| Title | : | And They Called It Camelot: A Novel of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0451490924 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780451490926 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 448 |
| Publication | : | First published March 10, 2020 |
Few of us can claim to be the authors of our fate. Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy knows no other choice. With the eyes of the world watching, Jackie uses her effortless charm and keen intelligence to carve a place for herself among the men of history and weave a fairy tale for the American people, embodying a senator’s wife, a devoted mother, a First Lady—a queen in her own right.
But all reigns must come to an end. Once JFK travels to Dallas and the clock ticks down those thousand days of magic in Camelot, Jackie is forced to pick up the ruined fragments of her life and forge herself into a new identity that is all her own, that of an American legend.
And They Called It Camelot: A Novel of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis Reviews
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As a lover of biographies and historical fiction I was lured into reading this wonderful book about Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis. This offering was the perfect vehicle for me to get to "know" this iconic character in America's history, because of the style in which it was written; for you see, Jackie narrates her life story. The author set the perfect tone in breathing life into the character of Jackie Kennedy, as I really felt as though she was speaking to me. Of course I was always intrigued by the glaring features of her life that everybody knows, such as the horrific scene of her sitting next to her husband President John F. Kennedy the moment he was assassinated by bullet. I also knew that she went on to marry a Greek millionaire, Aristotle Onassis, because she wanted to keep her beloved children Caroline and John Jr. safe following the assassination of her brother-in-law Robert Kennedy. On the heels of this unspeakable tragedy, she felt like it wasn't safe living in America as a Kennedy. I also knew that Jackie spearheaded the huge project of restoring the White House to its historical origins, as it had been sorely neglected. As a matter of fact, I happen to own a vintage book from 1968 called
The White House: An Historic Guide that was issued following this restoration. Jackie also allowed herself to be interviewed for national broadcast while she guided the viewers throughout the restored White House rooms, explaining their historical significance. I also knew that she and her husband President Kennedy endured the unbelievable heartache of losing three babies out of her five pregnancies. The last one, Patrick, was born just a few months before President Kennedy was assassinated, and lived only 48 hours. So I already new the basics, but what I learned here in the pages of this book left me with a profound admiration for Jackie's intelligence, good instincts, diplomatic and literary talents, but most of all...her fierce inner strength.
The book begins just prior to her meeting John F. Kennedy and ends shortly after the death of 2nd husband Aristotle Onassis. An extremely poignant part of the book is when Jackie and her children are invited back to the White House by First Lady Pat Nixon to witness the hanging of her and her husband's official painted portraits. She realizes that those just 1,036 days in The White House were the happiest of her life. This is a book to be savored and enjoyed for all the little tidbits included that repeatedly caused me to google images. White House dogs, designer gowns, gifted jewelry, etc., were lifted right out of history- this author researched well. I don't feel I can adequately convey how much I enjoyed reading this book other than to say that it filled in a lot of blanks to the core information most people like myself already knew. I was absolutely riveted by her vivid and detailed recounting of President Kennedy's assassination, through the autopsy, swearing in of Lyndon B. Johnson as President of the United States, and her husband's funeral. I am now inspired to read other biographies of this extraordinary woman.
Thank you to Berkley / Penguin Publishing Group for providing an advance reader copy via Edelweiss. -
A fairytale or a nightmare? Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis one of the best known women of the 20th century. A classy woman who lived a complex occasionally tragic life. Stephanie Marie Thornton has masterfully crafted this exceptional fictional biography. The book spans Jackie’s life from the time she first meets Jack two 1979 and the dedication of the JFK library. The story is told in first person from Jackie’s perspective really giving the reader an intimate look into her life. Prior to reading this book I didn’t know that much about Jackie’s life other than the obvious. This story really made me realize what a smart, savvy, strong, industrious, loving, caring, Woman/mother she was. I especially appreciated her Love of books and writing. I admired her strength and her composure in times of tragedy. As well as her dedication to her children, she really was an exceptional mother.
The book was extremely well researched. I’d encourage you to read the author’s note at the end because it does touch on some liberties that Thornton took. The story made me contemplate how some of the actions of the Kennedy brothers in particular would go over now in the time of social media. Another thing that I never realized before was how young John and Jackie Kennedy were. I do realize this was a fictional book based on history, but I thought it really gave me an accurate and compassionate peek into Jackie Kennedy‘s life. I definitely have a new respect for her, not how she dressed but how she conducted herself.
This book in emojis 👩👧👦 👒 ✍🏻 📰 🇺🇸
*** Big thank you to Berkley for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. *** -
Who doesn’t love reading a book about beloved Jackie O? ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Some might say Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy chased her fate and found a fairy tale, at least for a time. A senator’s wife, a doting mother, and a First Lady with the world watching and being inspired by everything from her manners to her clothing.
The fairy tale ends in tragedy, as we all know. Jackie reinvents herself and does her best to create a new kind of fairy tale.
I adored this intimate look into Jackie Kennedy’s life. This glimpse inside offers a different perspective, perhaps shaking up a little of how we all thought we “knew” her. Jackie was as inordinately human as all of us. She had fear and doubt and a fierce love for her family above all else.
Writing from Jackie’s perspective, while I always recognized this was a fictional account, I could sense the immense research that was done to capture Jackie this way. Part of the ingenuity in this book is the way it all unfolds so I’m holding back on giving too many details. I will simply offer this will stand as one of my favorite historical fiction novels this year. The voice is refreshing and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was captured with as much grace and humanity as all Americans have bestowed upon her.
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog:
www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram:
www.instagram.com/tarheelreader -
Read for a cover quote, and will definitely be giving one! This is the book club pick of the year. Thornton brings an American icon to life: Jackie the debutante, the First Lady, the survivor who at last becomes the heroine of her own story.
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Absolutely brilliant! I confess that I thought I knew Jackie O’s story... wife to JFK, First Lady, wife to Onassis, mother to JFK Jr. and fashion icon. How very wrong I was. She was so much more. I can truly say that I have a new found respect for her and the dignity she showed in the face of so much tragedy. And there was a lot of tragedy in her life that I knew nothing about. Thornton’s writing was flawless and the intimacy she conveyed in the telling of this story was amazing. I felt like I was having tea with Jackie while she told me her story. I loved that a scene was included with spunky Alice Roosevelt whom SMT wrote of in her novel American Princess. If you have not been fortunate enough to read SMT novels I encourage you to grab one. I promise it won’t be the last. 5 big stars!
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The map of love is uncharted.”
And They Called It Camelot: A Novel of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis
by Stephanie Marie Thornton
Revision of earlier review of this book which I misplaced before I could finish:
I have a big problem. But it is not the problem it first was where I misplaced the book.
So I am a big Historical Fiction fan and I love, in particular, reading about real people, especially royalty.
Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis was certainly as close to royalty as one could get without actually BEING royalty.
So I was excited to read this and started with high hopes. I love this writer as well.
My problem originally was that I lost my copy of the book.
Then I found it.
And I discovered I just did not like it so I DNFED.
I cannot even say why with this one. I usually love Biographies and are one of the easiest genres to lose myself in. Not here though. I didn't find it compelling and even at tense and tragic points like where JFK is shot I just did not want to keep reading.
I have read and seen so much on her. And I have been to the Kennedy Gallery in Dallas and I just grew tired of the book. There really isn't another reason.
Sorry. -
And They Called it Camelot is the fictionalized and intimate portrait of the iconic First Lady from the courtship between Jackie and Jack Kennedy to her second widowhood after the death of Aristotle Onassis. The author really helped me understand the decisions that Jackie made in the context of what was happening at the time. I don't know if I would have handled things with such dignity and grace as Jackie did. I also appreciated the snippets of her relationship with her father-in-law, Joe and brother-in-law, Bobby. When she was angry with Jack, these two men were often guiding lights for Jackie and of course, in terms of the latter provided much comfort to her after Jack's death.
