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O! Jackie
O! Jackie explores the private life of Jackie Kennedy, her heartbreaking struggles, difficult relationships, and deep desire to end JFK's wandering ways. As a faithful wife devoted to an unfaithful husband, Jackie knew humiliation well. Living in the public eye intensified her disgrace. Through the years, Jack Kennedy's lustful escapades grew in carelessness and frquency. When his trysts with Marilyn Monroe threaten to become public, Jackie must decide how far she'll go to save the presidency and her marriage.
442 pages, Paperback
First published December 29, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 26, 2013
I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of a book tour in exchange for a fair and honest review. i rated it 4.5 out of 5 Stars:
I'll be honest, I wanted to read and review this book because I've never really understood this country's fascination and love for what many refer to as the "Camelot" period in American politics. I was born just months before the assassination of John F. Kennedy but I grew up hearing about "Jackie" and everything taking place in her life post "Jack". While O! Jackie by Mercedes King is a fictional retelling of Jackie's life and proposes several interesting "what ifs", it's Ms. King's voice as an author that captured my attention. Her voice, more than anything else gave me insight and provided me with understanding into why Jackie Kennedy is and will continue to be relevant to women. Ms. King's Jackie is a woman I could identify, sympathize and feel triumph with.
This story begins shortly after the death of Jackie Kennedy with her son John Jr. going through her belongings a couple of days before they were to be auctioned off. He and his sister, Caroline, had already chosen the items they wanted to keep for themselves but going through his mother's items a second time gave John a chance to spend a few more hours among his mother's things. When John discovers a locked case hidden under several other items, he forces the lock open to discover his mother's hidden journal. A journal telling the story of her life, her thoughts and all of the events which took place during her years in the White House.
Part confession, part reflection Jackie's journal contains insight into a marriage she never planned, a political life she didn't want and the family, her children, she desperately loved. Ms. King does an excellent job relating a Jackie few ever got to see; the real woman underneath who felt loneliness, sorrow, rejection and a lot of emotional pain but who managed to convey an outward appearance of contentment, grace and poise. A woman many truly admired.
We see Jack Kennedy for the man he was, an unfaithful husband who never apologized for his mistakes or betrayals. We see how Jackie is forced over, and over again to face his sexual weakness and take on his shame. While I have never understood a woman who stays with a cheater, or admired one, Ms. King's portrayal of Jackie shows us a woman who was taught that outward appearance, and keeping one's personal problems secret, was more important than life itself. We also meet Jack's family, a group of people Jackie would never really understand or learn to care for.
So what really happened during the Camelot years in the White House? And what or who was really behind Marilyn Monroe's death? Read O'Jackie to get an interesting take on what could have happened. I enjoyed it and hope Ms. King gives us more about Jackie's life after Jack's death.
I'll be honest, I wanted to read and review this book because I've never really understood this country's fascination and love for what many refer to as the "Camelot" period in American politics. I was born just months before the assassination of John F. Kennedy but I grew up hearing about "Jackie" and everything taking place in her life post "Jack". While O! Jackie by Mercedes King is a fictional retelling of Jackie's life and proposes several interesting "what ifs", it's Ms. King's voice as an author that captured my attention. Her voice, more than anything else gave me insight and provided me with understanding into why Jackie Kennedy is and will continue to be relevant to women. Ms. King's Jackie is a woman I could identify, sympathize and feel triumph with.
This story begins shortly after the death of Jackie Kennedy with her son John Jr. going through her belongings a couple of days before they were to be auctioned off. He and his sister, Caroline, had already chosen the items they wanted to keep for themselves but going through his mother's items a second time gave John a chance to spend a few more hours among his mother's things. When John discovers a locked case hidden under several other items, he forces the lock open to discover his mother's hidden journal. A journal telling the story of her life, her thoughts and all of the events which took place during her years in the White House.
