Book Review: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

“People think that intimacy is about sex. But intimacy is about truth. When you realize you can tell someone your truth, when you can show yourself to them, when you stand in front of them bare and their response is ‘you’re safe with me’- that’s intimacy.”

Taylor Jenkins Reid, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Review:

I’ve noticed a trend lately of not liking books as much as the majority. I’m sad that this was the case for this book since I’ve been so excited about (finally) reading it. 

I didn’t dislike it. I just didn’t like it nearly as much as I liked Daisy Jones & The Six and Malibu Rising. I loved the older Hollywood setting and the deception that came along with that time. I was hooked on the story, and I was thrilled to be reminded that this book is where we first hear the name Mick Riva. My biggest problem lies with Evelyn Hugo. I didn’t like her character, and though that’s the point in a way, I had so much trouble finding any sympathy for her give or take a few moments. I also like books where I can relate to the situations and/or characters, so there was that barrier for me as well.

I’m glad I read it and there were parts I enjoyed (namely Harry’s character) and as always, Taylor Jenkins Reid’s writing was wonderful. Though this one was more of a miss for me, I’m still counting the days until her newest release.

Likes & Dislikes:

What I liked:

• Evelyn’s friendship with Harry. It was so sweet.
• The time period and the (surface) aesthetic of Hollywood at that time.
• Seeing Mick Riva again (had I realized he was in this, I might have made it a point to read this before Malibu Rising).
• The fictional movies.
• The letter Evelyn gives to Monique.

What I didn’t like:

• The monogamy (though mostly platonic). It’s something I personally have a difficult time reading.
• Evelyn. I didn’t like her character, though I do feel bad she had a rough time of it especially later on in the book.
• A little too much of a romance for me though I was fairly aware of what I was getting into.
• Some of the more political topics.

Afterthoughts:

This was the buddy read for July with Book Santas and Lovers on Discord. It was great reading another book by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Even though it wasn’t my favorite, I can see why it’s maintained its popularity. TJR has a knack for writing very human characters which is my favorite thing about her books.

I might have enjoyed this book more even a few months ago, but one of the storylines, although minor, was hitting too close to home for me. Where it was mentioned early on in the book, I had that initial panic that it was going to be something consistent throughout the book. Thankfully, it only went into detail near the end, but it was still something I’d rather not be reading about right now. I won’t mention what exactly due to it being a partial spoiler.

Where to buy the book: