book reviews the seven husbands of evelyn hugo

• ADMIN AREA MY BOOKSHELF MY DASHBOARD MY PROFILE SIGN OUT SIGN IN

Awards & Accolades

Our Verdict

Google Rating

New York Times Bestseller

IndieBound Bestseller

THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO

by Taylor Jenkins Reid ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 6, 2017

Reid's heroine reveals her darkest secrets as if she were wiping off makeup at the end of the night—a celebration of human...

An aging starlet with seven marriages behind her generously offers the rights to her memoir to an inexperienced writer—at a heartbreaking cost.

Monique Grant is stunned when Hollywood legend Evelyn Hugo grants an exclusive interview to her over more seasoned journalists, but when she’s also chosen to publish Evelyn’s final confessions after her death, she learns that the 79-year-old actress has enough life experience for them both. Growing up poor in Hell’s Kitchen, young Evelyn Herrera trades her virginity for a ride to Hollywood, changes her name, and climbs the rungs of the entertainment-industry ladder one husband at a time until she hits Oscar gold. To write her off as being calculating and fickle would leave out the difficulty of being a woman, especially a woman of color, trying to get by in the late 1950s without a man’s blessing. Evelyn plays up her bombshell figure and hides her Cuban roots by dying her hair blonde—the first of many lies she’ll have to tell over the course of her life to prove to the world that she deserves her place in the spotlight. She’s unapologetically ambitious but not without remorse. Which of her seven husbands was her true love? Why did she choose Monique to tell her story? Evelyn recounts her failures and triumphs in chronological order, one husband at a time, with a few breaks for Monique to report back to her editor. The celebrity tell-all style is a departure from Reid’s ( One True Loves , 2016, etc.) previous books, but Evelyn Hugo is a character who can demand top billing. When asked if it bothers her that “all anyone talks about when they talk about you are the seven husbands of Evelyn Hugo,” she says no: “Because they are just husbands. I am Evelyn Hugo.”

Pub Date: June 6, 2017

ISBN: 978-1-5011-3923-9

Page Count: 400

Publisher: Atria

Review Posted Online: April 3, 2017

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 2017

ROMANCE | FAMILY LIFE & FRIENDSHIP | CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE | GENERAL ROMANCE

Share your opinion of this book

More by Taylor Jenkins Reid

BOOK REVIEW

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

More About This Book

BOOK TO SCREEN

SEEN & HEARD

IT ENDS WITH US

by Colleen Hoover ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 2, 2016

Packed with riveting drama and painful truths, this book powerfully illustrates the devastation of abuse—and the strength of...

Hoover’s ( November 9 , 2015, etc.) latest tackles the difficult subject of domestic violence with romantic tenderness and emotional heft.

At first glance, the couple is edgy but cute: Lily Bloom runs a flower shop for people who hate flowers; Ryle Kincaid is a surgeon who says he never wants to get married or have kids. They meet on a rooftop in Boston on the night Ryle loses a patient and Lily attends her abusive father’s funeral. The provocative opening takes a dark turn when Lily receives a warning about Ryle’s intentions from his sister, who becomes Lily’s employee and close friend. Lily swears she’ll never end up in another abusive home, but when Ryle starts to show all the same warning signs that her mother ignored, Lily learns just how hard it is to say goodbye. When Ryle is not in the throes of a jealous rage, his redeeming qualities return, and Lily can justify his behavior: “I think we needed what happened on the stairwell to happen so that I would know his past and we’d be able to work on it together,” she tells herself. Lily marries Ryle hoping the good will outweigh the bad, and the mother-daughter dynamics evolve beautifully as Lily reflects on her childhood with fresh eyes. Diary entries fancifully addressed to TV host Ellen DeGeneres serve as flashbacks to Lily’s teenage years, when she met her first love, Atlas Corrigan, a homeless boy she found squatting in a neighbor’s house. When Atlas turns up in Boston, now a successful chef, he begs Lily to leave Ryle. Despite the better option right in front of her, an unexpected complication forces Lily to cut ties with Atlas, confront Ryle, and try to end the cycle of abuse before it’s too late. The relationships are portrayed with compassion and honesty, and the author’s note at the end that explains Hoover’s personal connection to the subject matter is a must-read.

Pub Date: Aug. 2, 2016

ISBN: 978-1-5011-1036-8

Page Count: 320

Review Posted Online: May 30, 2016

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 2016

GENERAL ROMANCE | ROMANCE | CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

More by Colleen Hoover

by Colleen Hoover

THE FRIEND ZONE

by Abby Jimenez ‧ RELEASE DATE: July 9, 2019

An excellent debut that combines wit, humor, and emotional intensity.

A woman refuses to be with her soul mate, but life intervenes, making her choice harder and more heartbreaking.

Josh meets Kristen with a bang, literally, when she slams on her brakes and he runs into her. There's minimal damage, so she disappears. Minutes later they discover that their best friends are engaged to each other and they were slated to meet that day at the fire station where Brandon and Josh work. Josh is immediately smitten, but Kristen has a boyfriend, Tyler, who’s deployed overseas. Counting down the days until he gets home for good, Kristen adamantly puts Josh in the friend zone, refusing to acknowledge their growing closeness and her spiking attraction. Then Tyler reenlists, effectively breaking up with her. Kristen and Josh sleep together, but she slams the door on his hope for a real relationship, telling him it will never be more than a friends-with-benefits situation. Josh thinks Kristen is mourning the end of her relationship with Tyler, but really, Kristen realizes Josh is her perfect match. Unfortunately she also knows Josh wants children, which would be nearly impossible for them due to her malfunctioning reproductive system. The two reach a painful impasse, but when tragedy strikes, they find themselves reevaluating their relationship. Josh knows he’ll never be happy without Kristen, but he’ll have to think outside the box to convince her to take a chance on them. Jimenez tackles a myriad of issues in her debut and hits each one with depth and sensitivity. Kristen’s take-no-prisoners attitude is smart and sassy and perfectly balanced by Josh’s easygoing resourcefulness, though at times her lack of transparency while jerking him around makes her seem more immature than self-sacrificing .

Pub Date: July 9, 2019

ISBN: 978-1-5387-1560-4

Page Count: 352

Publisher: Forever

Review Posted Online: April 27, 2019

Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 15, 2019

More by Abby Jimenez

by Abby Jimenez

• Discover Books Fiction Thriller & Suspense Mystery & Detective Romance Science Fiction & Fantasy Nonfiction Biography & Memoir Teens & Young Adult Children's
• News & Features Bestsellers Book Lists Profiles Perspectives Awards Seen & Heard Book to Screen Kirkus TV videos In the News
• Kirkus Prize Winners & Finalists About the Kirkus Prize Kirkus Prize Judges
• Magazine Current Issue All Issues Manage My Subscription Subscribe
• Writers’ Center Hire a Professional Book Editor Get Your Book Reviewed Advertise Your Book Launch a Pro Connect Author Page Learn About The Book Industry
• More Kirkus Diversity Collections Kirkus Pro Connect My Account/Login
• About Kirkus History Our Team Contest FAQ Press Center Info For Publishers
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Reprints, Permission & Excerpting Policy

© Copyright 2024 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Popular in this Genre

Hey there, book lover.

We’re glad you found a book that interests you!

Please select an existing bookshelf

Create a new bookshelf.

We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!

Please sign up to continue.

It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!

Already have an account? Log in.

Trouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.

Almost there!

• Industry Professional

Welcome Back!

Sign in using your Kirkus account

Contact us: 1-800-316-9361 or email [email protected].

Don’t fret. We’ll find you.

Magazine Subscribers ( How to Find Your Reader Number )

If You’ve Purchased Author Services

Don’t have an account yet? Sign Up.

The Internet can't stop talking about 'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo,' and I can't either. Here's why the book is getting so much hype.

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

• " The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo " is a bestselling historical fiction romance book.
• Despite being published in 2017, it's now very popular on TikTok , Instagram, and bestseller lists.
• I've read it twice and it's one of the books I recommend the most.

I first read " The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo " in 2019, when it landed in my lap as a result of a holiday book swap with one of my best friends, accompanied by a promise that I wouldn't be able to put it down. 

I opened the book one Saturday morning and proceeded to shirk all of my responsibilities until the last page, just as I did this past weekend when I had the absolute joy of rereading it again. 

Though it was published nearly five years ago, "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" continues to pique readers' interests as it circulates BookTok , Bookstagram, and Goodreads. This book was nominated for two "book of the year" awards in 2017, but thanks to its social media circulation, most of its popularity is more recent. It was the #3 most read book amongst Goodreads reviewers last year and is still ranking at the top of Amazon's bestseller list .

I've had the pleasure of reading "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" twice and it proudly graces my "Best Books of All Time" shelf. Here's why it's one of the novels I most frequently recommend.

(Warning: Light spoilers ahead.)

Learn more about how Insider Reviews reviews and researches books.

1. It reads like a gripping, nonfiction Hollywood exposé.

This story is about renowned Hollywood actress Evelyn Hugo who, after decades of blockbuster hits, is now 79 and ready to give an exclusive interview after years of dodging the press. But the only one granted access is a little-known journalist named Monique Grant. Though she can't understand why she's been chosen, Monique goes to Evelyn's home and finds out Evelyn doesn't just want to do an interview — she wants to lay out every piece of her truth for Monique to write and sell her biography.

Though Evelyn won't answer why she picked Monique to do the job, Monique agrees and Evelyn's story begins to unfold from her calculated beginnings in Hollywood to the millions she enjoys in the present, each section of her life titled by each of her seven husbands and her reasons for marrying (and divorcing) them. 

As you traverse all the gritty details of Evelyn's life, it feels like you're being allowed exclusive access to something you shouldn't be allowed to see. This book reads like a shocking Hollywood exposé and I still can't believe the characters and events aren't real. 

2. Taylor Jenkins Reid's writing style is incredibly immersive.

To me, the mark of a great book is making you completely forget that you're reading in the first place, and that's exactly what "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" does to me. 

It's an immediately captivating book due, in part, to its story — but mostly because of Taylor Jenkins Reid's writing. I've had the pleasure of reading a few more of her books so when you inevitably find yourself in love with this book as I am, you can grab "Daisy Jones & the Six" and "Malibu Rising" next. 

Each of her three recent novels is about a movie or rock star, and with each one, I found myself compelled to look up the films, performances, and Wikipedia pages of those referenced, just to be fooled time and time again. 

I can't explain exactly how she does it, but Taylor Jenkins Reid's writing is simply and undeniably visceral. Her stories unfold seamlessly, her characters are complicated and realistically flawed, and I happily find myself lost in the pages until the very end of the book. 

3. It's a stunning and honest queer historical romance. 

Early on in their meetings, Monique asks Evelyn about the love of her life, and while Evelyn's husbands and affairs made headlines time and time again, the novel unravels the tight spool of her life until this question is finally answered. 

Thanks to online descriptions and tags, it's no secret that this is a queer romance , as Evelyn is finally ready to come out as bisexual in her biography. Evelyn's story is complicated — she's fully aware of the dangers queer people face in the '50s, '60s, and beyond, even with the hope of change brought about by the Stonewall riots and Elton John's confession. 

This made the story even more real and hard-hitting. Evelyn was proudly bisexual and didn't want to be mistaken as a lesbian or a curious straight woman, but also knew she could never hold a woman's hand on the red carpet without ruining her career and the lives of those closest to her. "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" is a story of scandal and ambition, but it's also that of identity, love, and the complexity of wanting to be true to yourself in a world that would chastise you for it. 

The bottom line 

I was just as captivated by Taylor Jenkin Reid's writing the second time as I was the first. Evelyn Hugo's story is one of unabashed ambition, many different kinds of love, and the power of owning your truth. 

"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" is still one of the best books I've ever read and one that I regularly recommend to my friends. Deeply enthralling, slightly devastating, and compulsively unputdownable, this is the perfect read for anyone looking to get lost in an incredible book. 

• Main content

The Lit Bitch

Anne Mendez, Book Reviewer

Review: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This book on been on my radar for YEARS. I have had a copy on my shelf and that stunning green dress just calls to me on the cover. But yet I haven’t picked it up. Despite the rave reviews and all the buzz. I don’t really know why other than it sounded a little heavy but I found myself looking at it and then putting it back on my shelf. Especially the last couple of years, I have really leaned more toward light fluffy reading and just wasn’t ready for something more serious.

Then I found myself reading on my Kindle one night only to discover that I was on a ‘hot streak’ with my reading. This summer Amazon has been doing like a summer reading challenge for Kindle readers and I found that I had reached silver status. I had more challenges to unlock which included reading a ‘light summer reading’ book. It gave a list of books and this one was at the top. And right then and there I was like YES the time has come to read this one finally!

It ranked as a top beach/summer read and I was fully ready to indulge in this one. I downloaded it (never mind I had a copy on my shelf!) and dove right on in. I quickly realized this book wasn’t going to be the light and easy reading I was hoping for but I decided to read it anyway since I love the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood and I was intrigued by the premise of the book. It opens with this nobody writer who is approached by this mega star at the end of her life, to write a multimillion dollar biography. But what no one understands—-is why Monique selected to be the writer? That’s what hooked me.

Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie 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 for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?

Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.

Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave 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. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story near its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways. ( summary from Goodreads)

I literally can’t decide how I feel about this book. On one hand, I didn’t like Evelyn at all—-like not even a little. But there was something about her that I admired which I guess is the hallmark of a great character and probably the whole point to her character. She was ruthless and frank in ways that I could only dream of being. Her insight and cunning were a thrill to read. But I just didn’t like her character at all. I never felt bad for her and I couldn’t stand that she just basically used everyone she met. I had a really hard time with her over all. I liked the twist on her husbands though. Without giving too much away there is one very big reason she has seven husbands, they hide her one true love. I thought this main love story was compelling, modern, and interesting. I loved reading about it even if I never loved the two characters. Yes I didn’t care for the true love either. I found the true love equally as unlikeable and manipulative. But yet I couldn’t help but keep reading.

This book is full of tragedy for so many people. It was heartbreaking to read, especially toward the end. Even if I didn’t love the characters, their various losses still were impactful to readers which was so odd for me. I haven’t read a book where I didn’t like a single character but yet felt emotional for the narrative. It was a very weird book in that regard but yet a good one. Personally I felt zero connection with Monique. She felt one dimensional to me and I didn’t care for her back story with her husband etc. I understood that she grew from her friendship with Evelyn and how Evelyn changed her and gave her strength but in general the story was strong enough without Monique being part of the story. I get that she was the catalyst for the novel and I appreciated how ultimately their narratives meshed but in many ways I think there could have been an alternative solution or connection between their stories. Monique felt just bland for me and I would have liked her story to be more of a thing in this book. It would have been longer but I think it would have helped readers feel a connection to the ‘innocent’ in this book.

I have no idea what to rate this book. I think I am going to go with three stars. It was well written and interesting with a modern and unique love story, but there was something that I didn’t love about this. Maybe it was the characters, maybe it was that it was too emotional for when I thought it was going to be more ‘beach read’ material which for me means light. I don’t know I liked it and want to read more by this author, I loved the Hollywood business parts and the industry issues but in the end I was expecting something entirely different than what I got. I do think that people should read this book though. It’s unique and stands out for it’s unlikeable characters but yet has a moving plot so it’s memorable and enjoyable based on that. I wish I could give it a higher rating and maybe in reflection I will. I just ultimately don’t know what to rate this one as it was great but I also didn’t like the characters so.I ended up going with a split down the middle.

Book Info and Rating

Format: 389 pages hardcover

Published: June 13 2017 by Atria Books

ISBN 9781501139239

Review copy provided by personal collection. All opinions are my own and in no way influenced.

Rating: 3 stars

Genre: Historical fiction

WHERE TO BUY (AFFILIATE LINKS)

Share this:.

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Charming comments go here! Cancel reply

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

Common Sense Media

Movie & TV reviews for parents

• For Parents
• For Educators
• Our Work and Impact

Or browse by category:

• Get the app
• Movie Reviews
• Best Movie Lists
• Best Movies on Netflix, Disney+, and More

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

• Best TV Lists
• Best TV Shows on Netflix, Disney+, and More
• Common Sense Selections for TV
• Video Reviews of TV Shows

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

• Book Reviews
• Best Book Lists
• Common Sense Selections for Books

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

• Game Reviews
• Best Game Lists

Common Sense Selections for Games

• Video Reviews of Games

Nintendo Switch Games for Family Fun

• Podcast Reviews
• Best Podcast Lists

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

• App Reviews
• Best App Lists

Social Networking for Teens

Gun-Free Action Game Apps

Reviews for AI Apps and Tools

• YouTube Channel Reviews
• YouTube Kids Channels by Topic

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube Kids

YouTube Kids Channels for Gamers

• Preschoolers (2-4)
• Little Kids (5-7)
• Big Kids (8-9)
• Pre-Teens (10-12)
• Teens (13+)
• Screen Time
• Social Media
• Online Safety
• Identity and Community

Real-Life Heroes on YouTube for Tweens and Teens

• Family Tech Planners
• Digital Skills
• All Articles
• Latino Culture
• Black Voices
• Asian Stories
• Native Narratives
• LGBTQ+ Pride
• Best of Diverse Representation List

Celebrating Black History Month

Movies and TV Shows with Arab Leads

Celebrate Hip-Hop's 50th Anniversary

The seven husbands of evelyn hugo, common sense media reviewers.

Absorbing, glamorous story looks at identity and love.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Readers will learn about life in New York and Los

There are many different types of love, and they'r

Most characters have both strengths and weaknesses

Monique's father is Black and her mother is White.

Evelyn's father was physically abusive and she was

Kissing, caressing, manual stimulation, genital se

"Bulls--t," "chickens--t," "f--k," "f--kup," "holy

Lucite, Pellegrino, NBC, and Jack-in-the-Box.

Several characters drink alcohol excessively; some

Parents need to know that The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a fictional tell-all story about a woman who was one of Hollywood's biggest stars for decades, starting in the late 1950s. It wasn't marketed to teens when it was released but has enjoyed new popularity, thanks to book…

Educational Value

Readers will learn about life in New York and Los Angeles from the late 1940s to the 2010s, and how laws that suppressed queerness and LGBTQ+ rights affected people.

Positive Messages

There are many different types of love, and they're all meaningful and worth fighting to preserve. Real intimacy isn't about sex, it's about being able to bare your soul to someone who accepts you as you are. Life is made up of dualities: Things can be true and false; people can be good and bad; no one is only a victim or a victimizer, everyone is somewhere in between. Messages about body type are all positive about thinness only. The ideal body is "huge boobs on a slim frame," and characters who are meant to be seen positively are almost always mentioned being lean or slim. Monique doesn't like that she was a fat baby, and is happy when she realizes she lost a little weight. People with terminal illness and nothing left to endure but suffering until the end should be able to choose when and how to die.

Positive Role Models

Most characters have both strengths and weaknesses. Monique has a lot of empathy and is a positive model of a biracial woman in a high-powered Manhattan journalism career. Evelyn models perseverance in her determination to make it big in Hollywood, although she does both good and bad things to make it happen. Both Evelyn and Monique model strong communication skills as Evelyn tells her life story and Monique draws lessons for her own life from Evelyn.

Diverse Representations

Monique's father is Black and her mother is White. Evelyn's parents were Cuban. Most other characters read as White. A Black woman holds an executive position of power at a prestigious New York magazine. All important characters are thin. Evelyn is bisexual, and her inner circle includes a gay man and a lesbian lover. A minor character is Asian American with straight, "jet-black" hair. A character has an abortion and does not regret it.

Did we miss something on diversity? Suggest an update.

Violence & Scariness

Evelyn's father was physically abusive and she was afraid he might assault her sexually as well. One of her husbands was also physically abusive, with several slaps described and a push down a partial flight of stairs. Extensive, bloody wounds after a car crash are described briefly.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Kissing, caressing, manual stimulation, genital sex, and orgasm are described briefly and vaguely. At 13, Evelyn exchanged sexual favors like taking her top off and kissing for items from a variety store. A 14-year-old is found in bed with two other people.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

"Bulls--t," "chickens--t," "f--k," "f--kup," "holy s--t," "s--t," "t-ts," "hate-f--king," "ass," "a--hole," "bitch," "boobs," "butt," "crap," "goddammit," "goddamn," "hell," "screwing," "slut," "whore," and "dyke." Exclamatory use of "Jesus" and "Jesus Christ."

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Products & Purchases

Drinking, drugs & smoking.

Several characters drink alcohol excessively; some work to stop or moderate their drinking, a few minor characters don't. Older teens who are legal adults drink alcohol, sometimes to excess, and some drunken behavior is shown. A drunk driver dies and kills a passenger after crashing into a tree. A newspaper implies that a 14-year-old drinks and does cocaine in nightclubs. Several characters smoke cigarettes in a time period when it was more common and many dangers were less well known. One dies of complications from emphysema.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a fictional tell-all story about a woman who was one of Hollywood's biggest stars for decades, starting in the late 1950s. It wasn't marketed to teens when it was released but has enjoyed new popularity, thanks to book influencers on TikTok . Teen appeal comes from the title character's romance and early life climbing her way to the top when she was in her late teens and early 20s. There's some kissing, caressing, manual stimulation, genital sex, and orgasm that are vaguely described and don't mention sensitive body parts. Glamorous characters in Hollywood's golden age drink heavily, some struggle to stop, and one dies and kills a passenger in a drunk-driving car crash. There's also historically accurate smoking, and spoiler alert: An important character dies after a long battle with emphysema. An abusive father is hinted at, and being slapped and pushed down some stairs by a physically abusive husband are described. Strong language includes variations of "s--t" and "f--k," "t-ts," and "dyke." A character has an abortion and does not regret it. Parental loss, racial and sexual identity, and physician-assisted suicide are a few of the important themes the novel explores.

Where to Read

Community reviews.

• Parents say
• Kids say (3)

There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What's the Story?

In THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO, Monique is a writer at a prestigious Manhattan glossy magazine, but her career is stalled and she's not happy with her assignments. So when Hollywood living legend Evelyn Hugo contacts the magazine to offer an exclusive article to Monique, and only Monique, needless to say she and her editor are stunned, but jump at the chance. As Evelyn opens up to Monique about her life and loves, she also hints that she's not quite telling the whole story, but when she does, it will change Monique forever.

Is It Any Good?

This is an absorbing story that reads like a real Hollywood tell-all autobiography. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo offers intriguing looks into the golden age of Hollywood as well as the high-powered world of international magazine publishing. Taylor Jenkins Reid has given Evelyn and Monique authentic, clear voices, and their dark hints about secrets yet untold keep the pages turning. Their conversations thoughtfully explore issues like racial and sexual identity, different kinds of love, loss, betrayal, forgiveness, and more, without being heavy handed. Having both narrators speak in the first person might create some confusion about each of their backgrounds, but things eventually clear up. Though not intended for teens, there's not anything too graphic for older teens, and much to chew on for those curious about what adventures adulthood may hold.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about the drinking in The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. Is it glamorized, or realistic? What are the consequences?

What about the strong language? Is it realistic? Is it a big deal?

How have society's attitudes and laws about queerness changed since the 1950s, or have they? How did the attitudes at the time affect Evelyn, Harry, and Celia?

Evelyn and Monique model strong communication skills as their interviews unravel Evelyn's life, loves, and secrets. How does their honesty and openness help them process what gets revealed?

Evelyn showed great perseverance in achieving success in her career, even if she did make some morally gray decisions at times. What does Monique take from Evelyn's journey to apply to her own career and life? What does this story make you think about when it comes to facing obstacles?

Book Details

• Author : Taylor Jenkins Reid
• Genre : Historical Fiction
• Topics : Friendship , Great Boy Role Models , Great Girl Role Models , History
• Character Strengths : Communication , Empathy , Perseverance
• Book type : Fiction
• Publisher : Atria
• Publication date : June 13, 2017
• Publisher's recommended age(s) : 18 - 18
• Number of pages : 400
• Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
• Last updated : April 8, 2024

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

Our editors recommend.

Hello, Goodbye, and Everything In Between

The Henna Wars

I Was Born for This

Lessons in Chemistry

Teen romance novels, teen books trending on #booktok, related topics.

• Communication
• Perseverance
• Great Boy Role Models
• Great Girl Role Models

Want suggestions based on your streaming services? Get personalized recommendations

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

• Advertising
• Write For Us
• Book Reviews

Book Review: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo // Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a masterpiece, and since finishing it I have been begging everyone I know to read it also. Evelyn Hugo, a fictional Marilyn Monroe type figure, enlists journalist Monique to write her memoir; a tell-all, documenting the entirety of her life and acting career, including the story behind her seven husbands. The good, the bad, and the ugly are uncovered, weaving together to create a compelling narrative that tugs at the heartstrings.

The most striking thing about this book is how real Evelyn Hugo feels to the reader. As a character, she is immaculately fleshed out and developed without a single gap or fault, with very human feelings and thoughts that are often not addressed fully in other books. Every relationship, both romantic and platonic that Hugo reflects upon is full of personality and charm, even when dark themes are discussed and exhibited. Most importantly though, Evelyn Hugo is flawed. Her relationships and attitudes towards people demonstrate that she is not the embodiment of perfection that Hollywood starlets are perceived to be. There are multiple points when the reader disapproves of Hugo’s choices or thoughts, a refreshing feeling when many books evoke unconditional support for the character being followed. She is neither a protagonist nor an antagonist, filling both roles at interchanging moments that make Hugo feel even more human and relatable.

The novel also deals with dark and important themes without making them seem as if they were thrown in for the sake of it. Very real issues facing women both generally and within the context of Hollywood stardom are discussed in depth, offering a darker emotional perspective to the story. Sexual exploitation within the industry for career progression forms a harrowing backstory to Hugo’s rise to fame, an issue that has obviously transcended further than the time in which the book is set, and domestic violence behind the scenes offers more reflection on issues facing women both then and now. The most interwoven theme relating to Hugo’s life is sexuality, discussing the restrictions and concealment that queer women, especially in the public eye, had to endure.

The story of Monique Grant, the journalist recruited by Hugo to write for her, is equally as compelling. Although the reader is often taken out of Hugo’s story back to the present day to follow Grant, there is no moment where the intensity and emotional impact falters as a result. The extended question as to why Grant was specifically chosen for the job of writing for Hugo is a continued undercurrent with a moment of realisation that is impossible to predict, leaving readers hooked right until the final pages.

Without a doubt, this is my favourite book of all time now. I have never had such a big emotional reaction to a work of literature, and I highly doubt another book will be able to come close for a long time. I finished this book wishing for more literature on Evelyn Hugo and wanting to watch her films, which unfortunately do not exist. A reread is definitely on the horizon for me, and I have not been able to stop thinking about it since closing this gem.

Words by Sam Hewitson

Want more Books content from The Indiependent? Click here

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Book Review: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This post may contains affiliate links. If you click and buy we may make a commission, at no additional charge to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more details.

“I’m under absolutely no obligation to make sense to you.” ― Taylor Jenkins Reid, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Yes, it is difficult to make sense of Evelyn Hugo, the ordinary woman who will do anything to enter the glamorous world of Hollywood.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a New York Times Bestselling book. This extremely hyped novel in the book community has faced appreciation as well as criticism.

I have seen readers having mixed feelings about the book and decided to join them by finally writing this review. As an avid reader, I love to read and share my opinions about books with other bibliophiles.

My honest confession: I picked this book due to the hype it was creating everywhere. If you are wondering whether I liked it or not, the answer lies below in my book review.

Oh, and I have also added a brief description of the book so you can have an overall idea of what it is about before diving into the evaluation.

Are you intrigued? Have a look at my review of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo!

Overview of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Evelyn Hugo is a famous movie icon who has gained massive fandom over the years. But the road she had to take to reach the final destination was bumpy.

Evelyn is an actress who was always at the top of the controversial list, with her glamorous life being the talk of the town.

She is best known for her seven marriages throughout her life, one after another! (Woah, marrying seven people sounds like a daunting task)

Now, the 79-year-old Evelyn is ready to reveal all of her life’s big secrets and scandals, both good and bad, to the world.

Another character in the story is Monique Grant, a magazine reporter trying to survive her mundane life. With her professional career facing a downtrend and her marriage life in jeopardy, she was not ready for the unexpected news that would change her life.

Evelyn wants Monique to write a book on her life, a biography of the actress. But why did she choose Monique, the unknown woman who doesn’t have any connection with her? Or maybe she has?

But what relation does Monique have with Evelyn, or does Evelyn have some personal motive behind picking Monique?

The book takes the readers on a ride where Evelyn unfolds the story of her ambitious, happening, ruthless life filled with friendships , love , grief, hardships, and betrayal. The tale ends with a shocking revelation!

My Review of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Overall : 4/5

I finished this book on my third try!

Yes, I tried reading it twice but stopped after the initial chapters. I do not have any specific reason behind it, but I guess it was because I was expecting it to be gripping enough to hook me from the beginning, but it wasn’t.

As I mentioned before, I picked the book because of its hype in the reading community. After seeing the praise the book was receiving, I picked it up the third time and finally completed it.

I found the name, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, very intriguing! The name does build curiosity among the readers.

When it comes to answering whether I liked the book or not, I do not have a black-and-white response for you; it was a grey area for me. I have both positive as well as negative opinions on the novel.

The story gives us a glimpse into the lives of the celebrities. As an audience, we involve ourselves so much in their lives, but what they show us might just be a publicity stunt.

Most of the time, they are going through a hard time, which we cannot decipher by seeing their smiles on the red carpet. The book tells us that celebrity life is not always glamorous; it has its hidden dark secrets.

The book is definitely well-written, and Taylor has done a great job with Evelyn’s character. But in doing so, she didn’t do justice to the other characters who could have made a good impact on the story.