A nominee for favourite historical fiction of 2020
Goodreads review published 13/09/20 -
Even if you think you know the story of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, you’re in for rare behind-the-scenes look at the former First Lady’s life. Stephanie Thornton has channeled this iconic woman and delivers such an intimate portrait, at times I had to remind myself that this is a novel and not Kennedy’s own memoir. Such an ambitious undertaking and Thornton not only pulls it off, she hits it out of the park. This book is nothing short of magical. -
Stephanie Thornton uses fiction to skillfully show the private side of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. Jackie’s public image was always one of class, grace and stoicism, but underneath she was a woman with many self-doubts and fears. This novel spans the time from Jackie’s first meeting with Jack Kennedy, her life as a young wife and mother; and later her marriage to Onassis and her work as an editor; ending in 1977 with the dedication of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library. Well-researched and skillfully written, the novel is told through Jackie’s voice, giving it an intimate feel and a wonderful sense of time and place. Jackie’s perseverance allowed her to carve out the life she wanted with Jack, his family, the country and the world. With each new tragedy and hardship she faced, she rose up again to face life on her own terms. Thornton brings Jackie to life for readers, humanizing her, and allowing us to feel her pain and to celebrate her triumphs.
This was a captivating and unputdownable read, poignant and inspiring. I especially loved the portrayal of her relationship with Jack’s family. While her relationship with her mother-in-law and her myriad of sisters-in law was often strained; her father-in-law and Bobby Kennedy appreciated her strength, intelligence and political savvy. Her devotion to her children and Jack was evident throughout the book, as was her genius in creating a legacy for Jack after his death. The stories of Jackie and all the Kennedys continue fascinate and enthrall and Thornton’s novel should definitely be on the list of books to read. I highly recommend this one for fans of all things Kennedy, as well as fans of historical fiction and women’s fiction.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the e-ARC. -
An extraordinary profile of the courage and grace of the indomitable Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, And They Called it Camelot is impeccably researched and richly drawn. Thornton celebrates the former First Lady’s life in a sweeping account filled with poignant intimacy. Readers are instantly transported to Jackie’s version of Camelot as they immerse themselves in the fascinating and tumultuous history of the times. An unputdownable, unforgettable read.
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An unputdownable fictionalized account of Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ life as purportedly told by Jackie. Explored are her relationships with her parents, her sister Lee, Jack Kennedy, Bobby Kennedy, her children, the Kennedy family, Ari Onassis and the public. Although the author admits in her notes that she sometimes blurred the lines between fact and fiction, the story is so well told that you forget that Jackie isn’t really telling her story.
You relive those golden days of Camelot, when Jackie and Jack appeared to be the perfect couple, although the reality was that they were far from perfect. There are a lot of descriptions of her clothes and her trips, which sends you down the Google rabbit hole, looking for pictures.
This is a well written book and fascinating in its perspective and it’s details. For those who are fascinated by the Kennedy mystique, and especially by Jackie, this is a wonderful read. Having been raised in Massachusetts, I am totally guilty of this.
I definitely recommend this book. -
"I want to live my life, not record it."
-Jackie Kennedy
Five stars for an intimate portrayal of a brave and daring woman.
Jaqueline Bouvier is a lady of society that also works as a reporter. When attending a party, she is introduced to John F. Kennedy, then a Congressman with his eyes set on the senate. Jaqueline is aware that this Kennedy man is the most sought after bachelor of the time and attempts to resist his charms. It is futile, however, as she soon finds herself head-over-heels in love with him. The two wed and she officially becomes Jackie Kennedy. Her husband now has his eyes set on a different goal, the White House and Jackie commits herself to help him get there. But behind all the grandeur of the Kennedy clan is not all glitter and gold, and Jackie learns this the hard way.
WOW! This book is amazing. I first learned about Stephanie Marie Thornton when I read American Princess, a novel about Alice Roosevelt (which I absolutely loved by the way and strongly recommend). When I learned that she had a novel coming out about Jaqueline Kennedy, I knew i must have it. This encompassing book is masterful work where fact and fiction are seamlessly mixed. Jackie is an independent woman that works as a reporter yet when she falls for JFK, she gives that up. Their relationship is initially complicated but the more she is with him, the more she falls for him. When she is an official Kennedy, she gets perks but also some limitations she did not anticipate. Through all JFK's political runs and daily life with the Kennedy clan, Jackie learns that life at 'Camelot' is not all that amazing behind closed doors. All I knew about Jackie prior to reading this book was that she is a fashion icon and one of the most prominent first ladies. Thornton depicts on these pages a woman that lived a glamorous life as well as a woman that came up against more than her fair share of adversity. The prose complimented the pace and the way Thornton built up to JFK's tragic end was done with finesse. Characterization is top notch as characters were complex, were all their actions (wether good or bad) were explained within their contexts. Were Thornton is most successful is in showing Jackie as herself. I can tell you now that I am already looking forward to her next book. As for this one, I would also recommend it highly.
Jaqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis is a woman who wore many hats. She was a reporter, a wife, a mother, a remarkable first lady, an editor, and a fashion icon. More importantly though, she was a lady that lived boldly. Until I read this book I had not thought about how difficult it must have been to bear the Kennedy name. It was an honor but also a huge responsibility and sometimes even a bit of a burden. I can not imagine how she had to keep this almost pristine image in the face of JFK's multiple affairs and carry on after after the loss of three children. Jackie gave a distinct image to JFK, that of a family man. Yet, I do think they deeply loved each other and Thornton depicts this in her work. I guess complicated is the best word to describe the relationship between JFK and Jackie. I am intrigued by her relationship with her brother-in-law Bobby. There is a lot of speculation of what was the true nature of their relationship after JFK's murder. I guess we will never get a definite answer to this but the Kennedys are the last that could point a finger. Despite all though, Jackie never stopped carrying herself with grace and elegance. A fun fact I have learned is that Jackie won an Emmy for the televised tour of the renovated White House (of which Jackie was also in charge of). She was one of the youngest first ladies but definitely one of the most iconic. Again, thanks to Thornton for showcasing her story with the respect it deserves. A great book. -
This novelized tale of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis will appeal to both longtime fans of the era and newcomers alike. Educational and entertaining.
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If I could go back in time and pick an era to be alive for, it would definitely be the Kennedy era - but since time travel isn't in the cards, I'll just continue reading all the books I can instead. Having previously read My Summer with Jack by Michelle Gable & The Editor by Stephen Rowley, I've definitely found myself fond of historical fiction surrounding these recognizable political players, but I will say, with And They Called It Camelot, I've certainly found my new favorite.
Jackie is the star of this novel and shine she does. From her first date with Jack all the way through the death of second husband Aristotle Onassis, we get to ride along with Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis on an exciting and often tragic life. One of my favorite parts of reading this was asking my mother if certain things were fact or fiction and if she remembered them and I truly enjoyed the conversation it sparked. Camelet left me with a lot of food for thought and is one of the best historical fiction novels I have read in quite some time. If you have ever enjoyed a work of historical fiction, I'd venture to say that you'd be remiss to not pick this one up when it releases on March 10.
Thank you to Berkley for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own. -
I have always been fascinated by all things Kennedy and knew that I had to read And They Called It Camelot. Although this book is fact based fiction, it reads like an intimate memoir. I found myself reading only a bit at a time to savor the story and also because I dreaded the chapter on Dallas. I knew how that chapter ended, we all do. But I found myself in tears reading it from Jackie's perspective. Stephanie Marie Thornton has written a mesmerizing book about one of our nation's most iconic figures. Preorder this book NOW!! You won't be disappointed!
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I'm a huge fan of Stephanie Thornton's American Princess and have also written a novel about Jackie Kennedy (Jackie and Maria, due out August 2020), so I was dying to read this one as soon as it was announced. The publisher kindly sent me an ARC and I gobbled it up in two days, barely stopping to eat or sleep.
It’s incredibly brave to write in first person when your subject is still so firmly entrenched in living memory but Stephanie has completely nailed it. Her Jackie steps out of the pages a convincing, three-dimensional character, complete with contradictions and self-doubt. It’s like reading her private diary – witty, warm and full of colour. The shining heart of the novel is her love for (and frustration with) Jack, who is described as a golden figure, so sexy any of us would swoon at his feet. Their attraction is tangible and sizzling hot.
