A review by effinalice
The Seventh Veil of Salome by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

medium-paced

5.0

 

I continue to be in awe of Silvia Moreno-Garcia's versatility and execution in writing across an array of genres and time periods. Every single book I've read by her thus far has the uncanny ability to transport me to its respective setting, and The Seventh Veil of Salome is no exception. 

 

In this novel, Garcia transports us to the glamorous yet challenging world of 1950s Hollywood. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, following three women who are each striving to carve out a space for themselves in a society that strips them of agency. We first meet Vera, a talented Mexican actress cast as the lead in Salome, and Nancy, an ambitious American woman determined to achieve her dreams. Interwoven with their narratives is an alternate storyline that brings the tale of Salome to life, adding a rich layer of intrigue and drama. 

 

I might be in the minority here, but I find that I most enjoy Garcia's works that don't include speculative elements. Her research into different time periods pays off in her vivid portrayal of her setting and characters. The Seventh Veil of Salome is purely historical fiction, free from any fantastical components, and I loved every second of it. The detailed exploration of the era and the depth of the characters made this my favorite book by her so far. 

 

Thank you to NetGalley and Del Rey for providing an advance reader's copy of The Seventh Veil of Salome.