Harry (Evelyn’s gay best friend) was an interesting character, but sadly, he was not given a personal POV.

Monique’s character felt so unnecessary! No impact at all! The story would have still turned out well without her presence. And Celia, let me be honest, she was wronged throughout! I feel bad for her.

Back to Evelyn, she was a character who is highly dislikable but admirable at the same time. It’s like if you meet someone like her in real life, you will surely hate her, but in the book, knowing her personal POV, thoughts, opinions, and hardships made her worthy of admiration.

All her seven marriages are described separately, divided into sections, which kept my interest intact. Evelyn’s determination to achieve her goal was appreciatable, but her ways of using and manipulating people on the journey were not justifiable.

But I liked the character development of Evelyn and how her perspective toward various matters changed throughout her life.

I didn’t predict the ending at all. A few people might have, but I wasn’t able to speculate. Overall, it was a good read, not an extraordinary book, but not bad as well.

It is a bit overhyped, though!

I love to review books after reading them; it’s a great way to share your personal views about the book and help others analyze whether they should pick it or not.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a good book to read. I hope my review was helpful enough for you to make your decision.

However, if you are still doubtful, just go for it; either you will end up reading it or leave it halfway, no big deal.

Have you already read this book? Share your views in the comments below!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Bookreporter
• ReadingGroupGuides
• AuthorsOnTheWeb

The Book Report Network

Sign up for our newsletters!

Regular Features

Author spotlights, "bookreporter talks to" videos & podcasts, "bookaccino live: a lively talk about books", favorite monthly lists & picks, seasonal features, book festivals, sports features, bookshelves.

• Coming Soon

Newsletters

• Weekly Update
• On Sale This Week
• Summer Reading
• Spring Preview
• Winter Reading
• Holiday Cheer
• Fall Preview

Word of Mouth

Submitting a book for review, write the editor, you are here:, the seven husbands of evelyn hugo.

The personal lives and relationships of celebrities are of great interest to many people these days. From the glossies to tabloids, television to the web, we can access the rumors and breakups and drama --- “drama”? --- whenever we want. Taylor Jenkins Reid’s new novel, THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO, explores that obsession from the point of view of a struggling journalist and the world-famous actress who is giving the journalist her story.

Monique Grant works for Vivant magazine, and she’s not exactly excelling in her position as a staff writer --- or in her life, for that matter. Her husband of a year has recently moved to San Francisco, she’s broke, and though she wants to do well at the magazine, she’s a little stuck. So when Frankie, her editor, calls her into her office to assign her a career-making exclusive, Monique is stunned. The actress Evelyn Hugo, who has been in Hollywood since the 1950s, has specifically requested Monique to write a cover story on her after Evelyn announces she’s putting some of her most famous dresses up for charity auction. Frankie is hesitant to give this to Monique, but Evelyn has been very specific --- it’s Monique or no story for Vivant , which the magazine desperately needs.

"The writing is crisp and easy, and I can honestly say that this is a great beach read, because I read a good portion of it while sitting on a Florida beach."

So Monique heads to Evelyn’s Upper East Side apartment for the exclusive, infinitely curious about why it had to be her, and how Evelyn even knows who she is. Her life is falling apart, and this assignment is exactly what she needs to try and pull it back together. But things aren’t exactly as they seem. Upon arrival and meeting the 79-year-old icon, Evelyn tells Monique she does not intend to do a story for Vivant and wants Monique to write her biography. The caveat is that Monique is not allowed to sell or publish the book until after Evelyn dies. Evelyn is in perfect health, so this is a big risk. But Monique decides to do it and eventually uses her position to get Evelyn to agree to a cover for the magazine. And with that, Evelyn begins to tell her story.

Evelyn Hugo, nee Evelyn Herrera, is the daughter of Cuban immigrants and was born in Hell’s Kitchen in the late 1930s. Her mother dies of pneumonia when she is 11, her father is an abusive man, and Evelyn’s goal after the death of her mother is to get out of Hell’s Kitchen and away from her father. She develops early, and after some time of unwanted sexual attention and encounters from men, she learns she can use her sexuality to get what she wants. When a friend tells her of a man who is moving to Hollywood to become a grip in the pictures, a 14-year-old Evelyn presents herself as 16 and marries her first husband, thus gaining a ticket to Hollywood. A few years later, she has a deal with Sunset Pictures, a remade identity, blonde hair and a divorce.

But the real story is who the love of Evelyn’s life is. It turns out not to be any of her husbands, and though the identity of her love is revealed relatively early in the book, I will refrain from giving too much away. THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO is much more than it appears on the surface. It reveals how calculated so much of Evelyn’s life was --- and that she was the one doing the calculating to protect her career and the people she loves --- and begs the question: How much of what we see in the media regarding the lives of celebrities is a manipulation? Evelyn, it turns out, is much more than a pretty face and a pair of breasts, which is what gets her the most attention. The book also takes a deep look at how homosexuality was viewed through the mid-century, from mentions of Rock Hudson to the Stonewall Riots, and how scandalous and dangerous it was to be openly gay.

There are a lot of layers in THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO. At nearly 400 pages the novel reads compellingly but drags toward the end. Reid does a wonderful job of distinguishing the voices of her two main characters. The writing is crisp and easy, and I can honestly say that this is a great beach read, because I read a good portion of it while sitting on a Florida beach.

Reviewed by Sarah Jackman on June 16, 2017

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

• Publication Date: May 29, 2018
• Genres: Fiction
• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Washington Square Press
• ISBN-10: 1501161938
• ISBN-13: 9781501161933

Taylor Jenkins Reid

• Daisy Jones & The Six

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

• One True Loves
• Maybe in Another Life
• Forever, Interrupted

Buy The Book

• Apple Books
• Barnes & Noble
• Diesel (signed copies)

A New York Times Bestseller

Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life.

When she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one in the journalism community is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now? Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband, David, has left her, and her career has stagnated. Regardless of why Evelyn has chosen her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.

Summoned to Evelyn’s Upper East Side apartment, Monique listens as Evelyn unfurls her story: from making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the late 80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way. As Evelyn’s life unfolds—revealing a ruthless ambition, an unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love—Monique begins to feel a very a real connection to the actress. But as Evelyn’s story catches up with the present, 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 fascinating journey through the splendor of Old Hollywood into the harsh realities of the present day as two women struggle with what it means—and what it takes—to face the truth.

Audio Excerpt

Reviews & praise.

A spellbinding novel about love, glamour and the price of fame. Emily Giffin, New York Times bestselling author of First Comes Love

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is the total package: the very best of Classic Hollywood intrigue, a delicious twist, and incisive commentary on the wages of stardom, especially for women. Anne Helen Petersen, BuzzFeed culture writer and author of Scandals of Classic Hollywood

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo has big, juicy secrets at its heart—not just about the surprising identity of movie star Evelyn Hugo's true love, but of the lengths she has gone to protect that mysterious lover. Brimming with heartache, betrayal, and a lifetime of Hollywood gossip, this raucous novel will seduce you even as it leaves you wanting more. Miranda Beverly-Whittemore, New York Times bestselling author of Bittersweet and June

A glamorous romp through Hollywood in its heyday, Taylor Jenkins Reid’s latest offers up several unexpected twists and a dazzling, ambitious movie star who will break your heart. Fiona Davis, author of The Dollhouse

In her latest mesmerizing tale, Reid transports readers back to Hollywood’s heyday with a heroine in the likes of — but more intriguing than — Elizabeth Taylor, Zsa Zsa Gabor and Katherine Hepburn. Yes, Evelyn Hugo is the glamorous idol you admire, but she’s also the relentless fighter you aspire to be. Her life’s story is heartbreaking, yet beautiful and will keep readers captivated until the very last page. Jamie Blynn, Us Weekly

Evelyn Hugo makes Liz Taylor seem pedestrian. Taylor Jenkins Reid has drawn a rich, emotionally complex heroine who is so real that you'll forget she only lives in the pages of a book. This is an utterly compelling dance with love and tragedy, sometimes both at once; you'll laugh with Evelyn, cry with her, ache with her, and then go back to page one and do it all over again. Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan, authors of The Royal We

More Evelyn

Love, Loss & Ambition: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo Review

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll get a commission if you decide to purchase through my links, at NO extra cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

Last updated on December 17th, 2023

In this review, we dive into The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid – an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look into the glitz and glamour of Old Hollywood and the unapologetic grit it takes to climb to the top.

Loosely based on several iconic actresses such as Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe, it’s a phenomenal story about the price of fame and the flaws of the human condition.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

GENRE: Literary fiction, Romance PUB DATE: June 13, 2017 TWs: domestic violence, homosexuality and sexual identity From the streets of Hell’s Kitchen in NYC to the red carpet in LA, Taylor Jenkins Reid takes you on an engaging and moving journey about finding the courage to chase your dreams, proving once again why she’s a remarkable storyteller.

Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie 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 for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?

Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.

Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave 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.

Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story near its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.

Evelyn Hugo

Where do I even start? Evelyn Hugo is a complicated person with an even more complex past, but that’s what makes her such a compelling character worthy of basing an entire book on.

Whether you like or hate her will depend on your ability to accept someone’s ugly truths. She’s far from perfect, but her imperfections are what make her deeply human and will leave a lasting impression on you long after you have closed the book.

Evelyn learned early in her childhood that her power was her sexuality, which she never hesitated to use to her advantage in her rise to stardom. To say that her path to fame was difficult would be an understatement.

She hurt people she loved and made sacrifices that chipped away at her own truths. But you will never find her apologizing for her ambitions. 

She shed blood, sweat, and tears to build the life she wanted for herself, and it took tremendous courage and tenacity to do that. But while her persistence is admirable, her execution wasn’t always the best. She can be cold, calculating, and manipulative.

“When you’re given an opportunity to change your life, be ready to do whatever it takes to make it happen. The world doesn’t give things, you take things.”

And her relationships aren’t the healthiest, as evidenced by her numerous husbands. But despite her flaws, she’s also quite compassionate and willing to do anything for the people she loves, often to her own detriment.

These contrasting personalities, along with her unabashed honesty, added great depth and authenticity to her character, which made for a captivating read. The author sheds light on the human experience by taking Evelyn through a lot of trauma and loss along the way, and you feel for her pain and what she has had to go through.

Was it her fault for making the decisions she did, or was it just her making the best of the circumstances that life threw her away? This is one of the many questions I walked away from this book with.

She is one of the most relatable characters in this book. Fresh off a failed marriage and going nowhere in her career, she is given the chance of a lifetime to work with Evelyn to write a tell-all book. Through her time with Evelyn, Monique learns to embody the confidence that Evelyn seems to effortlessly possess.

You get to see how Evelyn influences her to take life into her own hands, and I’m glad she was able to get what she deserved. And that’s the kind of effect a character like Evelyn has – she inspires you to want more for yourself and pushes you to go out there and get it.

Taylor Jenkins Reid has a knack for spinning convincing and compelling stories. Just when you think you know where she’s going with the story, there’s an emotional twist waiting around the corner. And this is one of the reasons why I love her books so much. 

The ending gave me such mixed feelings. I was satisfied but wanted more of Evelyn’s story. I was both happy and heartbroken. The only thing I’m sure of is that I’ll be talking about this book to anyone who will listen for the foreseeable future. 

Homosexuality

One of the main themes in this book is accepting one’s sexual identity. The author explores how the characters struggled with figuring out their truths during a time when it wasn’t safe to talk about these issues out loud.

I appreciated getting the perspective from inside the mind of someone navigating their emotions under public scrutiny and how this affected their perception of themselves and the people they loved. 

Kudos to TJR for such a great representation of the LGBTQ community. Even though the world has progressed and people are talking more about it now, it’s saddening to know that the issues seen in this book still exist in some places.

Old Hollywood

The message portrayed about Hollywood in this book reminds me of a quote I read in Matthew Perry’s memoir – “you have to get famous to know that it’s not the answer. And nobody who is not famous will ever truly believe that.”

Through her stories, Evelyn gives a realistic and unbridled portrayal of the ugly side of fame. All the sacrifices she’s had to make and the people she had to hurt to stay relevant and be adored by the masses.

But as we often learn, it’s not always worth it in the end, and the author did a great job of demonstrating this message to her readers. 

TJR’s writing is seductive and poignant. It keeps you engaged and excited to see the story unfold. She chooses the perfect combinations of words to describe various aspects of life that you find yourself sitting back and thinking, “oh yeah, this is so true” but you never thought to express it out loud like that.

Her writing impresses you with the truth and makes you reflect. She interspersed so many nuggets of wisdom that I almost ran out of post-it notes trying to highlight them all. 

“You know the key to impulsivity is believing you are invincible. No one goes around throwing caution to the wind unless the wind is blowing their way.”

Reid’s dialogues are very intentional, especially those for Evelyn. And each chapter adds excellent dimension and value to who Evelyn is.

There are multiple formats and POVs used in this book that make for a great immersive read. She uses articles from newspapers and tabloids to compliment and progress the main story that in itself is told in a dual timeline.

Everything worked together seamlessly to make you feel like you were right in the middle of the Hollywood world.

Best Quotes

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is an absolute masterpiece filled with so much wisdom and inspiration that I couldn’t possibly fit all of its incredible quotes in the list below. 

Hence, the creation of an entire page dedicated to the best Evelyn Hugo quotes that celebrate TJR’s sensational writing and Hugo’s raw, unapologetic honesty.

• Praise is just like an addiction. the more you get it, the more of it you need just to stay even. 
• People think that intimacy is about sex. But intimacy is about truth. When you realize you can tell someone your truth, when you can show yourself to them, when you stand in front of them bare and their response is “You’re safe with me”—that’s intimacy.
• be wary of men with something to prove 

“ Don’t ignore half of me so you can fit me into a box. “

• If you are intolerable, let me be the one to tolerate you. 
• You can’t tell a single thing about a person’s true character if you both want the same thing. That’s like a dog and a cat getting along because they both want to kill the mouse .
• I think being yourself – your true, entire self – is always going to feel like you’re swimming upstream. 

From the streets of Hell’s Kitchen in NYC to the red carpet in LA, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid will take you on an engaging and moving journey about finding the courage to chase your dreams.

Taylor Jenkins Reid proves once again why she’s a remarkable storyteller, and this is one book you will not want to miss out on.  

The author is said to have based Evelyn on multiple characters:

• Elizabeth Taylor – who married 7 different men
• Ava Gardner – who revealed secrets about her past to British journalist and eventual biographer Peter Evans
• Rita Hayworth – who had a Spanish background but was convinced to change her name and appearance—effectively erasing her ethnic heritage—to be more successful in Hollywood. 

Excerpt from Vogue

Evelyn’s seven husbands in order are:

• “Poor” Ernie Diaz
• “Goddamn” Don Adler
• “Gullible” Mick Riva
• “Clever” Rex North
• “Brilliant, Kindhearted, Tortured” Harry Cameron
• “Disappointing” Max Girard
• “Agreeable” Robert Jamison

Yes! The streaming service announced in March 2022 that it acquired the rights for the film adaptation, with Leslye Headland directing (whose known for Russian Doll  series and the Star Wars series,  The Acolyte ).

