Book rec: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Sometimes, a book comes into our hands at just the right moment. I had been seeing The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid everywhere—on social media, bestseller lists, and in recommendations from friends. I had read Daisy Jones & The Six before and really enjoyed it, but with so many other books on my list, I kept putting this one off. Until I finally decided to give it a chance… and it completely took me by surprise.

At first glance, the story seems like the glamorous life of a Hollywood star from the Golden Age, filled with romance, secrets, and scandals. But The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is so much more than that. It’s the portrait of an ambitious, strong, and determined woman fighting for her place in an industry dominated by men, while facing prejudice, sacrifice, and difficult choices in her pursuit of success and love.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is so much more than glamour and scandal—it’s a story of ambition, love, and the complexity of being a woman.

What I loved most about the book is how, despite being an engaging and easy read, it conveys deep reflections on self-worth, chasing dreams, the price of fame, and identity. Evelyn is a fascinating character, full of complexity, showing us that life is never just black and white and that every decision we make shapes us.

And I think that’s one of the reasons The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo had such a strong impact on me—because it’s part of a wave of novels written by women that authentically and unapologetically explore female experiences. Lately, I’ve noticed that the books I’ve been most drawn to are by female authors, and that’s no coincidence. It excites me to see so many women telling stories where female characters aren’t just sidekicks or love interests, but complex protagonists with their own desires, ambitions, and struggles.

Another reason this story is so powerful is the way it balances empowerment and vulnerability. Evelyn is a woman who takes control of her own destiny, unafraid to make sacrifices or break the rules to achieve her goals. But at the same time, she’s deeply human—she has fears, wounds, and moments of doubt. Her story shows us that strength doesn’t mean the absence of fragility, but rather the ability to keep going despite it. It’s an honest and unfiltered portrayal of what it means to be a woman in a world that so often imposes limits, expectations, and judgments.

So if you haven’t read this book yet, I highly recommend it. And if you’re looking for your next read, consider picking up a book by a female author. You might just be surprised by the incredible stories waiting to be discovered.