House of Gucci mainly focuses on the business of high fashion and the people that dominate that industry. Despite it leaning on the murder of Maurizio Gucci to provide an element of fatality to the story, the novel mostly explores the trappings of the financial world. From sadistic mind games in boardrooms to dangerous power struggles within the family, we get an exclusive insight into the legalities of operating a business, in a turbulent and ever risky financial system.
Forden heavily researches the Gucci family to create a novel that is indifferent to the reality that befell their dynasty. Unlike the novel, the feature film of the same name focuses much of its time exploring the relationship Maurizio had with his wife.
While the novel reads like a historical book, it was purposefully designed to come off as just a non-fiction. The overused financial terms and procedures might slow down the reader. It however balances out by providing a bit of humor and quick banter that are engaging enough to make it through the entire book about corporate leadership.
For a novel that was advertised as overtly glamorous and teased an exclusive peek into the secrets of wealthy dynasties, the House of Gucci reads more like a corporate management manual. The facts overshadow parts of the novel meant to invite the reader to venture into it.