The casting and release date are still undetermined.

While the book does talk about themes surrounding sexual identity, there are no explicit sex scenes.

Enjoyed this review? Then, be sure to add ‘The Seven Husband of Evelyn Hugo’ to your TBR. And if you have already read this book and have some thoughts to share, drop them in the comments below. I would love to hear them!

Founder & Writer of The Creatorpreneur Diary blog. I'm an overworked doctor by day and an aspiring content creator by night. My goal is to share my journey as I learn to navigate the world of online marketing, in the hopes of helping you do the same.

Steamy, Fun & Unforgettable: It Happened One Summer Review

Hooked on hook, line and sinker by tessa bailey, you may also like, how to read tessa bailey books in order..., how to read emily henry books in order..., how to read abby jimenez books in order..., family & fire: malibu rising book review, complete guide: daisy jones and the six characters, 50 lyssa kay adams quotes that you’ll love, a must-read: daisy jones & the six book..., honest review: five years from now by paige..., amour & amis: reviewing from paris, in love..., caskets & kisses: morbidly yours review, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

Copyright @2024 – The Creatorpreneur Diary. Hosted by Kinsta .

The Washburn Review

• Subscribe to our newsletter!
• Download the College News Source app!

Book Reviews

Book Review: ‘The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo’

Anjali Tamang , Content Creator | March 19, 2023

courtesy of Google Images

Evelyn Hugo in her prominent emerald dress, represents the first exposure to her sexual identity and conceals the dark side of her marriage. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo was published June 13, 2017.

I have always been a fan of Evelyn, despite her explicit claims to be a bad person and having done awful things. Evelyn could not find true love despite being married several times; however, when she found the love of her life in a movie set as a co-star, she dedicated her life to the only woman she loved. This book is a letter to her only love, where Evelyn explains about her life before, after and when they were together.

Born as Evelyn Elena Herrera, Evelyn Hugo achieved her dream of being the biggest star of her time. Set in early Hollywood when it was very challenging for women to break into the entertainment industry, this book tells us the rise of Evelyn from an abusive household to the most prominent star in the industry. It is the story of Evelyn and her seven husbands (all dead), the love of her life and how she achieved all the fame overnight.

Through Evelyn, Taylor Jenkins Reid, the author of the book, has managed to capture every possible social concern that a woman may face throughout her life. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid delivers the challenge and scandal of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community in 1950s-80s Hollywood, and how it impacted Evelyn’s relationship with her lover. There are not enough words in my vocabulary to describe this book, but it really engages the reader until there is nothing more left to read. It is charming, remarkable, enigmatic, among other expressions.

Although this book is written from the perspectives of both Evelyn and Monique, the sole author of her biography, it does not outshine the details of Monique’s life and how she learns about her family through Evelyn. Monique’s mysterious connection to Evelyn can be learned after reading the book. The book portrays how the decisions of Evelyn impacted on her life and how she does not regret any of them.

As a reader, I strongly recommend everyone to read this book as it portrays not only Evelyn’s life but also has many strong representations. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” is not just a story about her seven husbands, but a story of deeper meanings and values.

Edited by Rakesh Swarnakar and Glorianna Noland

• book review
• The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Your donation will support the student journalists of Washburn University. Your contribution will allow us to purchase equipment and cover our annual website hosting costs.

Book Review: Trevor Noah balances humor with harsh realties in his book ‘Born a Crime’

‘Seto Dharti’: A heartbreaking story of love, loss and hope

Ichabods discuss David Robertson’s memoir, ‘Black Water’

‘Little Women’ challenges gender norms in a post-war era

Author Juliet Patterson discusses health and healing at recent WUmester event

REVIEW: Deals with the devil causes chaos in the ‘Witch’ play

GALLERY: Topeka galleries showcase the work of local artists

A decision stamped in history: Brown v. Board of Education remains impactful

Students weigh their experience living on versus off campus

LGBTQ+ students give perspective to community and belonging on campus

Established 1885

• Student Media Staff

Comments (0)

Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The Espresso Edition

A Cozy Bookish Blog

Books , Reviews · January 29, 2021

Book Review: “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a melodramatic and salacious tale filled with Old Hollywood glamour and twist you’ll never see coming.

I listened to the audiobook for Daisy Jones & The Six in 2020 and was absolutely blown away. Not only has that novel taken the spot of my favorite audiobook ever, but it was also a brilliant story (review can be found  here ). I knew I wanted to listen to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo to compare and contrast the author’s work along with the audiobook quality.

This was such an easy read because it was really dramatic and entertaining. Almost like… listening to a movie? The day that I took down all of my Christmas decorations, I had this blasting through my speakers to keep me company. Let me tell you, I didn’t even realize how much time had passed when everything was in boxes and put away. I was thoroughly enjoying myself!

Let me tell you just why this book is so grand.

related posts

Book Review: The Midnight Library // Book Review: Early Departures // Book Review: Into the Heartless Wood

Why You Should Read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Below you can find my full and honest review. [tw: suicide, substance abuse, drug use, infidelity, abusive relationships].

“It’s always been fascinating to me how things can be simultaneously true and false, how people can be good and bad all in one, how someone can love you in a way that is beautifully selfless while serving themselves ruthlessly.” the seven husbands of evelyn hugo

“Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. When she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one in the journalism community is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now? Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband, David, has left her, and her career has stagnated. Regardless of why Evelyn has chosen her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career. Summoned to Evelyn’s Upper East Side apartment, Monique listens as Evelyn unfurls her story: from making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the late 80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way. As Evelyn’s life unfolds—revealing a ruthless ambition, an unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love—Monique begins to feel a very a real connection to the actress. But as Evelyn’s story catches up with the present, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.” (Goodreads Synopsis)

This story was incredible . From the second I began listening until the last few lines in the book, I was on the edge of my seat. Reid clearly knows how to write a furiously intoxicating leading lady. Although, I can’t be sure I’d even give the title of “lady” to Evelyn Hugo. She was monstrous in so many ways, but she admits to that early on, without any regrets. Or so it seems.

I found myself totally baffled as to why she hired nobody-journalist, Monique, to write her whole life into a really entertaining – though potentially unflattering – memoir. We learn some terrible secrets about Evelyn in the last few chapters of the book. Secrets that had me literally gasping with shock and turning to anybody to scream, “ THAT PLOT TWIST! ” This is when we learn how unabashedly ballsy Evelyn truly was and what she thinks of herself in her later years. Do we learn who her true love was? Yes, yes we do – but it’s not who you might think.

Was this book better than Daisy Jones? That was the question I was asked many times upon finishing it. I can’t be certain of the answer. It held similar elements of drama, lust, spite, and betrayal. It was definitely different enough to be on its own plane of existence, however. I have given them both five-star ratings. If you’re curious which is better, I’d just say to read them yourself, but don’t be surprised if you feel the same way as I do: that they’re equally INCREDIBLE but also very different from each other. Oh – and they’ll make your head spin.

Side note about the narration: it didn’t have a full cast as Daisy Jones did, but it didn’t need one. There weren’t nearly as many POVs to follow, so I think it was well done, though not quite as epic of a performance.

shop the post

The seven husbands of evelyn hugo.

Have you read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo or any of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s other books?

Pin for later.

never miss a post

You’ll also love.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Let me guess — she hired Monique because she’s in love with her! Masking her sexuality because of being in the public eye… I don’t know why I thought this book was about someone in the 1700s but clearly I was far off. The 20s are my favourite!

Hahaha that would be quite the plot twist (especially considering the really massive age-difference), but it’s not even close! 😉 You’ll just have to read the book to find out what the plot twist actually is!

AH! I had to skim your review because I have this book just waiting to be read on my bedside table – from the looks of it you enjoyed it and I really hope I do too! Always love your book reviews 🙂

Oh, there are no spoilers! I would’ve mentioned that at the beginning if there were 🙂 But I do hope you enjoy the book. It’s incredible!

I had read it last year. While I really enjoyed the story and the bold/strong characters I felt the ending was rushed and the twist was a little incomplete. But a great read nonetheless.

❥ tanvii.com

I’m so sorry to hear that you didn’t prefer the ending. I thought it was well-done (clearly), but everyone is entitled to their own opinions, of course! 🙂

I keep meaning to read this book, heard such great things about it!

Well, clearly I love it and highly recommend it, so you can just add my “great things” to your list 😉

This book sounds like it has a lovely story and I like the sound of the main characters also! x

Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk

It’s certainly a good book, but I wouldn’t say it’s very “lovely” as it’s a super intense and dramatic plot!

I just finished a book and was a looking for a new one to read. I just added this one to my list! Thanks for the recommendation…It sounds right up my alley!

Oooh glad my blog post could come at the perfect time! I highly recommend this one! It’s a phenomenal story.

Sounds like you really enjoyed this book! I keep meaning to read it and I’m hoping to get to it in the next couple of months. Great review!

It’s amazing! Such a great story with a phenomenal plot twist that I totally wasn’t expecting (and I’m the type of person to see a plot twist coming from a mile away)!

Oooh, I bet good money I could figure out the plot twist in the first few chapters! I’ve already got some ideas but I won’t say them here in case I accidentally spoil it for anyone…

I thought, from the title, this would be a boring, average piece of literary fiction – but if its pace is like a Hollywood drama this might be worth checking out!

See, that’s exactly how I usually am. I figure out the plot twist immediately, so I was shocked that this one surprised me as much as it did. I definitely wasn’t expecting it (and I’m the type of annoying person to be able to know a plot twist at the beginning of a series)! Haha! I hope you do read it 🙂

This book sounds totally up my alley! I love stories that take place in certain time periods. Putting this on my list!!

Lizzie http://www.lizzieinlace.com

Aaaand it’s a great audiobook, so it’ll work perfectly if you decide to try those out at some point 🙂

This review was incredible!!! You got me all high hopes for this book and I hope it will match my expectations!

I sure hope that you end up loving it as much as I did!

LOVE a good book with a complex, strong leading lady!

Me too! Evelyn is certainly that. I loved her and hated her all at once (with lots of other emotions in-between haha)

I LOVED Daisy Jones (one of my top books of 2020) and I need to listen to this one. Putting the audio on hold from my library right now so I can listen to it soon!

Daisy Jones was one of my top picks for 2020 and my favorite audiobook of all time! I definitely think if you enjoyed that you’ll enjoy this one too!!

This sounds like a really interesting book! I may have to check it out! Also, I’ve only ever listened to one audiobook in my life. This review definitely makes me want to listen to more!

Oh my gosh! I love audiobooks with my whole heart, but I only try to recommend ones that are really well-done. This one has a great performance (not quite like Daisy Jones & The Six, but still good) and the story is AMAZING.

This book has been on my TBR list for awhile now. I still need to read it! For sure will need to be read asap!

http://www.rdsobsessions.com

Oh my gosh! Yes, you definitely do need to read it! It’s so good!

It sounds like an interesting book and it’s great you enjoyed it, although with those warnings it might be a bit too heavy for me! I got a book from the opshop once and was really enjoying it then right near the end one of the characters died and I was in tears! I had a horrible sleep that night, as I read before bed, it wasn’t the kind of relaxing unwinding read I needed, haha!

Hope that you are having a good weekend 🙂 Another hot one here!

That’s totally understandable. I’m very sensitive, especially to triggers related to death/suicide, but this book did a really good job of handling those elements. If you ever do check it out, let me know what you think. You might be pleasantly surprised.

I’m so glad that you loved this! It seems like a lot of people love it, so maybe it’s finally time I give it a try? I’m always nervous with hyped up adult novels since I usually stick with YA!

I can relate to that! Up until last year, I pretty much never read adult fiction, but TJR’s books have both been winners so far and I plan to read more of her work in the future. They’re just so well-written.

This sounds so intriguing!!! She hires Monique bc moniques husband left her for Evelyn?!?! Haha!! I’ll have to read/listen to this one!!

Haha! It’s fun to see what people think the plot twist is going to be before they read it. Now you definitely need to read to find out if you’re right or wrong 😉

I read this one before I read Daisy Jones and I have to say I liked it better! It might be because Evelyn Hugo was for a book club and we had such fun discussing it. Love them both but this book just really got me for so many reasons!

Xx Reb // http://www.rebeccapiersol.me

I’m glad you enjoyed it! It’s such a great book. I can definitely see why it would be fun for a book club!

I’m on the waitlist at the library for this book because, like you, I REALLY loved Daisy Jones and the Six! I can’t wait to read it!

Ooh I hope you enjoy this when you read it! Let me know what you think of the plot twist 😉

I read this book and loved it too! I thought it was very well done and quite different from any book I’ve read before. I loved how it went back and forth from the two different point of views. And I did not see that plot twist coming until a little before it was revealed!

It’s certainly a unique book. The author does an amazing job writing creative and dramatic stories. Have you also read Daisy Jones & The Six?

I love all your book reviews. Adding this to my library list!

I hope you love it when you do get a chance to read it. It’s phenomenal! And I highly recommend Daisy Jones & The Six as well 🙂

This seems like a really good book to read. I like the title and the plot. It seems interesting.

It’s a wonderful book and clearly, I highly recommend it 😉 I hope you do check it out in the near future.

I haven’t read this book or anything from this author actually but I’ve heard SUCH great things so I’m definitely going to be adding it to my TBR list. I might treat myself for Valentine’s Day 🙂 xxx

There’s a reason it’s so hyped. I’m not usually one to love a hyped book, if I’m honest, but this one lives up to it! I hope you do treat yourself!

How have I not heard of this book? It sounds amazing!

Katie | katieemmabeauty.com

I’m not sure! It’s really popular! But now I understand why – it’s seriously phenomenal. I definitely recommend it.

This was one of my absolute favorite reads from last year. The plot twist (twists?!) was so good and it was a well-written book all around. I’m looking forward to reading Daisy Jones as I heard that is an excellent read as well.

I’m so glad you enjoyed it! It’s such an incredible book and so beautifully written. If you liked this, you’re definitely going to love Daisy Jones & The Six (I highly HIGHLY recommend the audiobook for that one)!

I need to check into this! I love it when an audiobook can do the real book justice – sometimes audiobooks can be boring, but this sounds so good. So does Daisy Jones & The Six – I need to listen to them both!

I’m a huge fan of audiobooks and rarely find them boring. However, some are just far superior to others! Daisy Jones was definitely in the superior category, but Evelyn Hugo was just an all-around excellent book! I think it’d be great to enjoy in any format!

Added this to my to-read list this year! I’ll also check out the audiobook. Tbh, I never tried audiobooks because I think it will make my mind wander while listening to it. But I was hooked when you said it seems like listening to a movie! Thank you for sharing this. 🙂

Audiobooks are phenomenal – but I know they can be challenging for some people. I highly recommend this one and Daisy Jones & The Six (my favorite audiobook EVER and often compared to a podcast) if you’re looking to get into audiobooks at all.