Part confession, part reflection Jackie's journal contains insight into a marriage she never planned, a political life she didn't want and the family, her children, she desperately loved. Ms. King does an excellent job relating a Jackie few ever got to see; the real woman underneath who felt loneliness, sorrow, rejection and a lot of emotional pain but who managed to convey an outward appearance of contentment, grace and poise. A woman many truly admired.
We see Jack Kennedy for the man he was, an unfaithful husband who never apologized for his mistakes or betrayals. We see how Jackie is forced over, and over again to face his sexual weakness and take on his shame. While I have never understood a woman who stays with a cheater, or admired one, Ms. King's portrayal of Jackie shows us a woman who was taught that outward appearance, and keeping one's personal problems secret, was more important than life itself. We also meet Jack's family, a group of people Jackie would never really understand or learn to care for.
So what really happened during the Camelot years in the White House? And what or who was really behind Marilyn Monroe's death? Read O'Jackie to get an interesting take on what could have happened. I enjoyed it and hope Ms. King gives us more about Jackie's life after Jack's death.
October 20, 2013
"O! Jackie" by Mercedes King is fictional tale of a president, First Lady, and their complicated lives. This is a fictional account, loosely based on the lives of JFK and Jackie Kennedy. Loosely. A lot of it is true, but there is plenty of rumor, probably, maybe, coulda, shoulda, and what ifs to go around. I will treat this review as a review of a work of complete fiction to protect the innocent/guilty. I will review the writing rather than the research and/or daydreaming.
The first third of this book is basically one infidelity after another on the part of the husband. Though it is repeated by the wife that she "ultimately loves him" so she never leaves, the writer never says what there is to love about him. Usually when the man is in-your-face sleeping around he hands out a fair amount of romance and gifts to the wife to get back in her good graces. This husband does not. He just keeps doing it. Its almost as if part of the book is missing; it needs some reason to keep him. The second third of the book includes that. King turns on the charm and JFK becomes more complete while still doing his extra curricular activities. The couple as characters are much more developed and the plot is more interesting. Now when you start to get to the end, you may roll your eyes or think this is waaaay out in left field!" But keep in mind that it is fiction, and then story is riveting. This is sort of what you wish had happened. The first 1/3 needs more editing, but stick around and King won't disappoint. Just remember it is fiction! I received this book for free from the author through www.bookblogs.ning.com.
The first third of this book is basically one infidelity after another on the part of the husband. Though it is repeated by the wife that she "ultimately loves him" so she never leaves, the writer never says what there is to love about him. Usually when the man is in-your-face sleeping around he hands out a fair amount of romance and gifts to the wife to get back in her good graces. This husband does not. He just keeps doing it. Its almost as if part of the book is missing; it needs some reason to keep him. The second third of the book includes that. King turns on the charm and JFK becomes more complete while still doing his extra curricular activities. The couple as characters are much more developed and the plot is more interesting. Now when you start to get to the end, you may roll your eyes or think this is waaaay out in left field!" But keep in mind that it is fiction, and then story is riveting. This is sort of what you wish had happened. The first 1/3 needs more editing, but stick around and King won't disappoint. Just remember it is fiction! I received this book for free from the author through www.bookblogs.ning.com.
April 5, 2014
It is seldom that I can really lavish praise on a fellow writer in the way I'd like to with Mercedes King. The incredible style in which she has put together some astounding historical stories as seen through the eyes of its participants will have any reader mesmerized. Somehow, she has used accurate historical documents and research and combined that material with a passion for the characters themselves that allows them to live again. Reading these five related titles, four shorts and this novel, to progress through time with two of the most interesting and probably misunderstood people of all time is an eye opening experience. Imagine being in the room with the parents of a future President and one of the classiest first ladies America has known, while they "negotiate" the wedding plans. Or, just try to eavesdrop on a family discussion where the relationship with a blonde actress who was rumored to be a lover, is the object of attention. Being present for more than one near catastrophic situation only to confront another. Anyone who appreciates that history is about the people who make it must read this collection. My hat is off to you Ms. King for an outstanding addition to the stories, rumors, gossip and realities of this one of a kind couple who gave so much to our history.
February 21, 2013
Who hasn't been captivated by the mystique that was Camelot, and by the U.S.'s own royal family that is the Kennedy clan? Who hasn't wondered about the reality of the widespread rumors and inner workings of this famous family?
In O! Jackie, author Mercedes King weaves a captivating tale where history meets fiction in a "what if / what may have occurred" memoir of Jackie and John F. Kennedy's marriage. Written in the third person narrative, the reader is treated to a fascinating story of what could have been a realistic unfolding of the dramatic trials and tribulations that Jackie endured in her marriage to the infamous, much beloved, but very randy U.S. President John F. Kennedy. With journal entries, historical figures, factual events, and media headlines, the author has created a spellbinding story that evokes a gamut of emotions as the reader steps into Jackie's mind for a behind the scenes in-depth look into the awe-inspiring dynamic of America's most beloved political families. You can't help but feel for this most elegant and famous first lady, her endearing style and grace captivated a nation, while the traumatic ups and downs of her private life was played out in a very public way.
Since I was born in 1964, I missed the mystical time period that was Camelot. Both of my parents were admirers of the Kennedy clan, and I can remember them telling me about this magical time in the U.S., and about the hopes and dreams that the nation had during the JFK administration, and how it came to an untimely and tragic end in Dallas on that unforgettable day in November 1963. As I grew older I became interested in the history and lore of the Kennedy clan, especially Jackie. I was fascinated by this very private and gentile lady's life until her death, so when I saw there was an opportunity to participate in a virtual book tour event for this fictionalized story of her life, I knew I just had to join in, and I am oh so glad that I did. Author Mercedes King has created a wonderful story that has satisfied my own questions into what may have occurred in the Kennedy marriage and administration in a very realistic way. While we will never really know what went on behind the closed door of their marriage, or really know the Kennedy family secrets, this intriguing story will definitely peak your interest and keep you wondering "what if," while still maintaining the mystique that was Camelot.
O! Jackie is a riveting fictionalized story about the magical time period and the powerful political family that made up Camelot. This story is simply a must read!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Reading Addiction Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
In O! Jackie, author Mercedes King weaves a captivating tale where history meets fiction in a "what if / what may have occurred" memoir of Jackie and John F. Kennedy's marriage. Written in the third person narrative, the reader is treated to a fascinating story of what could have been a realistic unfolding of the dramatic trials and tribulations that Jackie endured in her marriage to the infamous, much beloved, but very randy U.S. President John F. Kennedy. With journal entries, historical figures, factual events, and media headlines, the author has created a spellbinding story that evokes a gamut of emotions as the reader steps into Jackie's mind for a behind the scenes in-depth look into the awe-inspiring dynamic of America's most beloved political families. You can't help but feel for this most elegant and famous first lady, her endearing style and grace captivated a nation, while the traumatic ups and downs of her private life was played out in a very public way.
Since I was born in 1964, I missed the mystical time period that was Camelot. Both of my parents were admirers of the Kennedy clan, and I can remember them telling me about this magical time in the U.S., and about the hopes and dreams that the nation had during the JFK administration, and how it came to an untimely and tragic end in Dallas on that unforgettable day in November 1963. As I grew older I became interested in the history and lore of the Kennedy clan, especially Jackie. I was fascinated by this very private and gentile lady's life until her death, so when I saw there was an opportunity to participate in a virtual book tour event for this fictionalized story of her life, I knew I just had to join in, and I am oh so glad that I did. Author Mercedes King has created a wonderful story that has satisfied my own questions into what may have occurred in the Kennedy marriage and administration in a very realistic way. While we will never really know what went on behind the closed door of their marriage, or really know the Kennedy family secrets, this intriguing story will definitely peak your interest and keep you wondering "what if," while still maintaining the mystique that was Camelot.
