The Kennedy Debutante
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4.1 • 184 Ratings
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- $12.99
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- $12.99
Publisher Description
“A riveting reimagining of a true tale of forbidden love.”—People
The captivating novel following the exploits of Kathleen “Kick” Kennedy, the forgotten and rebellious daughter of one of America's greatest political dynasties.
London, 1938. The effervescent "It girl" of London society since her father was named the ambassador, Kathleen "Kick" Kennedy moves in rarefied circles, rubbing satin-covered elbows with some of the twentieth century's most powerful figures. Eager to escape the watchful eye of her strict mother, Rose; the antics of her older brothers, Jack and Joe; and the erratic behavior of her sister Rosemary, Kick is ready to strike out on her own and is soon swept off her feet by Billy Hartington, the future Duke of Devonshire.
But their love is forbidden, as Kick's devout Catholic family and Billy's staunchly Protestant one would never approve their match. And when war breaks like a tidal wave across her world, Billy is ripped from her arms as the Kennedys are forced to return to the States. Kick finds work as a journalist and joins the Red Cross to get back to England, where she will have to decide where her true loyalties lie—with family or with love....
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Maher's assured debut, set against the backdrop of World War II, explores the life of JFK's younger sister Kathleen "Kick" Kennedy. In 1938, 18-year-old Kick is new to London, where her father serves as the U.S. ambassador. Her natural charm and intelligence quickly draw a loyal group of friends as well as the attention of the future Duke of Devonshire, the charming Billy Hartington, but their incompatible religious beliefs prove to be a roadblock. Just before Germany's blitz on London, Kick's family is forced to flee to America, but she wholeheartedly seeks a way to marry Billy without compromising her faith or the support of her close-knit family. Maher ably captures the charmed life of the vivacious, multifaceted Kick, who is equally at home amid the glitz and glamour of the 1930s London party scene and providing comfort for wounded soldiers. This immersive, rich portrait of a complex young woman from one of the world's most famous families will hold readers in thrall.
Customer Reviews
The Kennedy Debutant
Interesting novel. Some truths, some fiction. Easy read.
Dithering Story Telling
What is surely fascinating subject matter sadly turned into rambling dialogue and a poorly written narrative. I had high hopes for this novel to learn more about the Kennedy clan and the WWII era, as well as the little-known Kick, however the author failed to engage me mostly due to the distraction of aimless, dithering narrative. The editing failed to improve this fictional account, and the story could have been told more effectively with half the words. Disappointing overall.