All the way through, Stephanie’s writing is vivid, with lots of memorable images (like those lemon-lipped Rah-Rah Sisters!). It's a complete triumph. Highly recommended! -
As a child in the 70's, I vividly remember combing through the ladies magazines like Good Housekeeping and Ladies Home Journal looking for photos and articles about Jackie O. My parents also had a book on our bookshelf called "The Torch Is Passed: The Associated Press Story of the Death of a President." I wore that book out looking at the photos and text about an event that had occurred before I was even born. Reading this new historical fiction title by Stephanie Marie Thornton was a joy. She brought Jackie to life for me and I hope many others will feel the same. Included along with a bibliography are an interview with the author, and a reading group guide. It would be my hope that a book group could discuss this book in an enlightening way despite the upcoming election.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. -
DNF at 40%. Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis was a fascinating lady, far more than I ever imagined, and I'm grateful to this book for bringing her to my attention. And They Called It Camelot wasn't a book for me though. It reads too much like a dense autobiography in style, and very little like a novel. Fictional Jackie, the narrator, mostly just tells us what happens, without enough depth or allure to hold my interest. The writing style, combined with not knowing if what I was reading was true or exaggerated or completely made up, left me feeling less and less motivated to continue on. I DO want to learn more about Jackie, but in an actual biography, not a fictionalized autobiography.
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The Kennedy family has always held a degree of mystique and grandeur to the world. As First Lady, Jacqueline seemed to hold the world at bay, almost hiding behind a magical veil that held her separate from outsiders. And They Called It Camelot: A Novel of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis by Stephanie Marie Thornton gives readers a fictional view of Jackie O’s life, from her thoughts meeting JFK, to the tense air that flowed between her and most of the Kennedy clan.
A strong piece of work, readers feel the moments in history that Jackie lived, felt her emotions, the iron will she cleverly held out of sight through the delicate façade she showed the public. Was she really a tiger in disguise? Her star shone brightly through turmoil, deceit and pain in this captivating version of the woman who unwillingly became an icon for not only a country, but the world. Gracious in the public eye, her life was not her own and now we get an imaginary look at how she handled a life no one could be prepared for.
A fabulously entertaining read that does NOT contain dirty revelations, but makes each tidbit the world clung to feel more human, more real, and more invasive. Stephanie Marie Thornton has done a remarkable job of respectfully telling the tale of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, a woman who seems to continue to touch the world.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Berkley! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publisher: Berkley (March 10, 2020)
Publication Date: March 10, 2020
Genre: Fictionalized biography
Print Length: 448 pages
Available from:
Amazon |
Barnes & Noble
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* A world without Jack was
shades of gray, and I had no desire to be a part of it. *
This novel is amazing , wonderful and spectacular, i loved it so much. The author wrote this novel very well and the events are very fast, i loved Jacky more and more after this novel.
This is the second novel to me by Stephanie Marie, the first novel is not good as this one.
I am a big fan of Historical Fiction novels, i heard a lot about Jacqueline Kennedy but don't have the chance to read about her or maybe don't found the right novel.
Jackie life is so hard from beginning, i felt sorry for her specially when Jack died in her arms and in front of her eyes, it is a difficult thing to happen for anyone. I have a same experience but with my Grandpa. I loved the way she try to protect her children from these journalists who want to earn money from their life story and at the expense of their pain.
I hated Onesis’s character very much, he is a despicable and opportunist person who wants to control everything that puts his eyes on him so that he wanted to have Jacqueline to be part of his wealth that is not love in her or her personality. Some one like him felt full after a lot of years of hungry, he is disgusting.
*Life would go on. I’d seen the worst of everything and I’d seen the best of everything, but I couldn’t replace my children.They were my greatest victory in this life, my vengeance on a world that had sought to defeat me more than once. *
This story greatly affected me emotionally, which I will not be able to overcome until recently.
*My life had been filled with adventure and wisdom, laughter and love, gallantry and grace. Now I was just Jackie, mother of two courageous children and dedicated book editor. And that was enough.*
The Author Note is so amazing, i will not pass this novel with easy way. -
AND THEY CALLED IT CAMELOT, a book about Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, by Stephanie Marie Thornton is an epic idea that re-envisions history in a way that only a novel can.
See the review in full color at my blog,
TheZestQuest.com.
Even though I grew up as this history unfolded, reliving it through this novel brought tears to my eyes all over again. What this family endured is beyond comprehension. Reading it all from Jackie’s point of view is breathtaking and heartbreaking. I kept hoping she’d realize some enduring happiness.