O! Jackie is a riveting fictionalized story about the magical time period and the powerful political family that made up Camelot. This story is simply a must read!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Reading Addiction Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
February 26, 2013
I love a good historical fiction book, and this indeed fits the bill in a big way. It is ironic--I started reading this about the same time my mom began reading O'Reilly's "Killing Kennedy." We continued to share stories back and forth, and even though this book is historical fiction, a good share of it can be supported factually or at least via the rumor mill. After reading this book, I believe that the Kennedy's no longer seem like the absolute "perfect" family any more. Don't get me wrong--I have known about JFK's affair with Marilyn Monroe and others for years. I have suspected for many years that Monroe was killed. But when it came to Jackie Kennedy, I really knew very little.
What I love about this book is that it is seen through the eyes of Mrs. Kennedy, and I believe that Mercedes King captured her personality, mannerisms, and the real "Jackie" in this fantastic book. It is hard to know what is real and what it merely rumor when it comes the Kennedys. So much has been covered up, and they are still the "favored" family of the U.S. They are probably the closest thing we have to royalty. This book caused to me to research a lot about this family, and I am beginning to realize just how complex everything is. The author herself calls the book fiction, and indeed it is. But it is rooted in a lot of historical fact.
Here's one of the best things about this book. There is hardly any profanity, and there are no bedroom scenes! In fact, this is the "cleanest" book I have read in a while. I appreciate that the author merely says the character cursed or let out a string of expletives. But she doesn't say what the words are! I can't tell you how much I appreciate this. This doesn't mean that the book should be read by those under 18. A mature 16-year-old probably could read it, but it does deal with adult issues. Most teens would probably not go for this book anyway. But if you want to read an incredibly readable book about America's most enigmatic and endearing couple, this is the book for you!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
What I love about this book is that it is seen through the eyes of Mrs. Kennedy, and I believe that Mercedes King captured her personality, mannerisms, and the real "Jackie" in this fantastic book. It is hard to know what is real and what it merely rumor when it comes the Kennedys. So much has been covered up, and they are still the "favored" family of the U.S. They are probably the closest thing we have to royalty. This book caused to me to research a lot about this family, and I am beginning to realize just how complex everything is. The author herself calls the book fiction, and indeed it is. But it is rooted in a lot of historical fact.
Here's one of the best things about this book. There is hardly any profanity, and there are no bedroom scenes! In fact, this is the "cleanest" book I have read in a while. I appreciate that the author merely says the character cursed or let out a string of expletives. But she doesn't say what the words are! I can't tell you how much I appreciate this. This doesn't mean that the book should be read by those under 18. A mature 16-year-old probably could read it, but it does deal with adult issues. Most teens would probably not go for this book anyway. But if you want to read an incredibly readable book about America's most enigmatic and endearing couple, this is the book for you!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
January 16, 2016
REVIEW
This book is about the Kennedy family. The author gives some information about all of them. The main part of the book is about Jackie, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. She married into the Kennedy family. She had to have been a strong woman overall. She was a fashion icon, a First Lady, a mother and a wife.She was in a marriage that she was expected to remain in. Her own family and Joe Kennedy expected it, demanded it. What Joe Kennedy wanted, Joe Kennedy got. Jackie held her pain inside so to the public she looked like she was happily married, the perfect First Lady, to John Kennedy. She had to bear her husband's infidelities, miscarriages and the Kennedy men to put up. The Kennedy women weren't any better. They "played" on her pain. Aristotle Onassis was the only one who seemed to genuinely care about her. The author ended the story in 1962 before the assassination in 1963. The author did a wonderful job of telling of the life of Jackie. Sometimes you weren't sure whether it was true or fiction. The book kept me riveted to my chair, not wanting to put it down. Sometimes I just wanted Jackie to leave her less than perfect husband. Tell the whole Kennedy clan and their "Camelot" to go to. I in a way do understand though. There was so much pressure, not only being the First Lady but there was the Kennedy pressure. She was trying to keep the public from finding out about her husband and his affairs. Ms. King had me feeling the pain and the humiliation. I was sad for her. The pain she must have been feeling for so long. I found the ending was quite surprising. I hadn't expected it at all. I would recommend this book to anyone. Ms. King wrote a very good book about Jackie and Camelot.
