First published 2018
Frances Marion abandons her marriage and Northern California life in 1914, drawn to Los Angeles with dreams of artistic independence. At twenty-five, she discovers her calling writing stories for the new medium of silent films. She befriends Mary Pickford, the golden-curled actress known as America's Sweetheart and the world's highest-paid performer. The two women share an instant connection, united by their drive to create and move audiences. They face obstacles from the men in their industry and the constraints placed on women of their era. Mary navigates life in the spotlight while pursuing romance with actor Douglas Fairbanks. Frances also seeks personal connection alongside professional success. Their friendship weathers the clashes and dramas typical of Hollywood stories. The novel features appearances by Charlie Chaplin, Louis B. Mayer, Rudolph Valentino, and Lillian Gish as it explores the early days of the film industry.
Genres: drama, literary-fiction, american-fiction, historical-fiction, 20th-century, biographical-fiction
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, strong-female-lead
Setting: California, Los Angeles, Northern California
Period: 1914
448 pages · Hardcover · Delacorte Press