Member Reviews

We have all read the many stories about Jack and Jackie Kennedy and the mystic of Camelot. But in Jackie by Dawn Tripp, we are given an insight into their private lives. We learn about their romance as well as Jackie’s private thoughts as she travels the road from the assignations of both Jack and Bobby Kennedy, her marriage to Ari Onassis and finally, her terminal illness. A very lovely fictional novel. I enjoyed it.

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This is a wonderful historical fiction novel about Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis.
There has always been a mystique about John and Jackie Kennedy and that led me to read quite a bit about JFK’s life, his family and his presidency. But in what I read, Jackie was not the focus and so I did not know a lot about her. So when I learned that there was a historical fiction novel about her, I knew that it was one I wanted to read. A perfect blend of a genre I enjoy and a personality I wanted to learn more about.
The author’s effective use of the first-person point of view makes this read feel like a memoir and allows the reader to become immersed in Jackie’s world. There are some chapters from Jack’s perspective which I found effective as they served to juxtapose his and Jackie’s reactions to the same events/circumstances.
Completely evocative and beautifully written!

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This was such a great read. I learned a lot of things I really didn’t know about Jackie or John (Jack). It was wonderfully written and kept me wanting to read. It was just so crazy to me that back then while her husband was with other women she was supposed to just be okay with that, like it was the “norm” just boggles my mind! Jackie went thru so much but still had so many wonderful things to show for it in the end. I highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a good historical memoir type book.

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This is my first read by this author. I was excited to receive an arc of this title as I love anything concerning the Kennedy’s.
I dove right in and read voraciously. The story progressed at a slower pace than I like. I’m also not a fan of the “asides” from Jackie. I found that they interrupted the flow of the story. When the ending came all loose ends were tied up too quickly compared to the pace of the story up to that point.
I am glad I read it but not sure if I’d recommend it to friends.

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“Jackie” by Dawn Tripp is a novel that promises to be an essential addition to the shelves of those fascinated by the enigmatic Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Tripp’s portrayal is said to be as authentic as any biography, offering a window into the life of a woman who was not only a witness to history but also a shaper of it. The book delves into her life with Jack Kennedy, her time with Onassis, and her journey as a woman who chose to work because she wanted to—not because she had to.

This historical fiction piece is a vivid, intimate story of love, power, family, and the reinvention that follows tragedy. It’s a tale that captures the heartbreak and beauty of Jackie’s life, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the complexities of her character and the era she lived in.

For readers who appreciate a blend of history, romance, and deep personal exploration, “Jackie” is a book that should not be missed. It’s a mesmerizing narrative that’s both a work of the imagination and a tribute to a woman who led many lives—Jackie, Jacks, Jacqueline, Miss Bouvier, Mrs. Kennedy, Jackie O. Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction or simply intrigued by the legends of American history, Dawn Tripp’s “Jackie” is poised to be a memorable read.

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A stunning glimpse into the inner world of renowned and tragically ephemeral First Lady, Jackie Kennedy. This book, classified as historical fiction, is almost exclusively stream of conscious told mostly from the perspective of Jackie Kennedy. In general, I don’t love stream of conscious written books, but this was executed so well, I could not stop reading. I should mention I don’t know much about Jackie’s life, but this account was so well written, I never questioned its veracity for a moment- which makes it the best kind of historical fiction.

It’s an immersion into the life and lives of the Kennedy’s; it’s an examination of what it means to be the woman in the public eye married to the leader of the free world. I could not get over how well Dawn Tripp navigated the nuance of their complicated marriage and family life. This book took a family of mythological proportions in American history, and humanized their lives without degrading the love story they shared. Jackie’s life did not end after JFK’s murder, and the book carries on to her death; however, the stream of consciousness takes on a shattered quality of a woman who’s suffered severe and unthinkable trauma over and over again. It was so real and raw. So undeniably human.

I enjoyed this book immensely.

I’d like to thank Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Good historical fiction about the life of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis. In this novel, the reader is allowed into Jackie’s head to get her unique perspective about her life, told in her voice. Her experiences were sometimes very humorous, and others unspeakably tragic. Everything that occurred molded her into a strong, resilient woman, still admired by many people today, years after her passing.
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*

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One of the best books I have read about Jackie Kennedy. The reading is exquisite with her speaking in the first person. How classy, how brilliant, how well read and what decorum she possessed. She was a truly remarkable woman with insight and understanding the “big picture.” An incredible mother, a steadfast wife and a First Lady like no other. She was in a class of her own. Thank you NetGalley and Random House for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own

