Taschenbuch)

"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" is a novelised biography of a fictive movie star Evelyn Hugo. It was overall a very enjoyable read, you soon get deep into the story and it’s written in a compelling way, that makes it a total page-turner. As the story unfolds revealing the reasons behind Evelyn Hugo’s eccentric behaviour of chosing Monique as her biographer, it seems like a tad too predictable… But then I did shed a small tear reading the closing paragraphs. But then, the book screams EVELYN HUGO and over-feminity at every page. Evelyn Hugo is more than a person and it’s an icon, estranged to Evelyn herself… And that is where the focus could have been put in a different, more empowering angle, for this astonishing woman. But her seven husbands - already mentioned in the title and subsequently giving all the structure to the novel - are in the spotlight next to this icon. Of course, it is scandalous to have had so many husbands and every gossip magazine is wondering why. But then wouldn’t it have been more empowering for Evelyn and her one true love to tell the story of the person she really is - deep inside? Maintaining the focus on the seven husbands is somewhat “reducing” the icon to her public romantic life… Is that really for what Evelyn Hugo wants to be remember for?

Hands down, one of the best books I have ever read

Nicol aus Wien am 27.04.2023
Bewertungsnummer: 1930823
Bewertet: Buch (Taschenbuch)

This book sat untouched on my shelf for more than a year, despite its glowing reputation. I was apprehensive to read it, fearing disappointment. But upon finishing, I was left completely shattered. The impact of the story was overwhelming. Evelyn Hugo's journey, and the trials she faced, shaped her into a complex and flawed character. Despite the poor choices she made, I couldn't help but empathize with her. It was a reminder that we are all human, and our pasts shape us in ways we may not anticipate. Reading this book was a visceral experience. I felt a warmth in my chest that only comes with reading a truly captivating story. The book was practically glued to my hands; I couldn't bear to put it down. By the 300th page, I was unsure if I could handle what was to come. But by the end, I was overcome with emotion, tears streaming down my face. This book has left a lasting impression on me, and I cannot recommend it enough.