When it comes to Silvia Moreno-Garcia, I will read practically anything she writes. I love her writing and how she is able to dabble into different genres so seamlessly from speculative to science fiction or, in this case, historical fiction. The Seventh Veil of Salome is one of my most anticipated books this year. Now having read it, this may just be Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s best work to date.
In 1950s Hollywood, the biggest production in town is “The Seventh Veil of Salome.” It’s bound to be a sword-and-sandals Biblical epic on the heels of other hit films alike with every actress clamoring for the lead role. After the studio casts an unknown Mexican ingénue named Vera Larios, much to the envy of bit player Nancy Hartley, she is thrown into the spotlight of celebrity and scandal alongside the whirlwind production of the film. At the same time, Salome’s story is also at the forefront and her love for a prophet who foresees her stepfather Herod’s demise.
There are so many things I love about this book, but I don’t want to give too much away. What I can say however and praise, is how Silvia Moreno-Garcia weaves together a tale of Hollywood and the myth that is Salome. With the story told through multiple perspectives, including Vera, Nancy, and Salome’s (or so we think), there is a build up that will have you anticipating what is in store.Through this narrative, the three women are seen or scrutinized in a certain way when there is actually much more to them than what we think we know. It all converges into a cinematic climax about dreams, desire, and identity.
I love movies. Everything about them is fascinating along with what is projected on screen. The history, the behind the scene stories, the allure of Hollywood, the artistry that goes into a film, are all pieces of how the silver screen is a place where dreams are made and come to life. Then, when you combine that with Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s impeccable writing, you get a novel that brings together the Golden Age of Hollywood, the magic of the movies, and the truth within the fantasy.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Del Rey Books for the ARC, and Silvia Moreno Garcia for the giveaway ARC.
Pub Date: August 6, 2024
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