Fashion Icon Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy: A Life Shrouded in Mystery

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, a fashion icon known for her striking style and enigmatic presence, is the subject of renewed interest following the release of Maureen Callahan's book, *Ask Not: The Kennedys and the Women They Destroyed*. The book delves into the tumultuous history of the Kennedy family, highlighting the darker aspects of their legacy, while Bessette-Kennedy's story remains largely untold. With only two known recordings of her voice, her life is often viewed through the lens of her marriage to John F. Kennedy Jr., amplifying her mystique. Friends of JFK Jr. describe Bessette-Kennedy as a captivating figure who transitioned from a private life to one under the relentless scrutiny of the media. Robbie Littell, a close friend, reflects on her enigmatic nature, while others note the challenges she faced as her fame grew. The couple's relationship was marked by tension, with Bessette-Kennedy grappling with the pressures of public life and the impact of tabloid culture on their marriage. As their relationship evolved, Bessette-Kennedy's struggles became more pronounced. Callahan suggests that by the time of their tragic deaths, the couple was contemplating divorce, revealing the complexities of their partnership. The author posits that Bessette-Kennedy tolerated Kennedy's flaws due to her own ambitions, painting a picture of a woman caught between love and self-preservation. *Ask Not: The Kennedys and the Women They Destroyed* offers a provocative exploration of the Kennedy legacy, with Bessette-Kennedy's story serving as a poignant reminder of the personal battles faced by those in the public eye.