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Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this ARC.
This book was so much, it was a romance, and it was the story of a woman who was gracefully elegant , while living through her grief in the public eye. I really liked the way the author fictionalized through her research of facts , the life of Jackie Kennedy Onassis to give the reader a glimpse into what she may have been feeling. . #NetGalley #Jackie

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If you are a Jackie Kennedy Onassis fan, you owe it to yourself to read Dawn Tripp’s account, Jackie, due to be released on June 18. Based on historical accounts revealed through private photographs of President and Mrs. Kennedy and the entire Kennedy family, this is an historical fiction that reads beautifully, answers questions that have existed for years, and re-introduces the reader to the dreamy idea of Camelot. Beginning with the death of President Kennedy, and then traveling backwards to Jack and Jackie’s early days, you will be reminded of what makes this family so special and unique in America’s history.

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I’ve long been fascinated by the Kennedys, and this unique blend of history and historical fiction is a true homage to Jackie. This book faithfully follows the life of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis from the time when a young Jackie meets the charismatic JFK, through their marriage, politics, the presidency, tragedy, and her later life. It’s a tribute to Jackie as a woman, not only as the First Lady but as an extraordinary person in her own right: a lifelong reader who was intelligent, poised, perceptive, introspective, and surprisingly witty.

You already know this story, this American fairytale, but you’ve never heard it told like this. While fictionalized through the author’s lens, this bold first-person portrayal of Jackie feels authentic and her words and thoughts ring true. Although the conversations and some situations are imagined, many of the actual facts of this book are deeply rooted in history, and it’s evident that the author meticulously and thoroughly researched her subject. Far from a dry history lesson though, this story is intimate and moving. The prose is beautiful and often poetic, with some passages after the assassination especially emotional and insightful. Highly recommended for lovers of the Camelot era or First Ladies!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House for providing me an advance copy of this book.

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a lovely story about Jackie Kennedy. I learned lots of things about her that I didn't know. Really good story.

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What a delightful ode to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis! A thoroughly researched and richly imagined multi-dimensional look at the public and private life of Jackie. Looking into the depths of a casual photograph of Jackie and Jack and reading what Dawn Tripp has imagined were Jackie's thoughts and taking that experiment into this lovely historical fiction novel.
Starting with that fateful day on Nov 22, 1963, and peeling back the woman who we all saw in that convertible in Texas. I ate all of this story up! Loved the way Jackie is portrayed with wit, charm, and beauty. Fiercely loyal and protective of her family. Handling fame and heartbreak all while under constant scrutiny. This novel adds to the legend and is extremely well written.
Loved it!

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I have always heard about Jack and Jackie and them being American Royalty. I didn't get to experience them in the White House or see them as a couple. I remember hearing about Jackie's style and elegance. She was a force or nature and I am sure that she had to endure so much being in the public eye. She handled it all with grace.

Reading this book I feel like to got a glimpse into what Jackie truly felt about Jack, politics, the Kennedys, and being a public figure. While my heart ached for her every time Jack cheated on her, I can't imagine a person more suited for him. She kept him on his toes. Her intelligence and charm rivaled his. My heart broke and ached after reading about Jack's death. I felt her pain and grief. I honestly had an aching heart from that part of the book until the end. While I am sad that Jackie died so young, I am truly glad she didn't have to experience John's death. She was so strong and brave. I feel as if I got to know her in this book and while I know it is historical fiction, the author seemed to capture her essence.

I highly recommend this book to everyone.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Random House for the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

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"Jackie" by Dawn Tripp is not your ordinary historical fiction. The book sheds a new light on the life of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, proving that she was more than just the attractive face of a nation. It reveals an intelligent, passionate woman who was deeply immersed in the world of arts, loved books, and history.
Jackie was known for her equestrian skills, a testament to her diverse talents. Her love story with Jack Kennedy, a charming congressman, forms the core of the narrative. Their relationship and marriage, far from ideal, were nonetheless deeply rooted in love. Despite Jack's death, Jackie's love for him remained constant, a love that she never truly moved on from.
The book presents Jackie as a strong woman who, despite the public scrutiny of her two difficult marriages, fought to stand on her own two feet and succeed. Jack and Jackie Kennedy were often thought of as American royalty, and this story validates that perception.
However, Jackie was not just about style and elegance. The narrative emphasizes her intellectual prowess and passion. Her significant involvement in the art world is highlighted, showing a side of Jackie that was often overshadowed by her public image.
Reading "Jackie" by Dawn Tripp is an emotional journey. It paints an intimate portrait of Jackie’s life - her triumphs, her struggles, and her indomitable spirit. The book is not just good and entertaining, but it's an amazing look into what may have been Jackie’s life. This historical fiction is a heartfelt tribute to an iconic figure in American history whose legacy continues to inspire.
I would like to express my gratitude to Dawn Tripp, Random House Publishing, and Netgalley for this incredible opportunity to read and review this ARC. This book has truly been a journey into the life of one of the most fascinating women in history.