I was enthralled from the beginning. The ambiance of the 1950s political arena is vivid without being overdone. Envisioning the Kennedys’ first date is just like I had imagined it. What an ingenious way to experience their story – in novel form. It’s smart and sweet and sassy and romantic with disappointments layered in.
I found this book deeply moving at times. When Jacqueline steps to a podium the first time to speak in Louisiana, it moved me to tears. She was instinctual and kind. I think that’s because we experience all her disappointments from her point-of-view up until this moment. It made me want to hug her. She was brave and fierce for her time.
Writing a novel in a real person’s point-of-view is a brave endeavor. I knew the whole time I was reading that this book was fiction based on fact. But I couldn’t stop wondering about what really happened and what didn’t. The author does a nice job at the end explaining what she changed to work for her book.
Due to my grandmother’s obsession with JFK, I’ve always followed this family’s history, but there is a lot I didn’t know or remember. President Kennedy was assassinated less than a month before my fifth birthday. But my age didn’t really matter – I was glued to the TV just like everyone else. I remember the children the most. And, like many other families of that era, we went to Washington DC to visit the eternal flame.
AND THEY CALLED IT CAMELOT represents resiliency incredibly well. Jackie was an icon, including her fashion sense. This isn’t a fairy tale, but in many ways, it represents a romantic time in history. There are sweet moments, but truth is also well represented. I’m not sure how Jackie endured everything in her lifetime. It’s excellent storytelling balanced with positives during dark times for this family.
I highly recommend this novel to those who lived this history by watching it play out on their black and white TV. For those who don’t know this era, it may give you a glimpse of strength and resiliency unlike anything you’ve experienced. AND THEY CALLED IT CAMELOT alludes to “you’ve come a long way baby” to women across the world. May we all continue to be Jackie-strong in whatever we face.
Review by Dorine, courtesy of
TheZestQuest.com. A digital copy was provided by the publisher for an honest review. Thanks in advance for following links and sharing this review on social media. -
Jackie Kennedy was more of an iconic figure than a person to me; the story I garnered really was in snippets around past tragedy, fashion spreads of her famous style, the shock and awe of her marriage to Ari Onassis. In a way, she was the “Diana” of her era- and I was peering from the edge of it, well after the fact and from another country. “And They Called It Camelot” provided a very human face to this quite amazing woman who survived incredible losses while living graciously and who made significant differences in her own right, as well as being an admirable First Lady.
This book is a work of fiction. Author Thornton, in the Acknowledgment, reminds us of this and that she had filled in, altered time and some people yet attempted to be as faithful as possible in depicting the character of Jackie. At over 450 pages, covering Jackie’s life from her first engagement and finishing after Onassis’s death, it is 20 years packed with significant events, highly acclaimed politicians, heads of state, the rich and famous and the very accomplished as well as the family inner circle- and told from the perspective of Jackie with her inner thoughts, a wry sense of humour and acute political acumen. I was highly impressed.
The icon now has more of my empathy, especially in consideration of the latter years when the press picked her apart; she was so harshly judged, it seemed and was great grist for gossip headlines.
Very, very good. -
"We all had our own tragedies to live. And, in the end, death would claim us all."
A well-written book, this historical fiction account of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis is, first of all, a tribute to the woman's incredible strength and resilience. I laughed, I cried, and I learned so much about Jackie while bringing to mind the little I actually remember from those years. I know that many people idolized the Kennedys and revere the JFK Presidency -- it impacted some so much that they recall exactly what they were doing when they heard that he had been shot. I was too young at the time it happened for any memories, but I know that the whole reference to the days of "Camelot" is one that has lingered over the many years since.
Told in the first person perspective, the author has given us access to Jackie's thoughts and reactions to all that transpired during much of her life. It's always hard to be accurate to history and get into someone's mind, and surely the construction has to be taken with a grain of salt. Not knowing a person intimately, gleaning detail from letters, documents, interviews, photos and footage, has to be very daunting. I found myself constantly asking, "Is this true? Is this what she really said, thought, did?' I believe that no one can ever know what really goes on in the heart or mind of another, but I feel that Stephanie Thornton presented us with a unique portrayal of a woman who valued her privacy and kept herself to herself.
