The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo Book Review - No Spoilers
Plot Summary
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a historical fiction novel centered on Evelyn Hugo, an aging Hollywood legend ready to tell the true story of her scandalous life. After decades of speculation, she finally chooses Monique Grant—a relatively unknown magazine reporter—to write her biography. As Evelyn recounts her rise to stardom, her seven marriages, and her deepest secrets, Monique learns that their meeting is no accident. The novel moves between the glamour of old Hollywood and Monique’s present-day life, building a layered portrait of ambition, love, loss, and identity.
Why I Love This Book
I love the emotional depth in this story. Evelyn Hugo is complicated, unapologetic, and unforgettable. She makes hard choices and owns them. I couldn’t stop thinking about her even after I finished the book. The writing is sharp and the way the story unfolds kept me completely pulled in. I cared deeply about Evelyn and Monique, and the tension between their past and present felt so real. The way this book explores power, sexuality, and what it costs to chase success felt honest and raw. I cried at times, but I also felt inspired. I didn’t just read about Evelyn—I believed in her. Her story felt bigger than fiction. I especially loved how love—real, painful, complicated love—is at the center of everything. It broke me and healed me at the same time.
Who Will Like This Book
If you like emotionally complex stories with strong, morally gray characters, you’ll connect with this. If you’re into historical fiction, stories about fame, identity, and LGBTQ+ love stories that don’t follow easy rules, this one’s for you. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy layered storytelling, slow reveals, and character-driven plots that stick with you.
⚠️ Trigger warning: This book contains emotional manipulation, domestic abuse, homophobia, and death. It handles these issues with care, but I recommend checking the full list of content warnings before reading.
Tagged As
historical fiction, hollywood romance, biographical fiction, LGBTQ+ romance, FF romance, forbidden romance, morally gray heroine, fame, dual timeline, emotional storytelling, slow burn, sapphic romance, strong female lead, journalist, found family, queer love story, character-driven, bittersweet, open-door romance, standalone, kindle unlimited
Steam Level
There are sensual scenes that matter to the story, but nothing overly graphic. The focus is more on emotional intimacy than physical detail, though the passion still feels real.
