She longed for love and an unconventional life…but never dreamed what it would cost her. After a year in Paris, Jacqueline Bouvier returns home to her family in Mclean, Virginia. Changes and new opportunities abound, including a dinner invite from good friends, anxious to introduce her to Congressman John F. Kennedy. Though she’s curious, Jackie is certain she couldn’t be a match for a boring politician—until she meets him. Chemistry sparks between them, but both Jackie and Jack, as he is known, are slow to develop the relationship. Months lapse before they see each other again. When she and Jack reconnect, their misgivings about marriage are apparent. However, Jack’s determined to advance his career—with aspirations to run for president—but he knows his hopes for a White House bid are slim without a wife by his side. Jackie’s intrigued, despite her aversion to some of his family members and the constant warnings from friends about Jack’s womanizing ways. She convinces herself that her love and devotion will change him, although marrying Jack means being steeped in politics and sacrifices to her privacy.

Tragedy and heartache mar the early years of their union—and sacred vows fail to cure Jack’s penchant for infidelity. Entrenched in doubts and depression, Jackie contemplates divorce. Parenthood becomes their saving grace, though, and when Jack’s chance to serve in the Oval Office comes within reach, Jackie dares to believe their difficult times are behind them. She refuses to fit the traditional first lady mold but captivates the world with her iconic fashion sense and overhaul of entertaining at the grand mansion. Behind closed doors, she struggles with self-worth as Jack becomes increasingly careless in his dalliances. When his romp with a famous actress threatens to topple the presidency and to ruin her marriage, Jackie takes matters into her own hands, determined to protect her family—and Jack’s image—regardless of the consequences.