I’m Hosting a Virtual Book Club!

follow @ theespressoedition

Copyright © 2024 The Espresso Edition · Theme by 17th Avenue

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Samantha Kilford

Tech PR & Bookworm

Book Review: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

July 3, 2022 · In: Book Review , Books

Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one in the journalism community is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?

Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband, David, has left her, and her career has stagnated. Regardless of why Evelyn has chosen her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.

Summoned to Evelyn’s Upper East Side apartment, Monique listens as Evelyn unfurls her story: from making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the late 80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way.

As Evelyn’s life unfolds through the decades—revealing a ruthless ambition, an unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love—Monique begins to feel a very a real connection to the actress. But as Evelyn’s story catches up with the present, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.

“IT’S ALWAYS BEEN FASCINATING TO ME HOW THINGS CAN BE SIMULTANEOUSLY TRUE AND FALSE, HOW PEOPLE CAN BE GOOD AND BAD ALL IN ONE, HOW SOMEONE CAN LOVE YOU IN A WAY THAT IS BEAUTIFULLY SELFLESS WHILE SERVING THEMSELVES RUTHLESSLY.”

I am broken. Like sobbing on my sofa kind of broken. I am that gif of Rylan at Judges’ Houses.

Truth be told, I received a copy of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo years ago. I’m unsure whether life was just insanely busy or whether the rave reviews made me wary, but I’m sad to say that it sat on my bookshelf gathering dust until recently.

The high praise for The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo couldn’t be more justified. It is one of the most heartbreakingly beautiful books that I have read in long, long time.

Evelyn is a character that effortlessly exudes glamour; she’s an engima, a ruthless goddess, a class of her own. I was instantly drawn into her world.

Evelyn Hugo is one of the most magnetic characters that I’ve ever encountered in all my literary adventures. She was unapologetic, with a refreshing awareness of how she was perceived as well as her actions and the consequences that followed. She basked in her power, shamelessly manipulating others to her advantage. Throughout her tumultuous Hollywood career, Evelyn has made many decisions that hurt the people around her. She’s no angel, but she’s hard to hate. A truly morally grey character that you can’t help but feel compelled and fascinated by.

Reid has succeeded in creating a character that completely embodies and exudes Old Hollywood glamour in Evelyn. Despite her being fictional, she felt completely and utterly real. Evelyn commands your attention on every page as much as the real life screen starlets of the day did.

As we learn about Evelyn’s many relationships, my heart ached for her. I loved her deeply. I revelled in her merciless ambition and tenacity at the start and, as she was swallowed further into the Hollywood machine, I was gripped as she navigated her vulnerability both as a woman and as an actress in Hollywood along with her strong-willed determination to succeed at all costs.

Her turbulent relationship with Don was gut-wrenching, her marriage to Max even more so when it becomes evident he was only interested in marrying the glamorous ideal version of her that he had in his head. Then there’s the men that Evelyn felt forced to marry to keep up appearances and save her career. Yet, it was her friendship with Harry Cameron and her bond with Celia St. James that tore me apart. I shan’t say much due to spoilers but, god, what a beautiful and tragic tale.

I’ll admit that I overlooked Monique – the journalist tasked with documenting Evelyn’s life – as I was completely entranced by Evelyn herself. Therefore, that twist at the end hit me like a ton of bricks and left me reeling for days.

For all the salacious shenanigans and nouveau riche glamour, the novel deals with some very deep and throught-provoking themes that I didn’t initially expect. This isn’t a frivolous or self-indulgent story of Hollywood excess, but actually a really poignant novel about love. Specifically, homosexual and bisexual love in an era where there was much stigma and same sex couples faced deplorable consequences. Reid also explores racism, domestic abuse, alcoholism, regret and grief within Evelyn’s story.

I loathe to use the term emotional rollercoaster for such a beautiful book, but it definitely applies. It’s heartbreaking, dramatic, crude and witty. You’ll laugh and you’ll cry, and you’ll cherish the time spent living in Evelyn Hugo’s world.

Few books have captivated me the way that The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo has. Evelyn casts a long shadow and leaves a truly haunting presence. I’m giddy with excitement for the Netflix adaptation.

you’ll also love

Join the List

Stay up to date & receive the latest posts in your inbox.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Book Review: How to Love Your Neighbour

• Legal Disclosures

Copyright © 2024 · Theme by 17th Avenue

• Student Life
• Digital Editions
• Advertising
• Editorial Policy
• Meet The Staff
• Join Our Team

Book Review: ‘The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo’

This #BookTok recommended novel is as famous as Evelyn Hugo herself

Gapping like a fish, mouth wide open is how Taylor Jenkins Reid’s novel, “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo,” leaves readers. Twists, heartbreak and unexpected relationships fill the 385 pages. It’s hard to ignore the hundreds of avid readers who all consistently recommend this book on #BookTok. Evelyn’s story is one that does deserve the recognition it has acquired. You won’t want to pass it over on the shelves.

Jenkins Reid uses a variety of literary techniques within the novel. It opens with a clipping from a New York Times article (made up only for use in the story) that discusses how the fictionally world-famous “film legend” Evelyn Hugo will be auctioning off her most famous gowns for a charity donation. It overviews Evelyn’s seven marriages and her rise to fame, all the while luring readers in with the many missing details left out from the snippet.

Page three leads to Monique Grant, who is a partial narrator of the novel. She’s been requested by Evelyn herself to conduct an exclusive interview through Monique’s employer, the magazine company, Vivant. This request doesn’t seem unusual until it’s mentioned that Monique is a rising writer who only does small-scale stories, and Evelyn has not participated in an interview in decades.

With a plotline developing that has Monique as the narrator, a writing choice shifts this style. The last lines of chapter five read, “‘OK,’ Evelyn says, nodding. ‘It’s as good a place to start as any.’” It seems only natural that the next page will finally start with Evelyn’s first husband and the beginning of her career.

Turn the page and you’re looking at a majority white layout that reads “Poor Ernie Diaz” in large bold print.

Another fast turn, almost causing the page to rip, leads into a first-person perspective that readers realize is Evelyn reliving her past experiences. Flawlessly done, Jenkins Reid takes readers into Evelyn’s perspective: letting Evelyn share her story from her viewpoint. It offers a play-by-play and insight into the mystery that is Evelyn Hugo.

This back-and-forth narrator perspective continues throughout the entirety of the novel. Weaved throughout without interrupting the flow of the story, Monique and Evelyn develop their interview story for Vivant.

Each husband, of which there are seven, has their own white page with a description and their name. As mentioned, there’s Poor Ernie Diaz, then Goddamn Don Adler, Gullible Mick Riva, Clever Rex North, Brilliant, Kindhearted, Tortured Harry Cameron and Agreeable Robert Jamison. Each title prequels that man’s significance to Evelyn’s life story. Readers can expect that the next few chapters will explain why they married and then, eventually, what lead to their divorce. The descriptive adjectives allude to the relationship dynamics with each man, and as readers see, they’re spot on.

While the focus is on each individual marriage, Evelyn mentions the highs and lows of her movie career starting in the 1950s. She shares the joys of her life and the moments where she felt most discouraged. Among all the details, the main theme running the course of the novel is the big question: Who is Evelyn truly in love with?

The answer is one that is both admirable and shocking.

While readers do learn about Evelyn’s real love, Jenkins Reid also throws in a variety of cruel plot twists within the last 100 pages. It’s a whirlwind.

Who is Evelyn’s true love? How does each lover die, and how do they all decease before Evelyn? What’s the significance of Monique being the interviewer? What’s Evelyn’s end goal by telling her story in her own words? What are the true costs of living in the limelight? Is it better to have fame or love?

With all these questions whirling around, the ending is a page-turning, white-knuckled conclusion that you won’t see coming but you’ll love, nonetheless. Jenkins Reid has left readers walking away smirking, as the real Evelyn Hugo finally gets her moment.

Oh, and don’t forget to keep your eyes open for Evelyn’s eighth marriage.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Professor strives to make physical activity fair

Rock water: the unfiltered truth

Cozy Campus

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• The Rocket Archives
• Honors & Awards
• Partnered Content

The Grey: Film action packed but too predictable

Soul Café showcases diversity of student talent

• Sign up and get a free ebook!
• Don't miss our $0.99 ebook deals!

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

• Unabridged Audio Download

Trade Paperback

LIST PRICE $17.00

Buy from Other Retailers

• Amazon logo
• Bookshop logo

Table of Contents

Reading group guide.

• Rave and Reviews

About The Book

• Hihello565 says: Even people at Vivant don’t want to work at Vivant anymore. Corporate overlords producing censored advertiser courting bullshit.
• Ppppppppppps reply to Hihello565: Yeah, OK. Something tells me if the most well-respected, sophisticated magazine in the country offered you a job, you’d take it.
• EChristine999 says: Didn’t Evelyn’s daughter die of cancer recently? I feel like I read something recently about that. So heartbreaking. BTW, that picture of Evelyn at Harry Cameron’s grave? Basically ruined me for months. Beautiful family. So sad that she lost them.
• MrsJeanineGrambs says: I do not care about Evelyn Hugo AT ALL. STOP WRITING ABOUT THESE PEOPLE. Her marriages, affairs, and most of her movies just go to prove one thing: Slut. Three A.M. was a disgrace to women. Focus your attention on people that deserve it.
• SexyLexi89 says: Evelyn Hugo is maybe the most beautiful woman of all time. That shot in Boute-en-Train where she’s coming out of the water naked and the camera cuts to black right before you see her nipples? So good.
• PennyDriverKLM says: All hail Evelyn Hugo for making blond hair and dark eyebrows THE LOOK. Evelyn, I salute you.
• YuppiePigs3 says: Too skinny! Not for me.
• EvelynHugoIsASaint says: This is a woman who has donated MILLIONS OF DOLLARS to charities for battered women’s organizations and LGBTQ+ interests, and now she’s auctioning off gowns for cancer research and all you can talk about is her eyebrow game? Seriously?
• JuliaSantos@TheSpill reply to EvelynHugoIsASaint: This is a fair point, I guess. SORRY. In my defense, she started making millions by being a badass business bitch back in the ’60s. And she would never have had the clout to do that without her talent and beauty, and she never would have been as beautiful without DEM BROWS. But OK, fair point.
• EvelynHugoIsASaint reply to JuliaSantos@TheSpill: Ugh. Sorry for being so bitchy. I skipped lunch. Mea culpa. For what it’s worth, Vivant won’t do half as well with this story as you would have. Evelyn should have chosen you.
• JuliaSantos@TheSpill reply to EvelynHugoIsASaint: Right????? Who is Monique Grant anyway? BORING. I’m coming for her…

Get a FREE ebook by joining our mailing list today! Plus, receive recommendations for your next Book Club read.

About The Author

Taylor Jenkins Reid is the author of the  New York Times  bestselling novels  Carrie Soto Is Back ,  Malibu Rising ,  Daisy Jones and The Six  and  The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo , as well as  One True Loves ,  Maybe in Another Life ,  After I Do , and  Forever, Interrupted . Her books have been chosen by Reese’s Book Club, Read with Jenna, and Book of the Month. Her novel  Daisy Jones and The Six  is now a limited series on Amazon Prime. She lives in Los Angeles.  

Product Details

• Publisher: Atria Books (May 29, 2018)
• Length: 400 pages
• ISBN13: 9781501161933

Browse Related Books

• Fiction > Women

Related Articles

• Staff Picks: 15 Books We Can’t Wait to Give as Holiday Gifts - Off the Shelf
• 10 Page-Turners to Read After The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo - Off the Shelf
• Staff Picks: 6 Iconic Characters Every Reader Should Know - Off the Shelf
• 5 Mysterious Characters with Secrets You’ll Love to Unravel - Off the Shelf
• 6 Book Club Novels Where Past and Present Collide - Off the Shelf
• Holiday Sweepstakes: Enter for a Chance to Win Books, Décor, and More! - Off the Shelf
• My 8 Favorite Audiobook Listens of 2021 (So Far) - Off the Shelf
• Reading Reactions: Our First Impressions of 7 Popular Books - Off the Shelf
• 9 Brilliant Novels BookTok Should Obsess Over Next - Off the Shelf
• Readers’ Choice: Your 9 Favorite Classics and What to Read Next - Off the Shelf
• 6 Book-to-Screen Adaptations We Can’t Wait to Watch in 2021 - Off the Shelf
• Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Style with These 9 Fictional Parties - Off the Shelf
• Readers’ Choice: The 10 Best Book Recommendations You’ve Ever Received - Off the Shelf
• 10 Dual Timeline Novels with Plots You’ll Be Desperate to Unravel - Off the Shelf
• The Breakfast at Tiffany’s TBR: 5 Books Full of Fabulous Female Characters - Off the Shelf
• Old and New: The Best Novels to Read If You Loved These Classics - Off the Shelf
• 9 Book Club Picks You Must Read This Spring - Off the Shelf
• The TJR TBR: 5 Taylor Jenkins Reid Novels You Must Read - Off the Shelf
• 8 Scandalous Reads Featuring the Real Housewives of Literature - Off the Shelf
• Summer Reading Recommendations from Off the Shelf - Off the Shelf
• 6 Favorite Books New in Paperback This May - Off the Shelf
• Enter for a Chance to Win a Year’s Worth of Book Club Books - Off the Shelf
• Readers’ Choice: October’s 10 Most Shelved Books on Off the Shelf - Off the Shelf
• Join Our Book Club and You Could Win 14 of Our Favorite Reads - Off the Shelf
• Your Perfect Beach Read Just Needs One Thing… Seven Marriages - Off the Shelf

Raves and Reviews

Praise for The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo : “Riveting, heart-wrenching, and full of Old Hollywood glamour, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is one of the most captivating reads of 2017 .”

"A novel of Old Hollywood that's simultaneously gossipy and poignant . Look no further for the glamour, ambition and shocking secrets your beach-blanket sessions demand."

“Come for the glam old Hollywood vibes ; stay for a touching tale of a young reporter and a silver-screen legend.”

– Cosmopolitan

"In her mesmerizing tale, Taylor Jenkins Reid explores Hollywood’s heyday with a heroine akin to Elizabeth Taylor. Movie icon Evelyn Hugo, now a recluse at 79, unfurls the story of her glamorous life and her scandalous seven marriages."

– Us Weekly

“The epic adventures Evelyn creates over the course of a lifetime will leave every female reader mesmerized. This wildly addictive journey of a reclusive Hollywood starlet and her tumultuous Tinseltown journey comes with unexpected twists and the most satisfying of drama .”

“If you're looking for a book to take on holiday this summer, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo has got all the glitz and glamour to make it a perfect beach read — as long as you're prepared to cry off all your sunscreen, because this book gets *emotional*. Each of Evelyn's marriages comes with its own hurt and heartbreak, from infidelity and betrayal to domestic abuse. But running throughout Evelyn's tumultuous life is one great love that will leave you sobbing into the pages .”