Jackie wanted those one thousand and thirty-six days of JFK's Presidency to be remembered and his legacy of hope and service protected for all time. She must be forgiven for creating and curating him into a legend of epic proportions. She forgave him so much and sacrificed for his career and legacy at her own expense. Who was Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis to herself? A woman who loved a man and protected him, encouraged him, and helped him get everything he wanted. Was it worth it all -- we will never really know. I enjoyed this book and am glad that I revisited this special period in American History. The characters come to life on the pages and I will be thinking about them all for a very long time. In all, it was quite sad overall to read about the trauma and heartache experienced by this family. They gave everything they had and lost so much.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this e-book ARC to read, review and recommend. I will continue to read anything Stephanie Thornton writes! -
I go through phases with historical fiction and right now I’m absolutely loving them. I’d read Stephanie Marie Thornton’s prior book American Princess which was a fictionalized narrative non-fiction (honestly not sure how to label this specific sub-genre!) about Alice Roosevelt, which I loved. So when I saw And They Called it Camelot: A Novel of Jackie Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, I grabbed it right away. I love the way Thornton takes stories about real people grounded in real events and uses her imagination to fill in the other pieces. It feels like reading a memoir, but with the flair of a fiction book.
Jackie Kennedy is truly an icon. She is everything glamour, class, and chic. I went to an exhibit once of just preserved outfits she wore and was photographed in for notable events in history and I felt quite humbled by the experience. Afterall, the thing about Jackie is that she wasn’t only a style icon, she also is an important historical figure.
Wen I was reading this, I guess I didn’t really put together how young she was in her time as the first lady. Only 31 years old! At a time when men were the changemakers, Jackie O truly carved her own place in history. Her life may seem like a fairy tale, but the more I learned about her and saw the woman behind the legend, I realized how much tragedy she had in her life. Beyond just the assassination of JFK (which was indeed heart breaking), Jackie’s life wasn’t all magic and glamour. I loved reading this because I felt I learned so much more about her and I see her through different eyes.
The novel begins just before Jackie met JFK, which is a period of her life I knew almost nothing about. As we watch the two fall in love and get married, Jackie is dealing with all of the complications that come with marrying into a family like the Kennedys.
And of course, the part we are all ashamed to be curious about—the book touches on JFK’s infidelities. I thought these were handled with a careful hand. We don’t only see what JFK did to Jackie with is affairs (one of which was quite famous—I kept thinking about how humiliating that would be), we also see Jackie as much more than the docile 50s housewife that many assume her to be when it came to the infidelity. Jackie is in love, but more than that, Jackie knows that JFK’s career is bigger than their marriage. The impact he can have on the world is more important than her struggles as his wife.
One thing I also learned about Jackie during this time is how important family is to her. She is a mother to her core, and that’s something I really respected about her.
And yes, Marilyn Monroe is included. But I’ll save that to let you see how Jackie felt about her in the book.
The book also converse JFK’s assassination and Jackie’s retreat from the spotlight after it occurs. One thing I thought interesting is how Thornton portrayed Jackie’s marriage to Aristotle Onassis, a Greek magnate. Thornton makes the case that this was part of Jackie’s desire to remove herself and her family from the public eye and towards a sense of security and privacy.
And of course, the book touches on Jackie’s relationship with Bobby Kennedy. This was interesting—I had always heard rumors of an affair between the two. The book is inconclusive (as is, I believe, historical record). But I do think the book highlights why the two became close through their grief over the loss of Jack.
I could go on and on about this book. If I left it with anything, it was an appreciation for Jackie’s intellect, class, feminism, and strength as a woman and a mother.
Thank you to Berkley for my copy. Opinions are my own. -
Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis. I imagine everyone knows her name, but this fictionalized biography offers a compassionate, humanising glimpse into the life of such a recognisable icon. The poised, stoic, classy facade is peeled back in this tale, and Jackie is presented as a woman with hopes and dreams and a fierce love for her family. I loved the intimacy of the first person narration. This is a beautifully detailed story that was impeccably researched. Jackie’s life of privilege and sorrow is explored sensitively and compellingly, and her tenacious inner strength shines.