OH! JACKIE
WHAT IF?
I would give this book a solid 5 stars.
I was given a complimentary copy of O! JACKIE from the author, Mercedes King for this honest review.
This book is about the Kennedy family. The author gives some information about all of them. The main part of the book is about Jackie, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. She married into the Kennedy family. She had to have been a strong woman overall. She was a fashion icon, a First Lady, a mother and a wife.She was in a marriage that she was expected to remain in. Her own family and Joe Kennedy expected it, demanded it. What Joe Kennedy wanted, Joe Kennedy got. Jackie held her pain inside so to the public she looked like she was happily married, the perfect First Lady, to John Kennedy. She had to bear her husband's infidelities, miscarriages and the Kennedy men to put up. The Kennedy women weren't any better. They "played" on her pain. Aristotle Onassis was the only one who seemed to genuinely care about her. The author ended the story in 1962 before the assassination in 1963. The author did a wonderful job of telling of the life of Jackie. Sometimes you weren't sure whether it was true or fiction. The book kept me riveted to my chair, not wanting to put it down. Sometimes I just wanted Jackie to leave her less than perfect husband. Tell the whole Kennedy clan and their "Camelot" to go to. I in a way do understand though. There was so much pressure, not only being the First Lady but there was the Kennedy pressure. She was trying to keep the public from finding out about her husband and his affairs. Ms. King had me feeling the pain and the humiliation. I was sad for her. The pain she must have been feeling for so long. I found the ending was quite surprising. I hadn't expected it at all. I would recommend this book to anyone. Ms. King wrote a very good book about Jackie and Camelot.
OH! JACKIE
WHAT IF?
I would give this book a solid 5 stars.
I was given a complimentary copy of O! JACKIE from the author, Mercedes King for this honest review.
February 6, 2013
Imagine Jackie Kennedy telling you the story of her life with Jack. You see Camelot through Jackie's eyes. You live out all her hopes, her fears and her dreams. Reality and fiction meet.
I absolutely couldn't put this book down once I started it. I was captivated.
We all know that her marriage to JFK wasn't all that it was cracked up to be. As I read, I almost felt their marriage might have been a bit like Charles and Diana's, only in Jackie's case there was more than one women with her husband.
Marilyn Monroe plays a huge part in the book, but she's not really a character at least not until the end.
This book is one of those novels that instantly makes you want to learn more. If you don't know much about Jackie O, when you finish reading this you'll want to devour every book you can find on her.
Well, I do.
She's more than just a first lady, she's an icon and a symbol of a generation. Mercedes, humanized her, in this book. She brought that time period to life superbly. Plus she added the fictional touch to history. What if she played a part in Marilyn's death. Now that was something I didn't really see coming.
What I really loved about this book was the journal parts that really felt like the fictional Jackie was sharing her life with the world, or at least the reader of the book.
The only flaw I found was her naming Lee's first husband as Cass Canfield, at the beginning of the book when it was actually Michael. Lee, being Jackie's sister.
Other than that, this book was a fantastic read, one you won't forget after reading, but then again, who can forget The Kennedys?
I absolutely couldn't put this book down once I started it. I was captivated.
We all know that her marriage to JFK wasn't all that it was cracked up to be. As I read, I almost felt their marriage might have been a bit like Charles and Diana's, only in Jackie's case there was more than one women with her husband.
Marilyn Monroe plays a huge part in the book, but she's not really a character at least not until the end.
This book is one of those novels that instantly makes you want to learn more. If you don't know much about Jackie O, when you finish reading this you'll want to devour every book you can find on her.
Well, I do.