“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is more than escapism fiction sweeping its audience back to an era when show biz glamour danced with real-life intrigue, romantic entanglements and perceived impropriety. With memorable characters rivaling any Hollywood blockbuster , Taylor Jenkins Reid marries themes of loyalty, betrayal, friendship and love into a soaring, fast-paced and gripping performance . It leaves readers asking if they are merely role-playing with those they love or being true to an authentic self.”

– Shelf Awareness, starred review

"[ The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo ] is fascinating, emotional and will be hard to put down . For fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid, this is her best work yet ."

– Associated Press

"A spellbinding novel about love, glamour and the price of fame ."

– Emily Giffin, New York Times bestselling author of First Comes Love

"In her latest mesmerizing tale, Reid transports readers back to Hollywood’s heyday with a heroine in the likes of — but more intriguing than — Elizabeth Taylor, Zsa Zsa Gabor and Katherine Hepburn. Yes, Evelyn Hugo is the glamorous idol you admire, but she’s also the relentless fighter you aspire to be . Her life’s story is heartbreaking, yet beautiful and will keep readers captivated until the very last page."

– Jamie Blynn, Us Weekly

“ The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is the total package: the very best of Classic Hollywood intrigue, a delicious twist, and incisive commentary on the wages of stardom, especially for women.”

– Anne Helen Petersen, BuzzFeed culture writer and author of Scandals of Classic Hollywood

" Reid’s characters will enchant readers as they travel through the glitz and glamour of Old Hollywood and the truths they both must confront."

– Real Simple

“ Taylor Jenkins Reid is the queen of queens when it comes to beach reads , and this breathtaking treat proves once again the throne is hers alone.”

" Addictive, dazzling and bound to leave you in tears (classic Taylor Jenkins Reid), The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo should be your No. 1 reading priority this summer."

“Leave it to Taylor Jenkins Reid to keep readers captivated, from the first page to the last. With a parade of lovable characters and unputdownable plot , The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo should top every reading list this summer.”

– Working Mother

“A cinematic tale with hardscrabble roots, staggering highs and sickening lows . The novel reads like a celebrity tell-all, and this makes it delicious. But it's also got heft, because Hugo's story is one of overcoming adversity, racism and sexism to get to the top . She fails, falls, triumphs and learns difficult lessons about the things that really matter. With this riveting novel, Reid has created an exceptional character with the wherewithal to take on the patriarchy .”

– Globe and Mail

"A big, juicy read …Reid expertly captures the hothouse nature of Hollywood…the story is fresh, and the end reveal is worth the wait”

– Historical Novel Society

"This sweeping tale is about an aging Hollywood starlet and the rookie magazine reporter she hires to pen her breathtaking (and scandalous) life story. Trust us: You’ll be swooning over the twist for months ."

– Brit & Co.

“Jenkins has crafted another tale sure to appeal to fans of women’s fiction, Susan Meissner, and Beatriz Williams .”

– Library Journal

"Evelyn Hugo is a character who can demand top billing...Reid's heroine reveals her darkest secrets as if she were wiping off makeup at the end of the night—a celebration of human frailty that speaks to the Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor in us all ."

– Kirkus Reviews

"Reid knows how to tug at heart strings with unusual tales of finding real and lasting love...the reader [will be] captivated by old Hollywood glamour, intriguing and complex characters, and Reid’s unsurpassed ability to leave her audience reaching for a hankie. An utterly unique take on what truly makes a family.”

" The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo has big, juicy secrets at its heart-- not just about the surprising identity of movie star Evelyn Hugo's true love, but of the lengths she has gone to protect that mysterious lover. Brimming with heartache, betrayal, and a lifetime of Hollywood gossip, this raucous novel will seduce you even as it leaves you wanting more ."

– Miranda Beverly-Whittemore, New York Times bestselling author of Bittersweet and June

"A glamorous romp through Hollywood in its heyday, Taylor Jenkins Reid’s latest offers up several unexpected twists and a dazzling, ambitious movie star who will break your heart."

– Fiona Davis, author of The Dollhouse

"Evelyn Hugo makes Liz Taylor seem pedestrian. Taylor Jenkins Reid has drawn a rich, emotionally complex heroine who is so real that you'll forget she only lives in the pages of a book . This is an utterly compelling dance with love and tragedy, sometimes both at once; you'll laugh with Evelyn, cry with her, ache with her, and then go back to page one and do it all over again."

– Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan, authors of The Royal We

“Anyone who appreciates old Hollywood glamour will want to check this one out .”

– Today.com

Resources and Downloads

High resolution images.

• Book Cover Image (jpg): The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo Trade Paperback 9781501161933

Get a FREE ebook by joining our mailing list today!

Plus, receive recommendations and exclusive offers on all of your favorite books and authors from Simon & Schuster.

More books from this author: Taylor Jenkins Reid

You may also like: Thriller and Mystery Staff Picks

More to Explore

Limited Time eBook Deals

Check out this month's discounted reads.

Our Summer Reading Recommendations

Red-hot romances, poolside fiction, and blockbuster picks, oh my! Start reading the hottest books of the summer.

This Month's New Releases

From heart-pounding thrillers to poignant memoirs and everything in between, check out what's new this month.

Tell us what you like and we'll recommend books you'll love.

Advertisement

Supported by

Her Books Show the Lifestyles of the Fictional and Famous. She’s Poised for Some Fame of Her Own.

Taylor Jenkins Reid, the author of “Daisy Jones & the Six” and one of this summer’s hits, “Malibu Rising,” is tapping into the desire among readers (and Hollywood) for escapism plus complexity.

• Share full article

By Katherine Rosman

If Taylor Jenkins Reid were writing herself into one of her novels, which include “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo,” “ Daisy Jones & the Six ” and this year’s “ Malibu Rising ,” she might slip in a scene where, roaming the stacks of a university library in Boston, she comes across “Starring Roles,” the 1992 book by Ron Base that explores the trajectory of actors like Judy Garland and Dustin Hoffman, whose careers were transformed by roles that nearly went to others.

There Reid was, a 19-year-old pop-culture sponge — who spent a childhood vacation reading Lucille Ball’s memoir and who wrote movie quotes with marker on her bedroom walls (such as John Cusack’s “I don’t want to sell anything bought or processed” from “Say Anything” ) — finding, in “Starring Roles,” her bible. It laid bare the layers of fame: the fictional character, the actor, the persona the actor sells to the press and the image the press presents to the public.

“This has been the dynamic with movie stars since Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks,” Reid, 37, said on a video call while pacing the backyard of a Topanga Canyon rental (her Los Angeles house was under renovation), wearing a red T-shirt with the words , “Fiction, because real life is terrible.”

“Now with Instagram and Facebook, that’s what everyone’s doing,” she said. “We’re all putting forth a story about our lives that is not exactly our life. What I’m interested in is the difference between the truth and the myth.”

Reid’s truth, notwithstanding the terribleness of real life, is that with “Malibu Rising” and “Evelyn Hugo” currently on the best-seller lists, screen adaptations of two of her other books moving into production, and a third book in development, she has become a publishing juggernaut and a go-to creator in Hollywood.

“‘Malibu Rising’ was one of the most asked-about books that we were queried on by all of our clients this spring,” said Emily Conner, the founder of Conner Literary, which scouts material for producers and streaming media companies. “Post-pandemic, people are really wanting easy escapism, things that are entertaining and narrative and with a sense of time and place, and Taylor is a master of tapping into that.”

The entanglement of fame and real life frames Reid’s books. “Malibu Rising,” published in June by Ballantine, depicts two generations of a prominent family in the Southern California beach enclave. It focuses on a bikini model named Nina Riva, who has lost her mother, is estranged from her celebrity crooner father and has raised her three younger siblings on her own.

Set in 1983, the drama unfolds amid big waves, big parties and big affairs, but it poses thoughtful questions about the expectations often placed on women to provide men with forgiveness and absolution. It is one of three books by Reid to hit the best-seller lists in two years. It was a Jenna Bush book-club pick for July, and before it was published, it was optioned for Hulu to develop for television.

“Malibu Rising” is the follow-up to her 2019 novel-as-oral-history, “Daisy Jones & the Six,” which explores the frictions and affections between members of a 1970s rock band. It reads like the backdrop to a Joni Mitchell song.

“Daisy Jones” was selected by Reese Witherspoon for her book club in 2019, and is now being produced by her company Hello Sunshine as an Amazon limited series. Scheduled to start filming next month, it stars Riley Keough , the granddaughter of Elvis Presley and one of the leads in the movie “ Zola .”

“I devoured it, and I immediately flagged it for Reese, who read it at the speed of light,” said Lauren Neustadter, president of film and television for Hello Sunshine, who got a copy before it was published. “It was very clear to us when we read it that it was something that was perfect for adaptation and was also perfect for the book club, and we don’t often have overlap.” (At one point when she met with Reid, she put her on the phone with Witherspoon. When the call ended, Reid said, “I’m having an out-of-body experience, but I think Reese Witherspoon just told me all the reasons she loved my book,” Neustadter recalled.)

Before “Daisy Jones,” there was “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo,” Reid’s 2017 novel about a 1960s screen siren who steamrolls her way through high-profile marriages but hides her greatest love, for a woman. It hit the best-seller list for the first time this summer, thanks, Reid said, to TikTokers who discovered it amid the publicity for “Malibu Rising.”

Reid’s writing is “soapy and juicy and glamorous and complex,” said Amy Talkington, who is writing the pilot for “Malibu Rising” and was a co-executive producer for the Hulu limited series “ Little Fires Everywhere ,” based on the best-selling novel by Celeste Ng .

Streaming companies are hungry for content, Talkington said, that is “commercial, but they want it to be more, they want the themes to be there, they want the characters to be there, they want the complexity.”

Reid has also written a screen adaptation, with her husband Alex Jenkins Reid, of her 2016 novel, “One True Loves,” about a woman whose husband is presumed dead in a helicopter accident but is found years later, after she has gotten engaged to another man. The film will star Phillipa Soo, who played Eliza Hamilton in the original Broadway production of “Hamilton.”

Reid was raised in Ocean City, Md., and Acton, Mass. She had some standard millennial cultural tastes (“Saved by the Bell,” “Friends”), but her greatest crush was on Lucille Ball (“one of the first times that I was seeing a woman be silly, funny, unselfconscious and very carefree,” Reid said). She spent hours watching “I Love Lucy” and thinking about the separation and overlap of Lucy and Ricky Ricardo and Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.

She studied film and television at Emerson College, taking advantage of a satellite program in Los Angeles that the school offered to second-semester seniors. Still fixated by the interplay of actress and role, she landed an internship in the casting department for “ CSI: NY .”

After graduating, Reid became the casting assistant for the casting directors Sarah Finn and Randi Hiller, earning her first casting credit for the 2006 movie “The Guardian,” starring Kevin Costner and Ashton Kutcher. She began to write in her spare time.

“I couldn’t know Taylor would be this successful as a writer, but I’m also not surprised,” said Hiller, who now oversees feature film casting at the Walt Disney Company. When Reid was helping to cast a part, Hiller added, “she was always very focused on the interior life. Now, she’s writing characters that are very multilayered, they are quote-unquote flawed, but actually they are really just human, in the way we all are.”

In 2011, Reid quit her job in casting to focus on writing. She signed with a literary agent and drafted a novel, “Forever, Interrupted,” about a man and woman who, like Reid and her husband, met and eloped in a matter of months. The husband dies in a bike accident, forcing the wife and the mother-in-law she had never before met to grieve together.

The agent hated it, as did a manager Reid consulted. “I remember I was bawling my eyes out and laying on my bed,” she said. She thought of a story in Ball’s memoir about when an acting teacher told her mother that Ball had no talent and no future in entertainment.

“That did not stop Lucille Ball,” Reid said. “She found another way.”

She parted with the agent, reworked the book and submitted it to 30 agents. Twenty-nine passed on it, but one agent saw promise, signing Reid and selling the book. She wrote three more books published in the following three years: “After I Do,” in 2014; “Maybe in Another Life,” in 2015, and “One True Loves,” in 2016. The books found middling commercial success.

In 2013, she read a Vanity Fair excerpt from “ Ava Gardner: The Secret Conversations ,” about a ghost writer hired by Gardner to help her dish on her marriages to Frank Sinatra, Mickey Rooney and Artie Shaw. This was the spark for “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.” It sold well and elevated Reid’s profile as a novelist, but she still felt she wasn’t breaking through as she knew she could.

“I wanted to be a bigger name, and I wanted to be aggressive about that,” Reid said.

She decided to sign with a new agent, Theresa Park, who represents authors such as Nicholas Sparks and Janice Y.K. Lee . Reid pitched two ideas to Park: one about a man and woman who start a correspondence after learning their spouses are having an affair. The other a novel “about rock singers that were in love with each other but not admitting it and writing songs about each other,” written as an oral history.

Park loved the rock ’n’ roll idea. Reid began researching the music scene of the 1970s, but then realized what she had gotten herself into.

“How do you write a fake oral history?” she said. “Oral histories are predicated upon common knowledge. I have to somehow incept you with common knowledge from the very first sentence and then break it apart and undermine it. I have to somehow create a myth while cutting through the myth at the exact same time. I was like, ‘What have I done?’”

A year later, just before her daughter’s first birthday, she emailed the first draft of “Daisy Jones” to Park, who responded, “This is a masterpiece.” Published in 2019, the book was a hit with readers and debuted at No. 3 on the best-seller list for hardcover fiction.

Reid is now writing her next book, which she sees as the capstone to a “quartet” of books about women and fame. “It’s about a type of woman who I want to talk about, a woman who has naked ambition,” she said. “It has made me ask a lot of questions about myself, like, ‘At what point is it OK to lay it down and relax for a minute? When is enough enough?’”

Katherine Rosman is a features reporter who covers a range of topics including media and celebrity. She joined The Times in 2014. More about Katherine Rosman

Explore More in Books

Want to know about the best books to read and the latest news start here..

John S. Jacobs was a fugitive, an abolitionist — and the brother of the canonical author Harriet Jacobs. Now, his own fierce autobiography has re-emerged .

Don DeLillo’s fascination with terrorism, cults and mass culture’s weirder turns has given his work a prophetic air. Here are his essential books .

Jenny Erpenbeck’s “ Kairos ,” a novel about a torrid love affair in the final years of East Germany, won the International Booker Prize , the renowned award for fiction translated into English.

Kevin Kwan, the author of “Crazy Rich Asians,” left Singapore’s opulent, status-obsessed, upper crust when he was 11. He’s still writing about it .

Each week, top authors and critics join the Book Review’s podcast to talk about the latest news in the literary world. Listen here .

whatsurthoughts

Review of SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO

The main character EVELY HUGO shows the power here.

She is the woman every woman die to be…Starting the career in Hollywood was a huge step for her….. that she gave up her virginity in the back stage and in exchange all she got is POPULARITY, POWER, LEAD AND MONEY!!!