❤️ Happy Reading!!! ❤️

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📚 BOOK REVIEW [ARC] 📚
I had the absolute pleasure of reading Jackie by author Dawn Tripp an as ARC and as a buddy read with @megan_reads14 thanks to @netgalley and @randomhouse. This was a chronological journey through the life of Jaqueline Bouvier/Jackie Kennedy/Jackie Onassis through her eyes, thoughts and feelings starting in 1951 and ending with her death in 1994. This book is listed as historical fiction/women's fiction, but the author did extensive research on the Kennedy family, Jackie's family, the Onassis family, and all those who would've been important to her throughout her life.

This book reads so beautifully. Dawn Tripp really made me as a reader feel what Jackie was feeling and truly understand her through the very different chapters of her life. She was such a vibrant and fierce woman in a time where she felt she had to limit some of her opinions to fit into her mold as a First Lady, and then widow who was only hoping to find peace in her later years.

Jackie was a devoted life-long reader, intellectual, wife, First Lady, dancer, writer, and dreamer, but this book shows that one of her greatest joys was to be Caroline and John's mother and grandmother to Caroline's children. She experienced such loss in her life, but this extended far beyond the presidential assassination. She lost two children, and many close family members in tragic ways. She also had to edit herself and hold off on her dreams somewhat in order to try to fit the mold of a Kennedy wife and Publix figure. This journey gives not only insight into what her life was, but also how women were encouraged to make their dreams secondary to those of their husbands.

My heart broke for her so many times, but I also felt that is the end she did not regret the love she gave to JFK, but used it to fuel her through the rough seas that followed. I would highly recommend reading this one! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#Jackie #netgalley #RandomHouseGroup #stephsbookreads #historicalfiction #womensfiction #bookreviewer

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I really wanted to LOVE this book because I love Jackie Kennedy and the whole Kennedy dynasty story. There were parts that were enjoyable, and I definitely learned some new things about the Kennedy family, the presidency, the time period, etc. However, the way the book is written is strange. There are short snippets of stories that end after a few sentences with no follow up. The point of view is really unique, too, and not in the best way. It's first person pov from Jackie's perspective, but it feels like there's very little emotion in her words. She's talking about emotions that she feels, but I don't feel them as the reader. There are also a lot of strange phrases that seem like the writing is trying to be very poetic and lyrical, but it just left me as the reader wondering what in the world it was talking about. I'm at 60%, and I have to put this one down for a while. I'll come back to it after another book or two, but I definitely need to pause and take a break because this is a LONG, drawn out story.

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Thank you @randomhouse and @netgalley for the eARC of Jackie by @dawn.Tripp in exchange for an honest review!
Jackie by Dawn Tripp
Publication Date: June 18, 2024
Random House Publishing Group - Random House | Random House
📖📖 Book Review 📖📖 I have to be honest that I felt a little guilty reading this book. Although I realize it is historical fiction, it felt so intimately realistic, that I felt like I was intruding on Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ most personal thoughts. I went to college in Dallas and spent so much time reading books in my college classes about the Kennedy assasination and visiting the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza but never took a deep dive into Jackie. Thank you Dawn Tripp for this beautifully written narrative that allows the reader to feel such a close connection to this iconic First Lady. Her style and grace are captured perfectly in this novel written with as much precision as Jackie O’s fashion sense. What a delightful treat this book is!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Review is posted on Goodreads and final review will be on instagram closer to publication date!

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Thanks NetGalley for the ARC. With this woman and her by-marriage family over-saturating historical content, this historical fiction novel did have a unique twist, but it wasn’t one that I could fully dive into. The concept of a historical novel from Jackie’s POV was new and fresh at the beginning, but I found myself getting lost in the semantics and the way in which stories within stories unfolded. Being a historian myself, I would like to read more about the authors research and sources collected as this takes on a very focused lens of Jackie, but not a Jackie we all know.

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Jackie
By: Dawn Tripp
Pub date: June 18, 2024
Publisher: Random House

5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I admired Jaqueline Kennedy for how well she raised her children and her style. I had little knowledge of how she met Jack, but knew about what the press shared with us.

The tragedies in her lifetime with the loss of two children, and her husband had to be unbearable. Her resilience, love of life, art, history and travel made her fascinating.

This novel also explored her marriage to Aristotle Onassis who could give her security but was not the kindest man.

Thank you Random House for this gifted copy.

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