Saoirse Ronan to Star in Film Adaptation of 'The Host' From 'Twilight' Author Stephenie Meyer

The long awaited film adaptation of "Twilight" author Stephenie Meyer's novel "The Host" has a lead female star.

Deadline is reporting that Oscar-nominated actress Saoirse Ronan, who most recently starred in the thriller "Hanna," has been cast in the film's lead role as Melanie Stryder.

For a long time, Meyer turned down offers for the rights to the film. Two years ago she finally came to an agreement with producers Nick Wechsler and Steve and Paula Mae Schwart.

The author wanted to be heavily involved in the screenplay and adaptation and, along with writer Andrew Niccol, she has been.

Next week, independent production company Inferno, who is funding the film with its producers, will launch sales of the movie at Cannes.

The storyline follows Melanie Stryder, one of the last humans on Earth, who must fight an alien species called Souls. The alien parasites invade human bodies and erase their personalities.

The novel has a huge fanbase, and with the "Twilight" film series coming to an end this year, it seems the perfect time for another science fiction thriller from Meyer to hit the big screen.

Also rumored to be included in the cast is Jack Samuel. The film is currently scheduled for a 2012 release.