Like why not?? She fells in love with Don Adler faces the physical abuse but she gets money and popularity for that until he cheats on her….Then Evelyn starts to work on herself finds out she can love another woman and she falls for her.

Then she Breaks her heart and deals with marriages for money at start then after oscars and enough money all she wants was Celia St. James the love of her life.

The narrated end was very heart breaking I litrelly cried sobbed while reading it but I’ll say it was worth reading I completed the book in roughly 4-5 days.

Book misses the spice of romance yet the tragedy is finely maintaining the balance of interest to read.

All her seven husbands might loved her or not but she did cooked in the book I hope being the fictional character she still meets Celia in heaven or hell wherever she goes after all the things she did in her life.

She tells Monique (the interviewer) that she has no regrets what she has done was the ultimate power she holds. LOVED the work of Taylor here!!

Really thankful to my friend for lending me this tragic yet spontaneous book 😭

What are ur views???

Comment and subscribe to read whatsinmymind about the books!

Thankuu for reading thiss<3

Haven’t you heard Monique?? I loved Don Adler and Celia that means I am bisexual.

Share this:

Leave a comment cancel reply.

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Culture Rich Conversations

Culture Rich Conversations: ‘Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo’ by Taylor Jenkins Reid

May 28, 2024 by Bostin Christopher, KTOO

On this episode of Culture Rich Conversations from Juneau’s Black Awareness Association, host Christina Michelle and her guest, Angelica Fields-Morgan, have a discussion about the banned book, “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo,” by author Taylor Jenkins Reid. 

In the novel, legendary film star Evelyn Hugo tells reporter Monique Grant about her life. At 79 years old, with all her close family members and former spouses gone, Evelyn is finally ready to share the true story of her life, including the secret she has kept hidden from the public for decades.

Christina Michelle hosts the conversation. Culture Rich Conversations airs Thursday at 3:00 p.m. on KTOO and KAUK and is rebroadcast at 7:00 p.m. Listen online or subscribe to the podcast .

Subscribe to the podcast:

Culture Rich Conversations is a production of KTOO in partnership with the Black Awareness Association of Juneau . Natasha Boozer produced today’s show with assistance from Cheryl Snyder, Al Wilson, Bostin Christopher, and Craig Georg.

Sign up for The Signal

Top Alaska stories delivered to your inbox every week

Culture Rich Conversations "A Summer of Fun with Juneau's Black Community"

May 30, 2024

Culture Rich Conversations: Exploring the relationship between Black Alaskans and food

May 9, 2024

On this episode of Culture Rich Conversations from Juneau’s Black Awareness Association, host Christina Michelle and her guests are exploring the relationship between Black Alaskans and food.

Culture Rich Conversations: The Black-lived experience of becoming a new Alaskan

May 2, 2024

On this episode of Culture Rich Conversations from Juneau’s Black Awareness Association, host Christina Michelle and her guests have an open and honest conversation about the Black lived experience of becoming a new Alaskan in 2024.

Social media

Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram

Public Media

• Gavel Alaska Media Use Policy

Share on Mastodon

• Investigations
• Science & Tech
• Food & Drink
• Fashion & Beauty

Pairing Books With Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department 

By Mae Murphy

Article Summary

Taylor Swift has released her 11th studio album The Tortured Poets Department ( TTPD ) ! Alongside re-recording her masters and performing for three hours straight each night at the Eras Tour , she’s dropped 31 new songs. Her brilliance once again shines through her powerful lyrics, and this new era has Swifties more excited than ever.  

To celebrate Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour coming to the UK, we’re here with the perfect book recommendation to match some of our favourite songs.   

 The Tortured Poets Department – Just Kids by Patti Smith

 The titular track The Tortured Poets Department is full of literary references. Between Dylan Thomas and Patti Smith, it was a hard choice for who would get this spot. Patti Smith’s memoir Just Kids explores her complicated relationship with artist Robert Mapplethorpe. It’s an honest and moving story on youth, friendship, and love which Swift draws inspiration from on this track.  

 Down Bad – Ghosts by Dolly Alderton

  If you’ve ever been ghosted, you’ll know the pain behind Down Bad . In Ghosts , Alderton covers the brutal reality of ghosting. We get introduced to our protagonist Nina who meets Max. Alderton seems to set us up with all the trapping of a romantic comedy. Then, Max disappears and blocks Nina on everything after he tells her he loves her on the first date. To get back on her feet, Nina must deal with one ghost at a time. Alderton covers life after a heartbreak, and how platonic relationships can fulfil our need for love.   

 So long, London – Atonement by Ian McEwan

Yearning for something lost is familiar to Swift. So long, London associates heartbreak with the city. Just like Swift, Atonement links heartbreak to a place and time. Set in three time periods – 1935 England, World War II in France, and present-day England – McEwan explores how a half-innocent mistake can ruin lives. Narrated by the flawed Briony Tallis, she covers how she falsely accused her sister Cecilia’s boyfriend Robbie of rape. Briony yearns for an “atonement” she’ll never get and a romanticised version of her home, just like Swift in So Long, London . McEwan’s masterpiece covers the intricacies of love, guilt, and forgiveness.    

 The Manuscript – Writers & Lovers by Lily King

  Writing is therapeutic for Swift in The Manuscript . It’s a way for her to testify about the fact love did exist in a relationship even after it ends. Writers and Lovers follows an aspiring writer Casey who processes grief and romance through the process of writing. Casey is miserable in Boston, so she finds herself in writing groups and dating two vastly different men. The novel lingers on the feeling of being dissatisfied with life yet finding yourself in recording life through writing.  

 Fresh Out the Slammer – The Pisces by Mellissa Broder

  Fresh Out the Slammer is a situationship anthem. After spending time in a long-term relationship, Swift sings about the messy beauty of finding new love. The Pisces celebrates similar messiness as our protagonist, Lucy, falls in obsessive love with a merman after a break-up. It’s a super sharp satire with a truly unlikeable female protagonist. Broder’s writing is witty, vivid, and strangely sexy – Swift would most definitely approve.  

 ‘Loml’ – Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors

  Are you the loss or love of my life? Swift asks in Loml breaking down how a relationship can cross the boundaries of love into loss. Cleopatra and Frankenstein explores the fraught on-and-off relationship between Cleo and Frank. This is a story of how loneliness and addiction can drive people apart. Mellors makes you fall in and out of love with her characters as you watch them grow up and become different people. Their marriage is full of the kind of miscommunication that Swift sings about on Loml .  

Read more about our thoughts on  Cleopatra and Frankenstein here !

 Clara Bow – The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

  Clara Bow is a touching reflection on celebrity and legacy. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo spans the entirety of Evelyn Hugo’s life and rise to fame. She marries for fame and, sometimes, for love but her biggest love is fellow starlet Celia St. James. Then her life, like Swift and her predecessors, is examined by the writer Monique to understand her legacy. Don’t be put off by the TikTok hype around Taylor Jenkins Reid. Her books are worth reading, and they all link together within the same universe. As Clara Bow follows generations of stars, so does Evelyn Hugo .  

Read more: TikTok made me read it: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

The Black Dog – The Secret History by Donna Tartt

As Swift sings, old habits really do die screaming. The Secret History is essential reading for any Tortured Poet. Tartt follows a group of Classics students at a New England college after the death of a classmate. Her vivid prose conjures images of dark halls, wardrobes full of plaid skirts and trench coats, and haunting libraries all while telling a story of the deepest possible betrayal. Matching perfectly with Swift’s new aesthetic, like in The Black Dog , this is a classic dark academia novel.  

Getting Eras Tour Ready? Read some of our recommendations to immerse yourself in TTPD fully .   Recommending a book for each Taylor Swift era A ‘Taylor’-made star – Why Taylor Swift means so much to women and girls everywhere Book references in Taylor Swift’s songs: Lyrical masterpieces Inside Taylormania: What does it really mean to be a fan of the world’s biggest super-star?

• book recommendations
• dark academia
• Taylor Swift
• The Tortured Poets Department

More Coverage

Circadian rhythms of health: Why syncing with the environment is vital to wellbeing

Beats and Beyond: How Stage and Radio’s renovations could help amplify Manchester’s Electronic Music scene

Glossier: Cult brand or profit machine?

The Girls Aloud Show: A touching return from a legendary girl group

Popular articles.

Who’s ‘packing’ in the primates?

University archway vandalised with red paint

Sonny Angels: The art history behind your new best friend

My formative film: Sprinkles of Stardust can be seen everywhere

Episode 61- BOOK CLUB Pt. 2 - The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo Beautifully Healthy

• Health & Fitness

In this episode of Dr. Allison Key, Erika Smith, PA-C, and their friends continue their discussion of  The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. 

• Episode Website
• More Episodes
• 3:16 Healthcare

Top Podcasts In Health & Fitness

• Literature & Fiction
• Genre Fiction

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Buy new: .savingPriceOverride { color:#CC0C39!important; font-weight: 300!important; } .reinventMobileHeaderPrice { font-weight: 400; } #apex_offerDisplay_mobile_feature_div .reinventPriceSavingsPercentageMargin, #apex_offerDisplay_mobile_feature_div .reinventPricePriceToPayMargin { margin-right: 4px; } -41% $9.99 $ 9 . 99 FREE delivery Sunday, June 9 on orders shipped by Amazon over $35 Ships from: Amazon.com Sold by: Amazon.com

Return this item for free.

Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select your preferred free shipping option
• Drop off and leave!

Save with Used - Good .savingPriceOverride { color:#CC0C39!important; font-weight: 300!important; } .reinventMobileHeaderPrice { font-weight: 400; } #apex_offerDisplay_mobile_feature_div .reinventPriceSavingsPercentageMargin, #apex_offerDisplay_mobile_feature_div .reinventPricePriceToPayMargin { margin-right: 4px; } $7.96 $ 7 . 96 FREE delivery June 15 - 21 on orders shipped by Amazon over $35 Ships from: Amazon Sold by: ZBK Wholesale

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Follow the author

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo: A Novel Paperback – May 29, 2018

Purchase options and add-ons.

• Print length 400 pages
• Language English
• Publication date May 29, 2018
• Dimensions 5.31 x 1 x 8.25 inches
• ISBN-10 1501161938
• ISBN-13 978-1501161933
• See all details

Frequently bought together

Similar items that may ship from close to you

Get to know this book

What's it about, amazon editors say....

This dishy, slyly deep novel finds an aging, cloistered celebrity sitting down with an obscure journalist to “spill her tea.”

Popular highlight

From the publisher.

Editorial Reviews

About the author, excerpt. © reprinted by permission. all rights reserved..

• Hihello565 says: Even people at Vivant don’t want to work at Vivant anymore. Corporate overlords producing censored advertiser courting bullshit.
• Ppppppppppps reply to Hihello565: Yeah, OK. Something tells me if the most well-respected, sophisticated magazine in the country offered you a job, you’d take it.
• EChristine999 says: Didn’t Evelyn’s daughter die of cancer recently? I feel like I read something recently about that. So heartbreaking. BTW, that picture of Evelyn at Harry Cameron’s grave? Basically ruined me for months. Beautiful family. So sad that she lost them.
• MrsJeanineGrambs says: I do not care about Evelyn Hugo AT ALL. STOP WRITING ABOUT THESE PEOPLE. Her marriages, affairs, and most of her movies just go to prove one thing: Slut. Three A.M. was a disgrace to women. Focus your attention on people that deserve it.
• SexyLexi89 says: Evelyn Hugo is maybe the most beautiful woman of all time. That shot in Boute-en-Train where she’s coming out of the water naked and the camera cuts to black right before you see her nipples? So good.
• PennyDriverKLM says: All hail Evelyn Hugo for making blond hair and dark eyebrows THE LOOK. Evelyn, I salute you.
• YuppiePigs3 says: Too skinny! Not for me.
• EvelynHugoIsASaint says: This is a woman who has donated MILLIONS OF DOLLARS to charities for battered women’s organizations and LGBTQ+ interests, and now she’s auctioning off gowns for cancer research and all you can talk about is her eyebrow game? Seriously?
• JuliaSantos@TheSpill reply to EvelynHugoIsASaint: This is a fair point, I guess. SORRY. In my defense, she started making millions by being a badass business bitch back in the ’60s. And she would never have had the clout to do that without her talent and beauty, and she never would have been as beautiful without DEM BROWS. But OK, fair point.
• EvelynHugoIsASaint reply to JuliaSantos@TheSpill: Ugh. Sorry for being so bitchy. I skipped lunch. Mea culpa. For what it’s worth, Vivant won’t do half as well with this story as you would have. Evelyn should have chosen you.
• JuliaSantos@TheSpill reply to EvelynHugoIsASaint: Right????? Who is Monique Grant anyway? BORING. I’m coming for her…

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Atria Books; Reprint edition (May 29, 2018)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 400 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1501161938
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1501161933
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 10.4 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.31 x 1 x 8.25 inches
• #10 in Family Life Fiction (Books)
• #30 in Women's Domestic Life Fiction
• #94 in Contemporary Romance (Books)

Videos for this product

Click to play video

Do NOT buy this book until you watch this!

Real Reviews with Kristin James

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo - Likes and dislikes

Gaming Indoors

Honest Review- Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

✅ Honest Reviews with Halee ✅

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo- Is It Worth A Read?

Sophia Doyle

You don't encounter a book like this everyday

My honest review!

Honest Amber

Book Review of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Kay's Amazon Reviews

NOT what I expected! *no spoilers*

Bodanza Reviews!

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo: A Novel Review!

Honest Reviews From Real People

The TRUTH: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

✅ SB Reviews ✅

About the author

Taylor jenkins reid.

Taylor Jenkins Reid is the New York Times bestselling author of Daisy Jones & The Six and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, as well as One True Loves, Maybe in Another Life, After I Do, and Forever, Interrupted. Her newest novel, Malibu Rising, is out now. She lives in Los Angeles.

You can follow her on Instagram @tjenkinsreid.

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

The "Bridgerton" Cast Revealed What They're Reading Right Now

Posted: June 3, 2024 | Last updated: June 3, 2024

Jessica Madsen — Finding Me by Viola Davis

Viola Davis takes us through the story of her life. Consider this a love letter to self, especially since embracing who you truly are can take serious courage. "This is the path I took to finding my purpose but also my voice in a world that didn’t always see me," she says in the official synopsis.

"I love audiobooks so I actually have Viola Davis reading to me every night," Jessica says.

Finding Me has a 5-star rating on Amazon, and a 4.6 on Goodreads , both out of 5.

Hannah Dodd — Yellowface by R. F. Kuang

June Hayward and Athena Liu were primed to be the best new authors around, except for the fact June considers herself a no one. But when Athena dies in a freak accident, June steals her manuscript, about Chinese laborers during World War I, and transforms into Juniper Song, believing the idea that the story deserves to be told — no matter the cost.

Yellowface has a 3.9 rating on Amazon and 3.79 on Goodreads, both out of 5.

