Becky Armstrong Shifts to Fiction
Fans noted Becky Armstrong's shift to fiction, reading *The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo* — her first novel after sticking to non-fiction self-help books. Another post joked about her picking that specific steamy novel for her fiction debut.
*The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo*, penned by Taylor Jenkins Reid, delves into the life of a fictional Old Hollywood movie star, Evelyn Hugo, who decides to give a final, tell-all interview to an unknown journalist. The novel, published in 2017, explores themes of love, identity, and the high cost of fame. The narrative structure follows Evelyn's recounting of her life, with each of her seven marriages representing a different chapter and revealing new layers of her ambition and struggles. The story is known for its exploration of the contrast between a public persona and private reality, a theme that resonates throughout the glamorous and often tumultuous setting of golden-age Hollywood. A significant aspect of the novel, and a reason for its "steamy" reputation, is its candid exploration of sexuality and desire. A central and defining relationship in Evelyn's life is her love for another woman, Celia St. James, which she must keep hidden from the public eye. This exploration of a queer relationship in a historical context has been a major factor in the book's immense popularity, particularly on platforms like TikTok. While a departure from her usual non-fiction, the novel's protagonist aligns with Armstrong's stated interest in strong female characters who are ambitious and unapologetic. Evelyn Hugo is portrayed as a complex and morally ambiguous character who uses her beauty and sexuality as tools for power in a patriarchal society. The book has been praised for its compelling and emotionally resonant storytelling, with many readers connecting deeply with Evelyn's journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Its success has made it a staple in book clubs and a frequent topic of online discussion.
