From the New York Times bestselling author of The Swans of Fifth Avenue and The Aviator’s Wife, a “rich exploration of two Hollywood friends who shaped the movies” (USA Today)—screenwriter Frances Marion and superstar Mary Pickford “Full of Old Hollywood glamour and true details about the pair’s historic careers . . . a captivating ode to a legendary bond.”—Real Simple NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY REAL SIMPLE It is 1914, and twenty-five-year-old Frances Marion has left her (second) husband and her Northern California home for the lure of Los Angeles, where she is determined to live independently as an artist. But the word on everyone’s lips these days is “flickers”—the silent moving pictures enthralling theatergoers. Turn any corner in this burgeoning town and you’ll find made-up actors running around, as a movie camera captures it all. In this fledgling industry, Frances finds her true calling: writing stories for this wondrous new medium. She also makes the acquaintance of actress Mary Pickford, whose signature golden curls and lively spirit have earned her the title “America’s Sweetheart.” The two ambitious young women hit it off instantly, their kinship fomented by their mutual fever to create, to move audiences to a frenzy, to start a revolution. But their ambitions are challenged by both the men around them and the limitations imposed on their gender—and their astronomical success could come at a price. As Mary, the world’s highest paid and most beloved actress, struggles to live her life under the spotlight, she also wonders if it is possible to find love, even with the dashing actor Douglas Fairbanks. Frances, too, longs to share her life with someone. As in any good Hollywood story, dramas will play out, personalities will clash, and even the deepest friendships might be shattered. With cameos from such notables as Charlie Chaplin, Louis B. Mayer, Rudolph Valentino, and Lillian Gish, The Girls in the Picture is, at its heart, a story of friendship and forgiveness. Melanie Benjamin brilliantly captures the dawn of a glittering new era—its myths and icons, its possibilities and potential, and its seduction and heartbreak. “A boffo production . . . Inspiration is a rare and unexpected gift in a book filled with the fluff of Hollywood, but Benjamin provides it with The Girls in the Picture.”—NPR “Profoundly resonant, The Girls in the Picture is at its core, an empowering and fascinating tale of sisterhood.”—Bryce Dallas Howard

"A novel of the friendship and creative partnership between two of Hollywood's earliest female legends--screenwriter Frances Marion and superstar Mary Pickford"--

"The Moving Picture Girls at Rocky Ranch. Or, Great Days Among the Cowboys" by Laura Lee Hope. Published by Good Press. Good Press publishes a wide range of titles that encompasses every genre. From well-known classics & literary fiction and non-fiction to forgotten−or yet undiscovered gems−of world literature, we issue the books that need to be read. Each Good Press edition has been meticulously edited and formatted to boost readability for all e-readers and devices. Our goal is to produce eBooks that are user-friendly and accessible to everyone in a high-quality digital format.

"The Moving Picture Girls" by Laura Lee Hope is a delightful novel that follows the adventures of two young sisters, Ruth and Alice DeVere, as they pursue their dreams of becoming successful actresses in the world of silent films during the early 20th century. Ruth and Alice live in a small town but have big aspirations of stardom in the film industry. When their father, a widower, is offered a job as a motion picture director in New York City, the sisters see it as an opportunity to pursue their dreams. Excitedly, they move to the bustling city, where they are determined to make a name for themselves in the world of moving pictures. Upon arriving in New York, the girls quickly become involved in the film industry. Ruth works as a script girl, while Alice is cast as an extra in various films. They encounter a diverse cast of characters, from directors and producers to fellow actors, each with their unique personalities and challenges. The girls learn the ins and outs of the film business and gain valuable experience in front of and behind the camera. As they navigate the competitive world of Hollywood, the sisters face various obstacles, including rivalries with other actresses, demanding directors, and the pressures of fame. They also discover the importance of loyalty, friendship, and staying true to themselves amidst the glamour and glitz of the movie industry. Throughout the story, Ruth and Alice also encounter romance, with both sisters forming connections with young men they meet on set. These relationships add a touch of romance and intrigue to the narrative. As they rise in the ranks of the film world, Ruth and Alice are featured in leading roles and experience the excitement and challenges of stardom. However, they must also deal with the darker side of fame, such as intrusive media attention and the pressures of public expectations. Throughout "The Moving Picture Girls," Laura Lee Hope skillfully depicts the glamour and excitement of the silent film era, while also delving into the hard work and dedication required to succeed in the industry. The novel also explores themes of ambition, perseverance, and the power of following one's dreams. Readers will be captivated by the engaging plot, lovable characters, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the early days of Hollywood. "The Moving Picture Girls" is not only a delightful tale of sisterhood and adventure but also a fascinating glimpse into the golden age of silent films."

"The Moving Picture Girls Under the Palms" by Laura Lee Hope follows the thrilling adventures of Ruth and Alice DeVere, two talented sisters making a name for themselves in the world of silent films. In this installment, the DeVere sisters find themselves on a tropical paradise as they embark on a new film project. The allure of palm trees, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters sets the perfect stage for their latest motion picture. With the warm sun shining down on them, Ruth and Alice are excited to immerse themselves in their roles and bring the beauty of the exotic location to the silver screen. As the cameras start rolling, the girls work diligently with the film's cast and crew to capture the essence of the tropical setting. They encounter challenges unique to the environment, such as unpredictable weather, wildlife encounters, and logistical issues. However, their determination and passion for their craft drive them to overcome each obstacle with creativity and ingenuity. Amidst their professional endeavors, Ruth and Alice also find time for leisure and exploration. They embrace the local culture, savoring the delicious cuisine, learning about the customs of the island's inhabitants, and engaging in thrilling adventures like snorkeling and exploring hidden caves. As the days pass, the DeVere sisters forge new friendships and become deeply connected to the island and its people. Through these friendships, they gain insights into the lives and dreams of the locals, adding depth and authenticity to their film project. However, their island paradise adventure takes an unexpected turn when a powerful storm looms on the horizon. With their film equipment and set at risk, Ruth and Alice must once again summon their resourcefulness and determination to protect their work and ensure the safety of everyone involved. "The Moving Picture Girls Under the Palms" is a captivating tale of creativity, adventure, and the magic of filmmaking set against the backdrop of a tropical paradise. Laura Lee Hope masterfully weaves a story that celebrates the beauty of nature, the richness of diverse cultures, and the thrill of pursuing one's passion in an enchanting setting. Readers will be transported to the mesmerizing world of filmmaking and the allure of an exotic island as they join Ruth and Alice on their unforgettable journey. This delightful book captures the spirit of exploration, the joy of friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of challenges.

"The Moving Picture Girls; Or, First Appearances in Photo Dramas" by Laura Lee Hope. Published by Good Press. Good Press publishes a wide range of titles that encompasses every genre. From well-known classics & literary fiction and non-fiction to forgotten−or yet undiscovered gems−of world literature, we issue the books that need to be read. Each Good Press edition has been meticulously edited and formatted to boost readability for all e-readers and devices. Our goal is to produce eBooks that are user-friendly and accessible to everyone in a high-quality digital format.