Hannah Dodd — Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

Chemist Elizabeth Zott wants to be just that — a chemist. Instead, she finds herself leading America's favorite cooking show Supper at Six . Her scientific approach to obtaining the perfect dinner captivates the nation, and inspires the housewives watching her to change their lives in the process. Check out our interview with Apple TV+ Lessons In Chemistry star Aja Naomi King !

Lessons in Chemistry has a 4.6 rating on Amazon and 4.3 on Goodreads , both out of 5.

Claudia Jessie — Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

Viv has given up fighting after a life full of bloodshed, and she's swapped her sword for coffee pots when she decides to open the first coffee shop in the city of Thune. She crosses paths with a variety of people, and might just find family along the way.

"It literally says on the cover, 'low stakes, high cozy vibes,'" Claudia says. "Well that about sums you up!" Hannah chimes in.

"Low stakes, real quiet, cozy vibes," Claudia continues. "Really comforting, it was like a big hug."

Legends & Lattes has a 4.6 on Amazon and 4.1 on Goodreads, both out of 5.

Hannah Dodd — The Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

When starlet Evelyn Hugo chooses Monique Grant to pen her life story, the unknown reporter is grateful (and very confused). As Evelyn reveals her rise to fame, and the seven husbands she married along the way, Monique gets a glimpse into the ambition, love, and loss that caught the entire world's attention.

"It really took me awhile to find another book that filled that [hole]," Hannah says.

The Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo has a 4.6 rating on Amazon and 4.4 on Goodreads, both out of 5.

Jessica Madsen — Dopamine Nation by Anna Lembke

In Dopamine Nation , Dr. Anna Lembke shows us how to find balance between pleasure and pain — and how to live in a world full of overconsumption and high-dopamine stimuli. You don't need to be a neuroscientist to understand this book, or to enjoy it!

Dopamine Nation has a 4.6 rating on Amazon and 3.9 on Goodreads, both out of 5.

Like Brit + Co's content? Be sure to follow us for more!

More for You

Yogurt Recall Update As FDA Sets Risk Level

A Sprinkle Of This Popular Spice Will Keep Roaches Out Of Your House

22 Older Adults Revealed What They're "Tired Of" At This Point In Their Life, And I Appreciate The Brutal, Older-And-Wiser Honesty

Unplugged: 12 Items You Should Unplug Now To See A Drastic Change in Your Utility Bill

Reclaim your privacy by disabling your cellphone carrier’s data tracking

This Is What a TSA Agent First Notices About You

“I would cut him out immediately”: Glen Powell Ensured He Was the Perfect Val Kilmer Replacement in Top Gun 2 That Tom Cruise Readily Accepted

Stephen A. Smith left speechless after Monica McNutt slams him on Caitlin Clark comments

The Only Way You Should Store Butter, According to Land O'Lakes

Shania Twain Onstage Error Takes Internet by Storm

This TikTok Hack Proves It's Easy To Get Rid Of Wasps With One Ingredient

Map reveals best places to live in the US if nuclear war breaks out

Alan Dershowitz advises Trump's attorney to 'move immediately' for sentencing: 'Timing is everything'

Marjorie Taylor Greene Refuses To Call Fauci A ‘Doctor’—And Is Chided By Fellow Republican—In Explosive Hearing

Doctor Shares Potential Harmful Side Effects of Popular Supplements

Battle with Texas rancher ends, 249 'zombie deer' killed amid state's largest CWD outbreak

What Those Colored Circles on Food Packages Actually Mean

The 1 Food Scrap To Keep If You Hate Ants

This 3-Ingredient Dinner Is My Weeknight Hero

How to clear the cache on your iPhone (and why you should)

Accessibility menu

• Email & apps

Not sure what you're looking for? Browse the A-Z index

Quicklinks at your fingertips!

Select which audience you belong to and we'll display quicklinks and announcements tailored to you.

Spread your wings as a UW-La Crosse Eagle!

Experience the power of a UWL education through high-impact learning and life-long friendships, all while surrounded by the epic beauty of La Crosse. Follow your path. We’ll show you the way.

• Campus Life
• Explore our academic programs
• Fast facts about UWL
• Campus Safety
• Cost and Aid
• Map and Directions
• Scholarships
• UWL Bookstore
• Housing Information
• Textbook Rental

Choose another audience

You’re kind of a big deal!

You’re part of a group of truly amazing people. At UWL, we are inspired every day by the driven, active and engaged students who make us so proud. That’s right, you’re amazing!

• Course catalog
• Canvas support
• Class timetable
• Community Engagement for students
• Office 365 (email, calendar, collaboration)
• Residence Life
• My UW System (HR)
• Student Organizations
• Dining, meal plans
• Financial information
• Pay for print
• Cashier's Office
• Eagle Help Desk
• Password reset
• Academic advising

Here in La Crosse, people come together to work for the common good.

At UWL, we live out the Wisconsin idea of public service and community engagement. We are proud to work with our many partners in La Crosse, giving back every day to a community that generously supports our teaching, learning and service mission.

Work with the Community Engagement Office

• Advance your adult degree
• Attend an event
• Develop your organization
• Discover small business resources
• Engage with students
• Explore UWL-community partnerships
• Hire an Eagle
• Register for youth programs
• Visit campus
• Work at UWL

The "La Crosse Experience" stays with you for a lifetime.

UWL pride stays strong long after graduation! Stay connected with our beautiful campus and the faculty and friends who made your "La Crosse Experience" so special.

• Lantern Magazine
• Alumni Calendar
• Class Notes
• Campus Events
• Athletic Schedules
• UWL Alumni & Friends Foundation
• Volunteer at UWL
• A-Z Directory

Experts. Scholars. Public servants. Community members.

UWL consistently delivers a high-quality and life-changing experience. We’re able to do it because of you, our talented and dedicated faculty and staff. You are the reason for our excellence!

• Campus Connection
• Campus calendar
• HR homepage
• Course Catalog
• Community Engagement for Instructors
• Community Engagement for Staff
• Digital Measures (Faculty Success)
• My Mediasite
• Google Drive
• Transferology Lab

Murphy Library News

News and updates from Murphy Library

Man of Leisure

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Posted 11:59 a.m. Friday , May 31 , 2024

"Once Upon a Time..."

By Jonathan Majak

Once upon a time (May 2023), in a land not so far away (Murphy Library), the hero of our tale (hi! it’s me! I’m the hero, it’s me!) was bracing himself for another summer at UWL. You probably just read that and went, “Bracing himself? Isn’t summer vacation one of the perks of working in education?” As a cataloguer who works in the library’s tech service department, summer is like any other season, just more muted. Gone are most of the students shuffling their way between buildings, the steady stream of new books to catalogues becomes a trickle at best and drought at worst, and, most devastatingly, Murphy’s Mug (and their baked goods) is closed.

To give you a concrete example I reached out to tech services and access services librarian Scott Pfitzinger for the numbers from our security gates at the front of the library that measure how many people are coming in and out of the library any given day, week, or month. Since it measures how many people are both coming in and out of the library, you take the gate number and then divide it in half. We here at Man of Leisure only allow the simplest of mathematical equations.

In April 2023 the monthly total was around 54,000 or 27,000 people. Obviously, a lot of those people are students who frequent the library daily. Fast forward to June of 2023 and those same security gates registered just shy of 4,000 or about 2,000 people the whole month.

“Looks like in the summer we have about six to eight percent of the numbers during our fall semester and maybe eight to ten percent of the spring semester numbers,” Pfitzinger told me.

Quite the vibe shift.

Speaking of shifting, Murphy Library’s leisure reading section had originally been located on the second floor but in 2022 had been moved down to the prime real estate location just off from Murphy’s Mug. The move had, initially, renewed interest in students and staff, but the leisure section is like one of the many potted plants scattered around the first floor of Murphy: it doesn’t stay alive without being carefully looked after. You may not water a bookshelf, but you do need tend to it to make sure its thriving.

We have lots of systems in place help us know what’s being read, what’s languishing on the shelf but sometimes you just dive in and see for yourself so that’s what I did. Over the course of 106 days, I managed to read 101 books. I’ve compiled a list of book summaries and reviews that will be presented in five sections. I hope you come along with me on this journey. I hope you find books that you will end up being favorites. I hope you deeply disagree with some of my opinions. Most importantly, I hope you enjoy this project as much as I did while doing it. So get yourself a nice cool drink, put on your reading glasses if needed and let’s get to the first set of books.

1. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Keywords: Romance, Historical Fiction, Old Hollywood

Synopsis: Reclusive old Hollywood movie legend Evelyn Hugo is ready to tell her life story to a young writer, and it’s a story exposing a lifetime of highs, lows, and celluloid secrets.

Review: What starts off as a seemingly obvious riff on Elizabeth Taylor’s legendary number of marriages reveals itself to be a clever examination of fame, family, identity and the sacrifices people make for all three.

View in catalog

2. Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

Keywords: Romance, LGBTQ, Enemies to Lovers

Synopsis: Boy meets boy. Boy hates boy. Boys cause international incident at royal wedding and must pretend to be friends to smooth it over and end up falling in love with each other all while one boy’s mother runs for re-election as President of the United States. Tale as old as time.

Review: When it comes to friends to lovers, a popular trope in romantic stories, Red, White and Royal Blue doesn’t reinvent the wheel but does put that wheel on a charming new vehicle.

3-6. Heartstopper vol. 1-4 by Alice Oseman

Keywords: Coming-of-age, LGBTQ, graphic novel, young adult

Synopsis: A coming of age story following two boys falling in love, finding themselves and trying to survive adolescence in one piece, all in the format of a graphic novel.

Review: A quick read that improves with each book as the series eventually strikes the right balance of sweet and serious.

7. The Body in the Library by Agatha Christie

Keywords: Mystery

Synopsis: Amateur sleuth Mrs. Marple is back on the case when her friends find a dead body in the library of their home.

Review: An enjoyable read that only loses some of its spark when Mrs. Marple is not the central figure investigating the murder.

8. The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway

Keywords: Classic fiction, fishing

Synopsis: A Hemingway classic, the story follows an old fisherman as he tries to capture a fish and all the resulting existential questions he must answer in the midst of that pursuit.

Review:  Your enjoyment of this novella may be swayed by how much talk of sea and fishing you can stand. But if you can get past that, this book is great look at one man making peace with all the what-ifs and what-could-have-beens of his life while out on the open ocean.

9. The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway

Keywords: Classic fiction, romance, bullfighting

Synopsis: A group of American expatriates travel around Europe, drinking and loving and fighting in the aftermath of World War I.

Review: A gaggle of Americans boozing and acting a fool in different glamorous foreign locales while not dealing with all their various traumas? I know, it sounds like I just described the latest hit series on Bravo but The Sun Also Rises proves that a book being a classic doesn’t mean it has to be stuffy.

10. The School for Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan

Keywords: Science fiction, dystopian, satire

Synopsis: After a momentary lapse in judgement threatens her custody of her child, a young mother enrolls in the School for Good Mothers to learn how to be the perfect maternal figure.

Review: A blistering piece of satirical science fiction in the tradition of Ira Levin’s The Stepford Wives, Chan’s The School for Good Mothers is a mix of sharply written dialogue, finely drawn characters and a plotline that the less you know about going into it the better it is.

11-13. The Summer I Turned Pretty series (The Summer I Turned Pretty, It’s Not Summer Without You, We’ll Always Have Summer) by Jenny Han

Keywords: Romance, coming-of-age, young adult, love triangles

Synopsis: This young adult trilogy follows the romantic entanglement of Isabel “Belly” Conklin with brothers Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher as they summer together at the Fisher family summer home.

Review: I will be very honest, reader. When I got to the end of this trilogy, I asked myself if this was merely a young adult book series or was it in fact a government experiment created for the sole purpose of breaking my spirit. That being said, my aggravation at pretty much every character (especially the central love triangle) is an exhibit of how the series does get you invested in their romances, and you do want to see it to its conclusion. Unfortunately for this series, the final book squanders a lot of the dramatic tension built across the first two books to come to an ending that is shocking in its inept way of tying up all the loose plot threads.

View in catalog

14. The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris

Keywords: Thriller, workplace, satire

Synopsis: A young Black woman working at a mostly White publishing house finds a kindred spirit in a new Black female hire but there may be more to the eye of both.

Review: Described as “Jordan Peel does The Devil Wears Prada,” this fast-paced thriller is reminiscent of that for sure but is so much more as it tackles respectability politics, the occasional hollowness of alleged representation in media, and how your greatest enemy can be just one cubicle away from you.

15. Ejaculate Responsibly by Gabrielle Blair

Keywords: Nonfiction, Reproductive rights

Synopsis: A nonfiction look at sex education with the thesis that every abortion is the result of a man ejaculating irresponsibly and how we view abortions, sexual health and contraception should stem from that.

Review: A must read, Blair lays out her argument that fundamentally all abortions are the results of a man ejaculating irresponsibly that flips a lot of pre-existing notions about pregnancy/abortion on its head in a concise, easy to read, visually dynamic way. It may not necessarily sway the reader but at the very least will provoke needed debate.

16. The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie

Synopsis: The iconic Hercules Poirot tries to track down a serial killer who is murdering people one letter a time.

Review: A pleasant, quick-moving mystery that is further proof of Agatha Christie’s powers as a mystery novelist.

17. Afterparties: Stories by Anthony Veasna So

Keywords: Contemporary short stories

Synopsis: A collection of short stories, Afterparties follows the interconnected lives of Cambodian Americans in California

Review: It is hard to overstate how much I enjoyed this collection of short stories. Funny, sad, spiritual, uplifting, depressing, these stories run the gamut of emotions, often within the same story.

18. My Government Means to Kill Me by Rasheed Newson

Keywords: Historical fiction, LGBTQ

Synopsis: A historical fiction novel, written in the style of a memoir, the book takes on the gay rights movement as seen through the eyes of a young gay Black man as he hobnobs with a host of influential historical figures.

Review: Admirable in its ambitions but clunky in its execution, Newson’s book is a highly informative historical novel that would be a good jumping off point for folks interested in LGTBQ history.

19. Farm Girl: A Wisconsin Memoir by Beuna Coburn Carlson

Keywords: Memoir, Wisconsin history

Synopsis: In this memoir, Carlson details her life as a girl growing up on a farm in Wisconsin during the Depression.

Review: While not particularly thrilling in terms of plot, Farm Girl does offer interesting glimpses into a bygone era of rural Wisconsin farm life through Carlson’s genial writing.

20. Who is Maud Dixon? By Alexandra Andrews

Keywords: Thriller, workplace satire

Synopsis: A young woman in publishing finds herself having to answer a couple questions: who the person behind the penname Maud Dixon is and what’s the worst thing you’re willing to do to get a bestseller

Review: This hilariously dark send-up of the publishing industry is a blast to read specifically because of all the ambitious monsters it introduces the readers to. Some may find the lack of sympathetic characters off-putting, but I found myself unable to put down the book as I wanted to find out their next dastardly deed.

• Tagged people: Jonathan Majak
• Tagged departments: Murphy Library