Hollywood Husbands

As in Hollywood Wives, Collins (Lucky colorfully depicts the brash hedonists of Tinseltown, most of whom are motivated by avarice, lust and conceit. The central trio in this lengthy saga consists of movie star Mannon Cable, studio executive Howard Soloman and TV talk-show host Jack Python. Although Mannon has married compliant young Melanie-Shanna, he vows to win back his ex-wife, Whitney. Cocaine addict Howard pursues Whitney though he is wed to a gossipy society gadabout. Jack courts an illustrious actress, but he becomes infatuated with Jade Johnson, a willowy, self-possessed model. Jack's sister, imperious soap-opera star Silver Anderson, doesn't know that her lover is desperately trying to extricate himself from a potentially lethal business deal. While these escapades unfold, we must guess which female was a sexually abused arsonist in the 1970s. Collins's devotees will probably relish the snappy dialogue, whirlwind pacing, irreverent humor and opulent locales that are her trademarks. Others will find, however, that this book's cliched characters and repetitive plot soon grow tiresome. Major ad/promo; paperback rights to Pocket Books; author tour. (October 15)