66 pages • 2 hours read
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
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Book Brief
391
Novel • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • 1950s-1980s
2017
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid follows Monique, a junior reporter, who gets an exclusive opportunity to write the biography of reclusive 1960s Hollywood starlet Evelyn Hugo. Evelyn recounts her rise to fame, her seven marriages, and hidden true love, revealing the sacrifices and scandals behind her public persona. Evelyn shares her journey from Hell’s Kitchen to Hollywood stardom, her strategic marriages, and her enduring relationship with Celia St. James, which she keeps secret due to societal pressures. Monique’s tumultuous professional and personal life parallels Evelyn’s dramatic revelations about ambition, love, and identity.
Emotional
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Romantic
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
3,577,849 ratings
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Review Roundup
Taylor Jenkins Reid's The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo skillfully intertwines a glamorous Hollywood era with contemporary themes of identity and love, resonating with readers through its complex characters and engaging narrative. Critics praise its emotional depth and evocative writing, though some feel the plot occasionally strains believability. Overall, a compelling read.
Who Should Read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo?
Readers who savor celebrity intrigue, complex heroines, and dramatic twists will relish The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Ideal for fans of Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty and Daisy Jones & The Six also by Reid, this novel captivates with Hollywood glamour and profound emotional depths.
3,577,849 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Evelyn Hugo
Evelyn Hugo
Evelyn is a former 1960s Hollywood actress who aims to release a tell-all biography at the end of her life. She rose to fame using her beauty and cunning while hiding her Cuban heritage and true identity. Evelyn grapples with themes of morality and identity, ultimately choosing to embrace the truth about her life and her love for another actress, Celia.
Celia St. James
Celia St. James
Celia is a successful actress and the love of Evelyn's life. She hails from a wealthy Georgia family and is known for her accessible beauty. Celia is idealistic and vulnerable, contrasting with Evelyn's cynicism. She struggles with accepting Evelyn's bisexuality and the complexities of their relationship while serving as a moral foil for Evelyn.
Harry Cameron
Harry Cameron
Harry is Evelyn's ex-husband, best friend, and the father of her child. A Hollywood producer, he champions Evelyn's career and shares a deep platonic bond with her. Harry lives his life in the closet and raises his daughter with Evelyn, embodying chosen family dynamics. His character underscores themes of moral ambiguity, making a fatal mistake that impacts those he loves.
391
Novel • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • 1950s-1980s
2017
Adult
18+ years
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