Texas: 1931. It’s the height of the Great Depression, and Bonnie is miles from Clyde. He’s locked up, and she’s left waiting, their dreams of a life together dwindling every day.
When Clyde returns from prison damaged and distant, unable to keep a job, and dogged by the cops, Bonnie knows the law will soon come for him. But there’s only one road forward for her.
If the world won't give them their American Dream, they'll just have to take it.
The story of Bonnie and Clyde is infamous. Everyone knows how they lived
and died. Their cross country crime spree is the stuff of legend. Jenni L Walsh first dove into what made a woman like Bonnelyn turn to a life of crime with Clyde Barrow in Becoming Bonnie. In Side by Side she shines that same spotlight on their crime spree and ultimately humanizes them in the process.
The research that went into this novel is evident in every meticulous detail. It's like a snapshot of what Bonnie and Clyde's life on the run would have been like, and what that era in general was like for people living in it. It's setting at times feels disjointed as a result of the duo crisscrossing the country to evade police. This, however, fit the tone perfectly and ensure that the reader felt as disoriented as Bonnie did sometimes. These elements are all a testament to the strong writing that is within this book. Jenni L Walsh makes you feel like you are there experiencing it with the characters.
Many portrayals of Bonnie and Clyde treated their crime spree in a glamorous manner. They tend to gloss over the realities that would have come with the lifestyle they were living. The sleepless nights on the road. The constant worry that would have plagued them. The injuries that were never tended to properly. This portrayal makes it sound exhausting and horrific. It never erases what they've done, but makes you feel sympathy in a way that I am not sure other adaptations of managed quite so effectively.
The bond between Bonnie and Clyde must have been strong for them to have stood by each other during everything that happened. Jenni L Walsh weaves in the love they had for each other into every decision that is made. It's evident in every part of their journey. It makes your connection to the characters stronger because you become invested in ther connection to each other.
We all know how the story of Bonnie and Clyde ends. It's an ending that always haunted me. I think it is a large part of why their infamy remains long after their lives ended. It's a tragic ending to an already tragic story. Their ending is handled perfectly within this book, as is the betrayal that facilitates it. It resonates in a way that ensures you feel it, and allows it to linger. It is, perhaps, one of my favourite parts of this well crafted read.
Jenni L Walsh weaves a heart tugging, gripping, and realistic portrait of two people who become criminals out of circumstance. It is a perfect follow up to Becoming Bonnie and a must read for anyone interested in Bonnie and Clyde, or just wants a really great historical read. It, once again, boasts a strong character voice and ensures that I'll be reading anything else Jenni L Walsh writes next.
True Crime Week continues with a guest post from Jenni L Walsh. Her novel, Becoming Bonnie, is inspired by the infamous Bonnie and Clyde. It's a must read for fans of novels inspired by true crime and offers up a grounded, humanizing look at the women who would become one half of the most infamous crime duo in history.
It also happens that Becoming Bonnie is on sale. It is currently on sale at many ebook retails for $2.99! That's less than your daily coffee order, and such a steal for this amazing book. You can read the first half of Bonnie's story before the companion novel, Side by Side, released on June 5th.
Limited Time! #BecomingBonnie—story of Bonnie before Clyde—is $2.99
"Rollicking narrative will have readers rooting for Bonnelyn-turned-Bonnie every (dance) step of the way."-Shelf Awareness
Jenni is also offering up a special pre-order incentive for Side By Side. If you pre-order and follow the instructions on her website you can get a package of goodies that includes temporary tattoos, bookmarks and a signed book plate.
Amazing right? I definitely need to submit my own pre-order to snag these goodies. However, there is also the chance to win an amazing prize pack when you submit your pre-order. One lucky winner will receive a tee shirt, Bonnie and Clyde wine glasses, custom Bonnie and Clyde magnetic bookmarks , and an amazing mug.
I am personally keeping my fingers crossed that I get selected for this amazing prize pack. Those wine glasses are amazing. I love them!
Be sure to pre-order your copy from the retailer of your choice and take advantage of this incentive!
Jenni was kind enough to share a guest post with me about the allure of Bonnie and Clyde that exists even after all of these years. It's a fantastic read and I am so thrilled to be sharing it with you. A huge thank you to Jenni for taking the time to write it.
Bonnie and Clyde: America’s Outlaws
Often when thinking about criminals or outlaws, Bonnie and Clyde come to mind. While the duo found themselves in various headlines throughout their twenty-seven month crime spree, it wasn’t until their deaths in May of 1934 that “Bonnie and Clyde” became fixtures in American history.
To this day, Bonnie and Clyde remain polarizing figures, their names frequently in the media. The phrase “modern-day Bonnie and Clyde” is often given to male/female criminal partnerships, especially when the couple is romantic. Two capybaras—quickly given the names Bonnie and Clyde—made headlines after the rodents escaped a Canadian zoo. Like it or not, Bonnie and Clyde are infamous.
I asked a group of individuals what the names “Bonnie and Clyde” were synonymous with for them. As expected, their answers varied.
Some reiterated history’s portrayal: criminal duo, bank robbers, gangsters, outlaws, doomed lovers.
Others attributed nouns, such as guns, death, dangerous, violence.
