Summary

Reclusive Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant to write her story, no one is more astounded than Monique herself.

Determined to use this opportunity to jump-start her career, Monique listens in fascination. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to leaving show business in the ‘80s – and, of course, the seven husbands along the way – Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. But as Evelyn’s story nears its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.

Written with Reid’s signature talent for creating “complex, likable characters” (Real Simple), this is a mesmerizing journey through the splendor of Old Hollywood into the sobering realities of the present day as two women struggle with what it means – and what it costs – to face the truth. 

Why I chose to read this book
In an attempt to broaden my genre range, I picked up this book, which I had seen featured as a bestseller in a few different stores. I figured I’d give it a try and see for myself why it’s so popular.

Thoughts & Opinions

The beginning of this book was almost unbearable to read. It made me cringe heavily, I couldn’t believe this type of casual writing made its way into a book. I felt like I was reading a trashy celebrity gossip website – which, don’t get me wrong, I enjoy reading frivolous entertainment from time to time – but it’s not what I expect to read in a published work. It made me believe that this book was for celebrity worshipers and it felt very superficial. The main character, Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo, is introduced by way of online commentary from celebrity-obsessed fans, fawning over her looks, specifically her eyebrows. Honestly, I almost abandoned the book right then and there. But I held on to the hope that once the chapters narrated by Evelyn would begin, it would get more interesting. I’m so happy I continued reading because it turned out I was right. The book started to get captivating when Evelyn began narrating her tumultuous life journey, for her memoir. And before I knew it, I was already halfway through the book.

Evelyn hand picks the author of her memoir, Monique Grant, a seemingly obscure journalist. Monique reluctantly agrees, as the heavy task carries risks in her own life. One does wonder why Monique was chosen, and the connection between the two women is revealed at the end. It’s a tragically sad connection and one I didn’t pick up on throughout the book, so the author did an admirable job in keeping it a mystery until the very end. 

I wasn’t completely sold on Monique’s character. I would like to think that a journalist in her mid-thirties would have a bit more self-assurance. I understand that for the purpose of the story, the character needed to be in that age range however the way she carries herself, and her thought process made me think of someone just starting out in life, in their early twenties. What bothered me the most was her interactions with Evelyn, her interview style felt amateurish at times – even immature. 

Evelyn has led a remarkable life and she courageously shares the most intimate details for the world to discover. Like many young girls, sadly, she used her body and sexuality to make a name for herself in Hollywood. If you are a young lady, reading or about to read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, please know that you do not need to use your body to advance in your career. Or for anything, really. Use your mind, use your words, use your brain. Do not think for one second that you need to offer up your body. Evelyn bravely admits that she knew what she was doing and was simply opportunistic. Yet, I can’t help but wonder if she was rather a victim of dire circumstances.

In this novel, you’ll quickly learn about the dark side of Hollywood; it’s all about image, money, power, and sex. The message is clear: hide who you truly are and give the public what they want. Studios have all the power in determining your worth, based on how much money you can make them, which in turn can create a toxic competitive environment for actors and actresses. Women especially did not have it easy. Evelyn remains strong and ruthless, and does whatever it takes to stay at the top.