Captivated by "Jackie": A Heartfelt Exploration of an Icon
When I first laid eyes on the cover of Jackie, the latest novel by Dawn Tripp, I felt an undeniable pull. Like many, I’ve been fascinated by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis—her elegance, her spirit, her complicated legacy. Doris Kearns Goodwin’s words echo in my mind: “Culturally something happened between her and the decade that she lived in.” That connection intrigued me, prompting me to eagerly sign into NetGalley day after day, waiting for that coveted approval. When it finally came through, I think I might have squealed with excitement!
This fictional portrayal invites the reader into Jackie’s world; we follow her from the thrill of meeting JFK to the heart-wrenching events surrounding his assassination. What struck me most was the intimate portrayal of her journey, brilliantly crafted by Tripp. I felt as if I were reading a personal diary, reliving Jackie’s hopes, dreams, and struggles. The narrative encapsulated that tender moment when Jackie admitted, “We are made of stars and I loved you from the first moment I saw you…” This quote resonated on multiple levels, not just as a reflection of romance but as an acknowledgment of the weight of love—not just for others, but for oneself.
I loved how Tripp illuminated Jackie as more than just JFK’s wife. She was a woman with her own ambitions, and the desire to maintain her identity amid towering expectations was beautifully portrayed. The line, “You were not my kind of adventure. Too American. Too good-looking. Too boy. Too much about politics and new money,” reveals Jackie’s initial hesitation, making her all the more relatable. It spoke volumes about her complex character and how societal pressures shaped her experiences.
The pacing felt just right, allowing me to savor those pivotal moments of history. I appreciated how the narrative interwove the sociopolitical landscape of the time, touching on civil rights movements led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. The mention of icons like Frank Sinatra felt like a delightful nod to a vibrant era, enhancing the richness of the setting.
The heavier themes of loyalty were explored through the difficult moments of JFK’s presidency and his well-documented affairs. Yet, despite the betrayals, the book masterfully highlights Jackie’s enduring love for her husband. The emotional shift following JFK’s tragic death was nearly palpable, leaving me in tears. Tripp’s depiction of Jackie’s metamorphosis in the aftermath served as a powerful reminder of resilience and finding personal strength in adversity. As she reflects, “The world is alive to me because of you,” I couldn’t help but feel the depth of that connection—both haunting and beautiful.
This experience was truly transformative for me. I found myself immediately pre-ordering the physical edition upon finishing, eager to revisit its pages and relive the moments I had marinated in. I wholeheartedly recommend Jackie to fellow lovers of historical fiction; even if it’s not your usual genre, Tripp’s writing is so engaging that you just might find yourself captivated by the narrative. This was my first encounter with Tripp’s work, and I’m excited to explore more of her storytelling in the future.
In a world that often feels disconnected from the past, Jackie captures both the glamour and the grit of a life lived in the public eye, reminding us that our stories—like Jackie’s—are still being written.