The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo Summary

Evelyn Hugo, an iconic Old Hollywood actress, is 79 when she decides to tell her life story. She picks an unknown journalist, Monique Grant, for an exclusive and final interview. This choice raises questions about why Evelyn would choose Monique. Evelyn invites Monique to her glamorous home, laying the groundwork for a captivating and complex tale steeped in fame, love, and sacrifice.

Evelyn shares the details of her youth spent in Hell’s Kitchen, New York. Growing up poor under an abusive father, she wants to change her destiny. After marrying at just 14, she makes her way to Hollywood. Her early relationship with producer Harry Cameron is vital, as he plays a key role in her rise to stardom while helping her transform her image.

When her acting career begins to take off, Evelyn becomes renowned for her stunning looks and talent. However, her personal life is just as colorful, as she marries a total of seven times—each relationship has its reasons, from love to strategy, reflecting the complicated world of Hollywood.

The first of Evelyn's husbands is a young bond formed to escape her past. Their quick marriage ends when Evelyn catches the eye of Harry Cameron, moving her career forward immensely. With Harry's influence, Evelyn embraces the glittering life she desires, allowing her to shed her former self.

Next comes Don Adler, a passionate but harmful marriage. Initially loving, their relationship unravels as it becomes tumultuous, and Evelyn feels pressure to hide the violence she endures. This marriage is pivotal, thrusting her further into the public eye but shadowed by pain.

Evelyn then attempts a whirlwind marriage with musician Mick Riva. Seeking excitement and the spark of publicity, she faces disappointment when Mick proves disloyal and unsteady. Eventually, reality settles in and they separate after a turbulent time together.

Rex North is another strategic choice; their marriage focuses on complementary careers. However, Rex's openness about his love for another man leads to an amicable breakup. To disguise the divorce, Evelyn fakes a romance with Harry, maintaining valuable public ties within her career.

Fifth is her closest ally, Harry Cameron, whom she marries as a cover for their respective secret relationships. This marriage provides support in raising Evelyn’s daughter, Connor, born from a passionate affair with Celia St. James, her lifelong love.

Max Girard, her next husband, is captivated by Evelyn’s public persona. Although they marry, Max's obsession with her image grows tiring for her. Disenchanted and unsupported in emotional needs, Evelyn divorces him, longing for meaningful connection.

Evelyn's last husband is Robert Jamison, Celia's younger brother, marrying to care for Celia’s estate and their family. Their union develops tenderness amidst challenge, as it stands during difficult times when Celia's health declines.

Through it all, Evelyn navigates a clandestine relationship with fellow actress Celia, harboring deep feelings that survive trials specific to their time. While living together secretly, their bond thrives amidst the societal complexities of Hollywood.

The intertwining lives of Connor and Harry, alongside Evelyn's greatest love, blend emotion into her story. Following the events tied to Harry's tragic accident, Eve is faced with decisions to guard Danny's reputation—actions have consequences as layered truths come to light.

Ultimately, by confiding in Monique, Evelyn shares both her life story and a grave secret impacting Monique’s own

In the end of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, Evelyn reflects on her life and the choices she made while building her career. She shares her stories, conveying the lessons learned from each husband. She concludes by revealing the truth about her deep love for Celia, which nourishes her happiness and success despite all the sorrow.

Evelyn's story becomes a bestseller ultimately, but she directs her attention to the purpose of her life rather than fame. Through her journey, she emphasizes the importance of connections and sacrifices required for true love. By bringing her truth to light, Evelyn not only frees her own soul, but she also inspires others to embrace their stories.

Finally, while embracing a new chapter, Evelyn's narrative highlights resilience and self-discovery, allowing her to come to terms with her past. As part of her final act, she encourages Monique, the journalist telling her story, to prioritize her happiness, shores up her beliefs, and find her own love. Evelyn's courageous actions signify a return to herself as she seeks fulfillment beyond history, granting herself the personal growth she's always longed for.

• Evelyn Hugo: A glamorous and legendary Hollywood actress known for her seven marriages and complex personal life.
• Monique Grant: A struggling writer chosen by Evelyn to write her biography.
• Harry Cameron: Evelyn’s close friend and talented Hollywood producer, her second husband; they share a deep, platonic bond.
• Celia St. James: Evelyn's true love and secret partner; a co-star and a pivotal figure in her life.
• Ernie Diaz: Evelyn’s first husband, a Cuban-American working-class man from New York.
• Mick Riva: Evelyn’s third husband, a rockstar; they marry briefly to cover up her relationship with Celia.
• Max Girard: A French director and Evelyn’s sixth husband, who loves her as a star rather than as a person.
• Robert Jamison: Celia’s younger brother and Evelyn’s seventh and final husband, marrying for reasons related to Celia’s estate.

Supporting characters include John Braverman (Harry’s lover and Celia’s husband) and Grace, Evelyn’s loyal housekeeper.