Ari: The Life and Times of Aristotle Socrates Onassis

At Onassis's request, Evans agreed to write the late financier's biography in 1968, a project halted when he married Jacqueline Kennedy. The author revived the idea after Onassis died in 1975. The Smyrna-born man, who was to become universally notorious as ""Ari,'' started early to distort facts to suit himself, for instance updating his birthdate from 1900. As a youth, he was already a daunting competitor, making the money on which he built his fortune. Apparently, the driving forces in the Greek magnate's life were acquiring money and women. Dwelling on Onassis's intricate business deals and entanglements with the law, the author tells little more than is already well known about his subject's relationships with public figures. The writing is rather dull, showing diligent research but not the flair that could vivify Ari as a phenomenal character. There are, however, sufficient notes about his wives, children, Maria Callas and other mistresses to intrigue if not satisfy readers. Photos not seen by PW. First serial to Redbook; Literary Guild alternate. (June)