She's more than just a first lady, she's an icon and a symbol of a generation. Mercedes, humanized her, in this book. She brought that time period to life superbly. Plus she added the fictional touch to history. What if she played a part in Marilyn's death. Now that was something I didn't really see coming.
What I really loved about this book was the journal parts that really felt like the fictional Jackie was sharing her life with the world, or at least the reader of the book.
The only flaw I found was her naming Lee's first husband as Cass Canfield, at the beginning of the book when it was actually Michael. Lee, being Jackie's sister.
Other than that, this book was a fantastic read, one you won't forget after reading, but then again, who can forget The Kennedys?
February 10, 2013
Wow. What a book!! Who doesn't want to know what REALLY happened in Camelot? This book is a work of fiction but it certainly opens our eyes to many different possibilities. I can't say I liked many of the characters in this book. Jackie herself was a pushover who put up with too much garbage from a womanizing jerk (and that's being kind to her less than honorable husband) but she was portrayed as a human woman, not an iconic figure. We saw her flaws, we felt her pain, I cried with her and yelled at her. I didn't care for Bobby or Marilyn, I despised Ethel. She was just a plain old b**ch. I have to say, the nicest character in this book was Aristotle Onassis.
Bear in mind, this is a WHAT IF? novel. This is a wonderfully written novel about one viewpoint of what 'may have' happened in the unfortunate marriage of Jack and Jackie Kennedy.
Make certain you have a lot of time when you start to read this book. You will not want to put it down until you finish!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
Bear in mind, this is a WHAT IF? novel. This is a wonderfully written novel about one viewpoint of what 'may have' happened in the unfortunate marriage of Jack and Jackie Kennedy.
Make certain you have a lot of time when you start to read this book. You will not want to put it down until you finish!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
February 7, 2013
For Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, marriage was no Age of Camelot. Notorious for his womanizing, Jack Kennedy's frequent indiscretions and thoughtlessness caused Jackie great distress. When his affair with Marilyn Monroe gets out of hand and threatens to damage his Presidency, Jackie makes a monumental decision.
If I were to assign this novel a genre, it would have to be historical fiction/suspense. The author has taken a "what if?" situation, and turned out a spellbinding story filled with historical figures and factual events. Although a fictional memoir, it is still a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at a famous family.
Recommended for teenagers and up.
5 stars
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
If I were to assign this novel a genre, it would have to be historical fiction/suspense. The author has taken a "what if?" situation, and turned out a spellbinding story filled with historical figures and factual events. Although a fictional memoir, it is still a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at a famous family.
Recommended for teenagers and up.
5 stars
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
February 7, 2013
Having read extensively about the Kennedys, this book felt more like a review primer to me, but I did appreciate the humanizing of the cultural icons, and helping the reader feel what Jackie must have with the constant affairs and heartache. How she adapted to the Kennedy clan and their patriarch was also an interesting touch. The book alternates between narrative and Jackie's journal that her son 'finds' after her death, and reads to the reader. This was a great idea, as it made the book more personal.The mystery for the reader is trying to figure out what actually happened, and what is fiction. I have to admit I smiled at a certain 'comeuppance' event, and hoped for Jackie's sake that it did happen! As to the ending, I actually had hoped the author would take it further and into her relationship with Onassis. Perhaps that will be a second book? It was a quick and interesting read, and if you liek the 'Camelot' lore, you'll devour this book!
February 27, 2013
I have always been fascinated with the Kennedy family so this book was a perfect read for me. In this novel the author tells the story of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, a First Lady, a fashion icon, a mother and a wife. Outwardly she was the perfect wife and perfect first lady. Inwardly she had her own demons, the heartbreak of miscarriages, the humiliation of her husbands infidelities and the lack of privacy that comes when your life is in the public eye. The story ends in 1962, and we all know what happened in 1963 so I was pleased that the author ended the story where she did.
I think Ms. King did a wonderful job in telling Jackie's story in a "what if" premise with a surprise ending that I didn't see coming. I really enjoyed this novel and I think that anyone interested in the Kennedy's and Jackie in particular will find this fictionalized version of events an interesting read.
