Set against a backdrop of opulence and rivalry, this novel explores the intertwined lives of Doris Duke and Barbara Hutton, two wealthy socialites whose glamorous existences are marked by public competition and private connections. Through their contrasting personalities and experiences, the story delves into themes of friendship, jealousy, and the complexities of their social status, offering a captivating glimpse into the lives of these iconic figures.
On a Thursday morning in May 1961, a well-mannered twenty-one-year-old named Marlene interviews for the position of housekeeper and cook in the Fifth Avenue apartment of Lee Radziwill, the stylish wife of Prince Stanislaw Radziwill. Publicly known as Jackie Kennedy’s little sister, Lee is intelligent and creative, with ambitions beyond her glamorous lifestyle. As Marlene becomes a trusted presence in the Radziwill household, she witnesses the parade of famous figures who frequent Lee’s circle, including Gloria Vanderbilt, Rudolf Nureyev, and Truman Capote. At the height of his fame, Truman, who has a close bond with Lee, refers to her as his most unconventional swan. Both share the experience of feeling like second-best, and Truman uses his influence to help Lee pursue stardom. Their friendship deepens through significant events of the decade, including JFK’s assassination and the iconic Black and White Ball. However, Marlene, who aspires to be a writer under Truman's mentorship, begins to see his darker tendencies, particularly his habit of exploiting his friends’ lives for inspiration. Betrayals arise on both sides, threatening not only their friendship but also the illusion that wealth and fame can protect against heartbreak.
