Ask Not

From the acclaimed author and New York Times bestseller Maureen Callahan comes a powerful examination of the true curse of the Kennedy family—an enduring legacy of misogyny, violence, and chaos. "Ask Not" uncovers the devastating impact this has had on the women associated with them, challenging the idealized image of Camelot. While the Kennedy name is often linked with affluence, influence, and a strong moral compass, underneath lies a sinister reality. For generations, Kennedy men have been associated with the mistreatment and psychological torment of women, part of a deep-rooted culture of toxic masculinity that has left numerous lives in ruin. Despite numerous scandals, the family has adeptly shielded this unsettling narrative from public awareness. In "Ask Not," journalist Maureen Callahan shines a light on this concealed history of maltreatment, placing women back in the heart of the Kennedy saga. The book highlights stories of figures like Jacqueline Onassis, Marilyn Monroe, and Carolyn Bessette, as well as lesser-known women like Mary Richardson and Rosemary Kennedy, who also played crucial roles in this narrative. With writing that crackles with intensity, Callahan offers a long-overdue confrontation with the storied American family, revealing how their formidable political influence has protected predators and silenced many abused women. Finally, Callahan brings overdue attention to these women, honoring those who escaped the family's grip and amplifying the voices of those who could not.