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First Book of the Year, and I loved it. Finished a little less than the second half this morning.
I love historical fiction, and recently I have fallen for this author. In late 2018, I read American Princess. There are a lot of books with that title, but this one featured the Alice Roosevelt, the daughter of Teddy Roosevelt, who was married to a senator, had an affair with another, but was deeply involved with her father's campaign and administration. This one, is about JFK and Jackie, and the story revolves around Jackie, and her experiences, triumphs, and traumas. It aims to capture her, and I believe the author does a fabulous job. Born in 1968, there is so much I didn't know about this era, and believe it or not, since I live in Massachusetts, you'd think I would have known a lot more about the Kennedy's. You'd be wrong. I didn't. But this novel really brought me into a world, not just of the past, but a piece of history, and an iconic woman's experience. Oh the losses she experienced, and oh the pain of losing Jack, Bobby, and Joe. And then later losses to follow. And the delights she had, and the dreams, and what Camelot is. Castles in the clouds, and yet very real difficult sacrifices that are made. I really loved it, and it was a great way to start off the year. With a five star review. I highly recommend it. -
I loved this book! Jackie's life is not exactly a happy one. You have to know that going into it. But it is a fascinating one.
This book is told from her point of view and I finally understand why she married Aristotle Onassis. I always assumed it was just the money, but it's not like the Kennedy family had no money. So, I now get what happened in her world and what the marriage solved for her.
I also had no idea of her restoration efforts, specifically Grand Central in NYC and the White House. That made me like her more too.
All in all it was worth reading and I'm glad I did. -
In writing this review for "AND THEY CALLED IT CAMELOT", I readily confess my deep admiration and respect for President Kennedy and Mrs. Jacqueline Kennedy (Onassis) over the past several decades.
The novel starts shortly after Jacqueline Bouvier has broken off her engagement to stockbroker John Husted and is introduced - through a friend at a party - to a young Congressman from Massachusetts who has his sights set on running for the Senate in 1952 against a popular Republican incumbent. The name of the Congressman: John Fitzgerald Kennedy. The novel -- as largely told by Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis herself --- takes the reader through the subsequent 2 decades of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis' life.
One of the best selling points of this novel is that the pace never slackens and is largely faithful to what is historically verifiable about Jackie Kennedy Onassis' life. But I must admit to a literary device the author used in the novel that caused me to raise my eyebrows a bit. I won't say what it is, except to say that it did not interrupt the overall flow of the novel.
Stephanie Marie Thornton has written a first-rate novel. She deserves all the praises she has earned for it. -
Die fesselnde und dramatische Geschichte einer beeindruckenden (wenn auch meiner Meinung nach nicht unbedingt sympathischen) Frau - sehr lesenswert.
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I’m so thankful to my friend Jennifer for putting a copy of And They Called It Camelot into my hands prior to it’s official publication date tomorrow. I’ve read several books on Jackie Kennedy, but this was the most emotionally compelling historical fiction novel about her. This was told in the first person which allowed the author to imagine how Jackie felt at each pivotal moment in her life. The result was a fascinating emotional journey and maybe a glimpse into the thoughts of one of America’s icons.
This started when Jackie met John and spanned the years to when she was widowed for a second time and moved back to New York. I loved watching their love life unfold, mostly because it was so believable. Her heartache when she discovered his affairs was so realistic that I felt immediately sympathetic. There were so many monumental events that occurred to Jackie during her life, that there was no shortage of drama here. The author did a great job of explaining the political tensions along with the impact on Jackie’s own relationship with John.
What really stood out here was the depth given to Jackie. In many other books she has been portrayed as shallow, as if redecorating the white noise was merely a vanity exercise. But here, the descriptions of the outdated and decrepit White House screamed for someone to give our nation’s most famous residence the care and attention it deserved. I loved that she tried to incorporate small details from prior presidencies and highlight America’s history through small things as the wallpaper, or the Resolute desk.
Absolutely everything in this novel was fantastic. The scenes between the characters were vivid portraits of their backgrounds and entire personality. The despair that came through during the Dallas scenes, and after Bobby was shot was very well done. This was great in every way and I loved reading it. I highly recommend this!
