The Secret Daughter, tells the true story of adoptee Nikki Carlson, whose search for her birth parents uncovers secrets that seem straight out of a fantasy novel.
Produced by the team behind Con Mum on Netflix and Wondery’s The Price of Paradise, Forest Sounds, this new Audible Original follows Nikki’s journey from the flat prairies of Minnesota to the heights of European aristocracy.
Adopted as a toddler into a big game hunting family in the American Midwest, Nikki grew up feeling unremarkable but always haunted by questions about her origins.
When she comes of age, she begins searching for her biological roots. What she discovers is stranger and more twisted than anything she could have imagined.
Her quest takes her first into the world of New York high society and then across the Atlantic, deep into old Italian aristocracy. Each step reveals a new piece of the puzzle, though people block her path at every turn.
The man believed to be her biological father is an Italian aristocrat known in European gossip columns, a man who once hosted Jackie Kennedy in Rome and was rumoured to have romanced Princess Margaret. In later life, he secretly lived with a much younger male partner.
Nikki’s story takes a tragic turn when she finally connects with him and learns he is terminally ill. As his life nears its end, a host of people emerge to claim their share of his estimated €20 million estate.
Suspicions arise about Nikki’s intentions, her sudden appearance, and whether she is truly his daughter or a manipulative outsider exploiting an old man at the end of his life.
Accusations of fraud and whispers of art theft soon emerge, and funeral arrangements are said to be used as a smokescreen to keep her away.
Tabloid photographers chase every twist, and lawyers line up on both sides of the Atlantic. Throughout, Nikki remains determined to uncover the truth about her identity, her father’s wishes, and where she really belongs.
The Secret Daughter is a true saga of deception, betrayal, high society scandal, and the universal search for identity.
The series is available now on Audible.
