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The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
Discussion Guide

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

A reclusive Hollywood icon reveals her scandalous life story to an unknown magazine reporter. Evelyn Hugo's tale of ambition, love, and sacrifice spans decades of Hollywood history and explores the price of fame and the power of true love.

HollywoodLGBTQ+AmbitionLove & SacrificeIdentity

Characters & Relationships

  • 1

    How does Evelyn Hugo's character challenge or reinforce your ideas about Hollywood icons?

  • 2

    Discuss the relationship between Evelyn and Monique. Why do you think Evelyn chose Monique to tell her story?

  • 3

    Which of Evelyn's seven husbands did you find most interesting and why?

  • 4

    How does Evelyn's relationship with Celia shape her life and career decisions?

Themes & Messages

  • 1

    What does the book say about ambition and the price of fame?

  • 2

    How does the novel explore LGBTQ+ identity, particularly in the context of Old Hollywood?

  • 3

    Discuss the theme of sacrifice. What does Evelyn sacrifice for her career and love?

  • 4

    What commentary does the book make about how we construct public personas versus private selves?

Historical Context

  • 1

    How accurately does the book portray Hollywood's Golden Age?

  • 2

    Discuss the challenges LGBTQ+ individuals faced in Hollywood during this era. How have things changed?

  • 3

    How does the book address issues of race and ethnicity in Hollywood?

  • 4

    What parallels can you draw between Evelyn's era and today's celebrity culture?

Structure & Storytelling

  • 1

    How effective is the interview format in telling Evelyn's story?

  • 2

    Discuss the revelation at the end. Were you surprised? Looking back, were there clues?

  • 3

    How does the dual timeline (past and present) enhance the narrative?

  • 4

    What did you think of the ending? Was it satisfying?

Personal Reflection

  • 1

    If you could ask Evelyn Hugo one question, what would it be?

  • 2

    Which of Evelyn's decisions did you agree or disagree with most strongly?

  • 3

    How did the book change your perspective on fame, love, or identity?

  • 4

    Would you recommend this book? What type of reader would enjoy it most?

Discussion Tips

  • •Research Old Hollywood stars who may have inspired Evelyn's character
  • •Discuss the evolution of LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood from then to now
  • •Consider watching classic Hollywood films from the era to understand the context
  • •Share your thoughts on how the book handles themes of bisexuality and fluid sexuality