Investigation of The Kennedy Daughter's Muse
Set against the vibrant and politically charged fashion scenes of 1960s Paris, New York, and Milan, Julia Bryan Thomas' third historical novel, "The Kennedy Girl," is set to be released on January 14.
The story revolves around a 19-year-old American orphan named Mia, who aspires to emulate her style icon Jackie Kennedy. Mia's life takes an unexpected turn when she is offered the chance to model in Paris, an opportunity she cannot resist.
As Mia immerses herself in the glamorous world of fashion, she finds herself unwittingly drawn into a dangerous game of international espionage. The Parisian fashion world, with its glamour and political intrigue, serves as a prominent backdrop for this thrilling tale.
The novel takes place during the Cold War, a period of heightened international tension. The disarmament talks between the United States and the Soviet Union were underway, and the failed Paris Summit of 1960 marked a significant deterioration in relations between the two superpowers.
Julia Bryan Thomas' meticulous research into the fashion cultures of the time is evident in her vivid portrayal of the settings and Mia's environment. She spent months researching the art of haute couture from major fashion houses in Paris and Milan, ensuring an authentic depiction of the era's fashion trends.
Moreover, the author's research into Cold War–era spy activities, especially as they might intersect with the fashion industry internationally, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. The novel explores the creative survival methods required in the world of espionage, a aspect that Julia Bryan Thomas found particularly engaging.
Mia, despite her naivety, adapts well to her new role as a double agent. She takes to her new modeling career and falls in love with her new life in fashion and design. However, her innocence is soon tested as she is used as a pawn in a dangerous game that threatens to consume her.
The novel captures the fashion cultures of New York, Paris, and Milan in the 1960s, reflecting the influence of European fashion on American women at the time. France, chosen as a setting for the novel, was not only a hub for the fashion industry but also a country recovering from the German occupation of World War 2, making it an appropriate setting for this gripping tale.
In 1960, the eyes of the fashion world were on Jacqueline Kennedy, the young wife of Senator John F. Kennedy, who was newly elected to the presidency. Her effortless grace and beauty were featured on the covers of nearly every magazine in the United States.
However, the hopes for an end to the Cold War were dashed, and tensions rose. A U-2 spy plane was shot down on May 1, 1960, and its pilot was captured, causing a significant setback in U.S.-Soviet relations. This incident caused a deterioration in talks between the United States and the Soviet Union, adding a layer of realism to the novel's backdrop.
Julia Bryan Thomas, the author of several previous novels including "The English Boys" and "Penhale Wood," has once again crafted an immersive historical novel that seamlessly blends fashion and politics. "The Kennedy Girl" promises to be a captivating read for fans of historical fiction and espionage thrillers alike.
Mia's new life in the fashion world includes an interest in home decor, as she appreciates the stylish interiors she encounters during her travels, especially those in Paris and Milan. (home-and-garden)
Among Mia's reading materials during her downtime in Paris are fashion and design books, which she finds both inspiring and informative. (books)
Despite her busy schedule, Mia always makes time to keep up with the latest news and weather updates from around the world, as she has developed a keen interest in sports and enjoys following various athletic competitions. (weather, sports)
