Becoming Liz Taylor

Becoming Elizabeth Taylor is a debut novel by Ruth Hogan that explores the themes of love, loss, and bereavement. It is a vivid and touching depiction of these themes and is set in the present and the 1970s. The novel has been shortlisted for the debut novel prize at the Festival du Premier Roman in Chambéry.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2023
Publisher: Atlantic Books

"Becoming Elizabeth Taylor" is a captivating debut novel that delves into the depths of human emotions, encompassing heartache and resilience. Authored by Ruth Hogan, a celebrated bestselling author known for her works such as "The Keeper of Lost Things," this captivating story unfolds in Weston-super-Mare, where a widow named Val finds solace in dressing up as the iconic movie star Elizabeth Taylor. Her lonely evenings spent in costume serve as a means of coping with the profound loss and sadness she has endured throughout her life.

One fateful day, while strolling along the seafront, Val's attention is caught by an unattended pram. Without a second thought, she impulsively kicks off the brake and walks away with it. This act, seemingly insignificant at first, sets in motion a series of events that will forever change the course of her life.

As Val begins to embrace her new identity as Elizabeth Taylor, she finds herself drawn into a world of glamour and intrigue. She attends lavish parties, interacts with famous personalities, and experiences a sense of exhilaration that she has never known before. However, beneath the surface of this glamorous facade, lies a deeper longing and a yearning for connection.

Through her interactions with various characters, including a young journalist named Jack and a kind-hearted neighbor named Margaret, Val begins to unravel the secrets of her past and the reasons behind her emotional detachment. She confronts the painful memories of her husband's death and the loss of her children, and slowly begins to heal the wounds that have haunted her for years.

"Becoming Elizabeth Taylor" is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the human spirit's resilience. Ruth Hogan's writing is filled with vivid descriptions and authentic emotions, making the characters relatable and compelling. The novel seamlessly switches between the present and the 1970s, providing a rich backdrop for the story.

This thought-provoking and moving fiction will appeal to fans of Rachel Joyce, Emma Healey, and Ruth Hogan, who appreciate well-crafted narratives that delve into the complexities of human relationships. "Becoming Elizabeth Taylor" is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to touch the hearts of readers.

Weight: 505g
Dimension: 223 x 145 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838958053
Edition number: Main