This stunning novel plunges into the tumultuous life of screen icon Katharine Hepburn, a star whose fierce independence, passionate spirit, and fluid sexuality shattered Hollywood’s rules and redefined what it meant to be a woman in film.
When young Katharine Hepburn loses her beloved brother, she makes two decisions: she will become famous, and she will never let anyone hurt her again. Leaving home to pursue an acting career, Kate is lured to Hollywood, accompanied by her lover, Laura.
Los Angeles in the early 1930s is a town full of secrets. Everyone comes with a story. Soon, she is scooped into the studio system and launched as a star—but stars must play by the rules and Kate, brilliant, bisexual, and fiercely independent, refuses to conform.
Surrounded by a legendary circle of intimates, including the powerful David and Irene Selznick, charming and romantically conflicted actor Cary Grant, ambitious director John Ford, and millionaire tycoon Howard Hughes, Kate navigates a web of sex, ambition, loyalty, and betrayal. As Kate’s career ascends, she faces an agonizing choice: be the star everyone wants her to be, or risk everything to become the woman she always was.
The author of New York Times Notable Book Vanessa and Her Sister has created a propulsive, emotionally charged novel exploring the cost of fame. With sharp prose and unforgettable characters, The Original is a story of love, aspiration, and the price of living authentically.
Priya Parmar is the author of The Original and Vanessa and Her Sister, a New York Times Notable Book, as well as co-author of the musical, Sylvia (London Old Vic), nominated for the Olivier Award for Best Original Musical. She believes in rescuing animals, veganism, protecting the ocean, and stories. She splits her time between Hawaii and Connecticut with her family and four rescue dogs. Learn more here.
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