The Kennedy Debutante

By: Kerri Maher

Narrated by: Julia Whelan

“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....

Surprisingly good

I didn't have high expectations but was won over. And Julia Whelan, as usual, made it a great listen. She has the right touch with different voices, accents without going too far.

Breathtakingly Geniune and Well-Reeearched

Im actually doing research that includes Deborah Mitford right now. (I’m a non-fiction writer.) I first saw this book about Kick Kennedy, before I was working on the Duchess of Devonshire. I’d read reviews of a biography about Kathleen (Kick) Kennedy years before. What I read in the reviews sparked my desire to learn more about her; but, you know, life.

Listening to this book provided me with an insight into the tragic life of this amazing woman. I remember JFK’s assasination; a few years later I watched our television as it replayed news about his brother Bobby’s only s few years later.

The narrator managed quite a few different accents admirably and provided a suitable voice for the subject of the novel. When she read the end notes of the book, I felt the extra information provided a balm to my sadness at the ending of this admirable work of fiction.

Interesting story of Kathleen Kennedy and family

Enjoyed story of this amazing woman. Learned a lot about the Kennedys and this little known woman. Great narration, interesting story

wonderful

What a wonderful book. I loved every minute
learning Kicks story and could not stop listening.

Beautiful and tragic

From a purely fictional standpoint this novel was excellent but knowing how much work went into researching the historical details I found it stunning. Well worth the listen!