Did You Hear About Kitty Karr? by Crystal Smith Paul: A Novel

Henry Holt and Co. Paperback. NEW. In this captivating multigenerational saga, spanning the Jim Crow South, the golden era of Hollywood, and the allure of present-day showbiz, a family tree becomes divided into Black, white, and something in between. The unexpected demise of Kitty Karr Tate, a White silver screen icon, leads to a shocking revelation when her multimillion-dollar estate is bequeathed to the St. John sisters – three young, wealthy Black women. As the news breaks, numerous puzzling questions emerge, fueling speculation and curiosity. Elise St. John, a renowned celebrity in her own right, finds herself thrust into the spotlight as she navigates the responsibilities of handling Kitty's affairs and the relentless onslaught of media attention. However, an astonishing discovery within one of Kitty's journals sends shockwaves through Elise's world, surpassing any brewing scandal. Amidst the chaos of a cheating fiancé and the aftermath of a controversial social media post, the truth behind Kitty's rise to stardom from her humble beginnings in the segregated South threatens to unearth a complex network of familial connections, lingering debts, and potential unlawful activities that could shatter the St. John sisters' idyllic lives. With each unraveling thread, the quintessential American tapestry that binds them all together teeters precariously. As Elise delves deeper into Kitty's past, she soon realizes that she must also confront her own reflection in the mirror, questioning the choices she has made. The power of the deceased's secrets over the living becomes ever more apparent, prompting Elise to contemplate the profound impact of her own decisions. Through the lens of Kitty's life, Elise discovers the intertwining influences of family, race, and gender, offering a compelling exploration of the legacies passed down from generation to generation. The women in this enthralling story grapple with these inheritances, seeking liberation from their fraught constraints. Set against the backdrop of the unforgiving Hollywood machine, "Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?" encompasses a sweeping narrative that never fails to enthral its readers. It peels back the layers of society, providing a profound and nuanced examination of the intricate relationships between family, race, and gender – and the poignant choices individuals make to break free from their predetermined roles. As Elise immerses herself in Kitty's captivating journey, she discovers the power held within the secrets of the deceased, propelling her towards a greater understanding of herself and the legacies that bind her. In this sprawling tale, filled with intrigue and suspense, readers will be transported through time and space, experiencing the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood while unearthing the deep-rooted complexities of societal structures. "Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?" offers an illuminating exploration of the human spirit's resilience against the oppressive forces that seek to confine it – a testament to the enduring power of choice and the unwavering pursuit of personal liberation.