What We're Reading: Jan

Furious Love: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and the Marriage of the Century by Sam Kashner and Nancy Schoenberger


Even the title of this new book about Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton is telling: “furious love”. Definitions of furious - stormy, turbulent, and full of fury - all describe this famous relationship of nearly 25 years. Their meeting on the set of Cleopatra and the scandalous affair that broke up both of their marriages led to a vagabond lifestyle with children in tow, great and not-so great filmmaking, and alcoholism. Their passion is legendary and fueled both love and the basis for their nickname, the “Brawling Burtons". The Burtons lived extravagantly with famous jewels that Elizabeth adored (and expected), a yacht, entourages of family and assistants and homes around the world. It was an over-the-top existence lived by a couple that was defiant in their lifestyle. The paparazzi were relentless, revealing all the drama to the world (including the Vatican who condemned their behavior). The authors were able to delve deep into the soul of the couple with Elizabeth Taylor and Burton family interviews and access to Richard’s diaries and love letters. The result is an extremely readable, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most tempestuous romances in recent history.