I think Ms. King did a wonderful job in telling Jackie's story in a "what if" premise with a surprise ending that I didn't see coming. I really enjoyed this novel and I think that anyone interested in the Kennedy's and Jackie in particular will find this fictionalized version of events an interesting read.
April 18, 2014
Didn't see that coming
Recently I've become interested in the whole JFK/Jackie O/Marilyn Monroe "love triangle" (if there even was one, I'm a sucker for a good conspiracy theory) so I decided to give this book a go. I read the author's other short stories on the couple and thought they were pretty decent but this one....this one was really good. I enjoyed the facts mixed with fiction giving me a whole different perspective of the "affair" and how it effected the first lady. And the ending provided a nice twist I never thought of.
Recently I've become interested in the whole JFK/Jackie O/Marilyn Monroe "love triangle" (if there even was one, I'm a sucker for a good conspiracy theory) so I decided to give this book a go. I read the author's other short stories on the couple and thought they were pretty decent but this one....this one was really good. I enjoyed the facts mixed with fiction giving me a whole different perspective of the "affair" and how it effected the first lady. And the ending provided a nice twist I never thought of.
February 11, 2013
This was one book I couldn't wait to read once I got it and WOW I wasn't disappointed! Mercedes pens her plot realistic with her characters that come to life and emotional. Even though it is a book of fiction, you can't help but wonder if it could be true. I total must read that I highly recommend!
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
March 18, 2014
Very interesting read.
I found myself having a hard time remembering at times that this was fictional. one must wonder if there at least some half truths there.
I found myself having a hard time remembering at times that this was fictional. one must wonder if there at least some half truths there.
August 4, 2021
This tawdry book was disrespectful to Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Marilyn Monroe, Bobby and Ethel Kennedy, and almost everyone else involved with the Kennedy clan. Jackie and Marilyn having a cat fight in a fountain? Give me a break. If the author wanted to write so many falsehoods, she should have written fictional characters (a la Curtis Sittenfeld). I can’t believe I paid money for this.
July 26, 2017
Did write another review but revised it. One of the biggest pieces of garbage I have read in decades So ludicrous I just want others to steer clear of this book.
July 26, 2017
I rather enjoyed the "it could have happened this way" but found the scene between Jackie, Bobby and Frank absurd. Other than that one bit of flight of fancy this was a good summer read for a couple of rainy days in July. The writing flowed but it was fluffy. Easy read that does not need deep thought.
Update -- A real piece of trash. Does not need thought to toss!
Update -- A real piece of trash. Does not need thought to toss!
April 6, 2013
I loved reading this book although it very often made me quite sad. Yes the book is a novel and yes it is classified as fiction but so much of what is written is actually true making it difficult to determine just what is true and what isn't. I have so much JFK memorabilia in my house from when my grandmother passed away - he was not only a president but also an icon. He died before I was born so I have to wonder how much the public really knew about he and the Kennedy clan. Of course he is not the only president who has not had the most appropriate relationships. But this book is more about Jackie. She exhibited such grace even under the worst of circumstances. I still have almost as many questions as I did before I read this book but I feel a much more personal connection to events that occurred before I was born.
This book isn't just about Jack Kennedy. There is a fair amount of coverage of the entire Kennedy clan and just what made them all tick. How do you survive as someone married into that family? How do you survive as someone who is born into that family. Jackie was able to hide her pain and her shame from the public. She was pretty close to "forced" to remain in the marriage - what choice did she have? It was an expectation of not only her family but also of Joe Kennedy. And Joe always got what he wanted. And the Kennedy women were just not very nice at all. They played games with Jackie's pain - they all did. The only person who seemed to genuinely care for Jackie and her well-being was Aristotle Onassis. The person I disliked the most was definitely Ethel - even more than Jack Kennedy.
If you have any interest in Camelot, I highly recommend reading this book.
