The Seventh Veil of Salome by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

*** Review ***

Silvia Moreno-Garcia once again demonstrates her unparalleled ability to seamlessly navigate through genres and time periods in her latest masterpiece, The Seventh Veil of Salome. As a long-time admirer of Moreno-Garcia’s work, I was thrilled to embark on this sumptuous historical epic set against the glitz and glamour of 1950s Hollywood, where the real drama unfolds behind the scenes.

The novel introduces us to the coveted role of Salome, a character that every actress dreams of playing in a big-budget film. However, the narrative transcends the silver screen, diving into the lives of three compelling women: the mysterious Salome herself, the unknown Mexican ingenue Vera Larios, and the ambitious bit player Nancy Hartley. Moreno-Garcia skillfully intertwines their stories, offering a tantalizing blend of gossip, scandal, and intrigue.

What struck me most about The Seventh Veil of Salome is the author’s fearless exploration of the dark underbelly of Hollywood during the Golden Age. Moreno-Garcia delves into the rotten core of the entertainment industry, confronting issues of racism, sexism, and cutthroat competition. The novel serves as a mirror reflecting the dynamics of today’s film industry, where diversity is making strides, yet white privilege and the scrutiny of women’s personal lives persist in the age of social media.

The storytelling unfolds in a half-documentary style with multiple narrations, expertly weaving the tale of Salome into the fabric of 1950s Hollywood. As we delve into Salome’s saga, we are introduced to Vera Larios, an unassuming Mexican actress thrust into the limelight. Moreno-Garcia masterfully portrays Vera’s transformation from a meek ingenue to a resilient woman, navigating the treacherous waters of fame and gossip. The character of Nancy Hartley, with her impulsiveness and ambition, adds a layer of complexity, making her both detestable and, in a strange way, understandable.

Moreno-Garcia’s exceptional research skills shine through, providing a vivid and realistic portrait of 1950s Hollywood. The incorporation of film noir and thriller elements keeps the narrative engaging, with a foreboding sense that tragedy looms, mirroring Salome’s own story. The author’s ability to seamlessly shift between different perspectives and timelines adds depth to the storytelling, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives.

The characters in The Seventh Veil of Salome are flawlessly layered, making them relatable and multifaceted. Despite my initial inclination to dislike Nancy, I found myself understanding the desperation that can drive even the rashest decisions. Salome, in all her cunning and defiance, becomes a figure to root for as she takes control of her destiny.

This book deserves every bit of its five blazing La La Land stars. It is a brilliant blend of women’s fiction and historical fiction that not only entertains but also provides a thought-provoking commentary on the price of ambition and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of fame. Silvia Moreno-Garcia has once again proven herself as a literary chameleon, effortlessly delivering a captivating narrative that will linger in the minds of readers long after the final curtain falls.

In conclusion, The Seventh Veil of Salome is a whirlwind of ambition, power, and tragedy set against the backdrop of Hollywood’s golden era. It is a must-read for those who appreciate masterful storytelling, rich character development, and a nuanced exploration of the complexities within the entertainment industry. Silvia Moreno-Garcia continues to be a literary force to be reckoned with, leaving her mark on the literary landscape with each dazzling tale she weaves.