Can Evelyn Hugo live up to Daisy Jones?
Evelyn Hugo – the blurb
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.
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.
That’s Hollywood for you
After reading the FAB U LOUS Daisy Jones and The Six I backtracked and bought Evelyn Hugo. It predates Daisy but both feature strong, famous women and their love lives. In Evelyn we have switched from the music industry to the film industry along with all the glitz and the glamour that it brings.
I won’t spoil the surprise(s) but you just knew there was going to be a link to Monique. I was waiting for it and pounced on it when the first hint was delivered. The book actually highlighted some very strong issues, and I found it quite woke in its approach despite Jenkins Reid writing about 1950s Hollywood. I mostly enjoyed the book though for its Jilly Cooper streak. Glamorous, rich actors bedhopping and Oscar winning. What’s not to love? Final word must be about Evelyn – a confident, resourceful woman who was unapologetic to the last. Fabulous character.