Picture an American storyteller who spun Cold War secrets and literary passion into a global sensation—meet Lara Prescott! Named after the iconic Lara from Boris Pasternak’s Doctor Zhivago, Prescott’s life seems destined for storytelling. Her debut novel, The Secrets We Kept, blends espionage, romance, and the power of literature, captivating readers worldwide with its thrilling narrative and historical depth.
From her roots in Pennsylvania to her rise as a literary star, Prescott’s journey is as compelling as her fiction. With a knack for uncovering hidden histories and a voice that resonates, she’s carved a unique space in historical fiction, proving that a well-told story can change the world.
The Making of Lara Prescott
Born and raised in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Lara Prescott grew up with a name inspired by her mother’s love for Doctor Zhivago. She studied political science at American University in Washington, D.C., and later worked as a political campaign consultant, crafting speeches and strategies for progressive politicians. This high-stakes world of influence and communication shaped her understanding of power dynamics, which later infused her writing. After years in politics, Prescott pivoted to her true passion, earning an MFA from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas, Austin, where she honed her craft and found her literary voice.
Lara Prescott’s Unforgettable Stories
Prescott’s debut, The Secrets We Kept (2019), is a tour de force of historical fiction. Set during the Cold War, it fictionalizes the CIA’s covert operation to smuggle Doctor Zhivago into the Soviet Union, where it was banned. The novel weaves the stories of female spies in Washington, D.C., with the poignant love story of Boris Pasternak and his muse, Olga Ivinskaya. Prescott’s vivid prose and meticulous research—spanning declassified CIA documents and trips to Moscow—bring this era to life. The book became an instant New York Times bestseller, a Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick, and has been translated into over 30 languages.
Her shorter works, like the story Small Practical Help, showcase her ability to craft intimate, emotionally resonant narratives. Prescott’s style blends sharp dialogue, rich historical detail, and a feminist lens, often highlighting women’s unsung roles in history. Her upcoming projects, though under wraps, promise to continue her exploration of hidden stories and complex characters, keeping readers eagerly awaiting her next move.
Why Lara Prescott Matters
Lara Prescott’s impact lies in her ability to make history feel urgent and personal. By spotlighting women who shaped global events—from CIA typists to Pasternak’s defiant muse—she challenges traditional narratives and celebrates the power of storytelling. Her work reminds us that literature can be a weapon, a refuge, and a catalyst for change. With The Secrets We Kept being adapted for television, Prescott’s influence is set to grow, inspiring new readers to explore the intersections of art and history.
- Born: Greensburg, Pennsylvania
- Key Work: The Secrets We Kept (2019)
- Awards: 2019 Writers’ League of Texas Book Award, 2020 Macavity Award for Best Historical Mystery
- Education: MFA, Michener Center for Writers, University of Texas
Ready to dive into a world of spies, romance, and literary rebellion? Grab The Secrets We Kept and discover Lara Prescott’s thrilling historical fiction today!