I received a copy of this book directly from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book isn't just about Jack Kennedy. There is a fair amount of coverage of the entire Kennedy clan and just what made them all tick. How do you survive as someone married into that family? How do you survive as someone who is born into that family. Jackie was able to hide her pain and her shame from the public. She was pretty close to "forced" to remain in the marriage - what choice did she have? It was an expectation of not only her family but also of Joe Kennedy. And Joe always got what he wanted. And the Kennedy women were just not very nice at all. They played games with Jackie's pain - they all did. The only person who seemed to genuinely care for Jackie and her well-being was Aristotle Onassis. The person I disliked the most was definitely Ethel - even more than Jack Kennedy.
If you have any interest in Camelot, I highly recommend reading this book.
I received a copy of this book directly from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2013
I really liked this book, and couldn't put it down. What I liked most was that the author focused mostly on how Jackie O dealt with her husband's infidelities. Although it's a work of fiction, you know that some parts must have been true, in how Jackie felt being a Kennedy and being married to a man like JFK. I also loved that the author incorporated journal writings of Jackie, that her son found in the beginning.
I gave this book four stars instead of five because I didn't care for the ending. It was a complete surprise (sort of), and was just so different from how Jackie was portrayed throughout the rest of the book. Again, I know this is a work of fiction, but it didn't sit well with me. The other thing that bothered me (annoyed, really) was the amount of questioning the author did throughout the writing. I notice some authors do this and it seems like an unnecessary filler. I tended to skip over paragraphs because there would be whole paragraphs of questions Jackie was asking herself. Some people may not mind this though.
Despite those two things, I would recommend this book -- absolutely a great read.
I gave this book four stars instead of five because I didn't care for the ending. It was a complete surprise (sort of), and was just so different from how Jackie was portrayed throughout the rest of the book. Again, I know this is a work of fiction, but it didn't sit well with me. The other thing that bothered me (annoyed, really) was the amount of questioning the author did throughout the writing. I notice some authors do this and it seems like an unnecessary filler. I tended to skip over paragraphs because there would be whole paragraphs of questions Jackie was asking herself. Some people may not mind this though.
Despite those two things, I would recommend this book -- absolutely a great read.
April 7, 2016
I LOVED THIS BOOK! Mercedes King is a genius! I read this book cover to cover and it was phenomenal. I loved every element of this story. I love the Kennedys and I love to read books on their lives (fiction and nonfiction) and this became one of my top ten books immediately. This is a definite recommendation to anyone who loves historical fiction, the Kennedys, or books in general! I loved this book so much! Well done!
January 1, 2015
Interesting perspective. Couldn't put it down. I don't trust ANY autobiography or history books because authors have their own agenda. If the subject wants to authorize their story, the story will slant to their favor. Unauthorized...may be exaggerated to increase sales. My only issue is that I didn't see where the author said outright that this was fiction, so, you might be fooled. I enjoyed this.
August 9, 2016
Feeling cheated.
I bought this book with the understanding that it was a factual story. I was shocked when I read things that couldn't possibly be true. Imagine my surprise when i read the authors note at the end saying it was a work of fiction!
I bought this book with the understanding that it was a factual story. I was shocked when I read things that couldn't possibly be true. Imagine my surprise when i read the authors note at the end saying it was a work of fiction!
January 2, 2013
You may think you know Jackie Kennedy, but wait until you read this. A very private glimpse at everyone's favorite first lady.
January 16, 2014
Awesome book! Check out my view at Lifeofareaderblog.wordpress.com
January 12, 2015
Recommended by a friend & gifted by another.. the story line is thoroughly captivating..Luvd reading the book. Charm of Jackie doesn't seem to cease..Awesome Book..!!
March 19, 2015
This was wishful thinking at best!
Read
June 6, 2015Quite possibly the dumbest book I have ever read in my entire existence. How many stars? Maybe minus ten.
September 8, 2014
she is stunner !! and JFK was lucky
May 20, 2016
I absolutely loved this book. I could not put it down.
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