4.5/5 Stars
First of all, I'd like to preface this review by stating that historical fiction is not a genre I would normally pick up and was skeptical about whether I would enjoy it or not. I decided that, due to the LGBTQ+ representation, the beautiful cover and the intriguing plot, I would give it a chance.
This book drew me in from the start, the opening being an article about Evelyn Hugo. I immediately wanted to know more about her life and her past and continue reading. As someone who has a hard time being drawn into books from the first page, I already knew that this book would be special to me and a page turner. I didn't care so much for the character of Monique, but she was interesting enough to keep my interest and stay engaged in the story.
I have never read a book set in Hollywood in the 50s, so this was very new to me and I immediately became engrossed in the story. I loved the glamour and the fame that was shown in the book, but also the raw and ugly side of a life within the rich and famous. I devoured the way Reid wrote her characters and Evelyn's personality and thoughts toward her own choices in life. Evelyn, though unlikable to some, was very likeable to me; she knew that she had flaws and refused to apologise for them, she was happy with the way her life turned out regardless of who she may have hurt in the process.
I was engrossed in Evelyn's relationships throughout the story, how they intertwined with each other and how they came to life through Reid's words. I usually hate reading books written in first person, but I believe the format complimented the way Reid wrote her characters. The personalities of every character shone through and kept me entertained throughout.
It's hard for a book to make me cry. It has to be a very special book to make me cry and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo was a very special book. I became attached to many of the characters in the book and I never wanted it to end.
In conclusion, this book rated a cool 4.5/5 stars for me. The only criticism of the book I have is that it ended, I crave more of Evelyn Hugo.