A few individuals responded with how Bonnie and Clyde exhibited sociopathic or psychotic behaviors and how their relationship was toxic. This answer didn’t come as a surprise; hybristophilia—when a female is attracted to a person who has committed an outrage or a gruesome crime—is called the “Bonnie and Clyde Syndrome.”
Adversely, a responder said, “I’ve always wondered what the love connection must’ve felt like between them… Bonnie entered a life of crime because she loved him so fiercely.” Another said, “I think of their close relationship first.” A third said, “dangerously in love.” These responders are not alone in their reactions. A quick scan of #BonnieandClyde on Twitter is littered with phrases of solidarity between couples, such as “I got your back gurl” and “partner in crime.” Sometimes the hashtag is accompanied by additional sentiments like #MyBestFriend #LoveHim
I’ll admit my own interest in Bonnie and Clyde was originally sparked by their loyalty and devotion to one another. I had been brainstorming a historical topic for my novel, when “Bonnie and Clyde” surfaced. I had seen the film, but over a decade prior, and it was their partnership I recalled the strongest in that moment. Curiosity filled me and I began to dig into their story. Bonnie was a church-going, straight-A girl with big dreams for herself. Clyde made multiple attempts at an honest life, before turning to violence. These interesting tidbits strengthened my desire to understand who they were at the core. So I set out to tell their tale, in Bonnie Parker’s voice, beginning before she ever met Clyde Barrow, before their crime spree, before any victims.
In my novel, Becoming Bonnie, I gave her a fictional name—Bonnelyn—and sought to show her evolution from a wholesome young woman to a gun-wielding gal—Bonnie—who was willing to risk it all for a fella named Clyde. In the companion novel, Side by Side, releasing on June 5, 2018, I explore their ultimate fate: death, danger, and violence. Ultimately, there’s much more than expected behind the infamous Bonnie and Clyde.
Begin Bonnie’s story with Becoming Bonnie, which is on sale for $2.99 until April 16th!
The next book is on my list is actually a companion novel to a book that was featured last year. Jenni L Walsh's Becoming Bonnie was a highly anticipated read of mine from last year and the follow up, Side By Side, was instantly added to my list after reading the first one.
I was so excited to return to these characters, and this version of Bonnie and Clyde that Jenni has created. I fell in love with her characters, particularly her Bonnie, and was eager to continue their story even knowing the tragic ending that awaits them.
The Goodreads synopsis for this novel immediately sets up the crime spree as the focus for this companion novel, where Becoming Bonnie was more of a look at the woman who would become the infamous Bonnie Parker.
How do two poor Texas kids become notorious outlaws? Bonnie Parker tells the story of America's most infamous crime spree in her own words
"Someday they'll go down together / they'll bury them side by side. / To few it’ll be grief / To the law a relief / But it’s death for Bonnie and Clyde.”
The story of America’s most infamous crime spree told in the raw and honest voice of the woman who lived it, Bonnie Parker.
Texas: 1931. Bonnie Parker’s dreams of the limelight and a white picket fence are on hold. She’s a waitress in Dallas, endlessly writing letters to the governor pleading for the release of the man she loves: a reckless, quick-smiling boy named Clyde Barrow, sentenced to fourteen years at the notorious Eastham prison farm.
When Clyde is paroled early, Bonnie thinks their life is about to really begin. But Clyde has changed in prison. Distant, damaged, and dogged by the cops, he knows it’s only a matter of time before the law tries to lock him up again. That’s not something he or Bonnie can bear. When he’s fired from his job—and now breaking parole—he decides to make a run for it. Leave Texas. Get enough cash to make a fresh start in a new state. And, of course, he wants his beloved Bonnie to come with him.
It’s just one stolen car. One robbed bank. Then, they can have the life they always wanted. Or so they think, as they set out.
Unflinching and yet deeply empathetic, Jenni L. Walsh’s Side by Side tells the story of America's most iconic outlaws.
This sounds amazing, right? The good news is that Side by Side can be read as a stand alone novel. You can dive in without having read Becoming Bonnie. I do, however, urge you to read Becoming Bonnie. It's wonderful, and a great read for the upcoming holiday season.
Jenni, very kindly, agreed to take part in my event again this year and the result is the very fun interview where I get her to spill some Bonnie secrets.
1. What gif do you think describes Side by Side?
Well, we've got the obvious Bonnie and Clyde gif...
And then, as I'm a Disney fan, here's one from Aladdin, where he's got to stay "one jump ahead" (and may get a little cocky as he does it).
2 If a signature cocktail were to be made in honour of Side by Side what do you think would be included?
How 'bout the "Hot N Sassy" for Bonnie Parker, as this namesake seems to fit her character well!
1 oz. Pucker Vodka Sour Apple Sass
3 slices jalapeños
2 slices clementine
Splash of lime juice
1 oz lemon-lime soda
Muddle jalapeños and clementines in a cocktail shaker. Add vodka and ice. Shake and strain into a glass. Add lime juice and soda. Stir.
Source: Pucker Vodka
3 How would you describe Bonnie and Clyde's relationship at the beginning of the novel?
Painfully distant, as Clyde's in jail! Their only communication is through letters. Though, Bonnie is writing to more than Clyde. She's also writing to the governor, hoping for an early parole for Clyde.
4 Those who are familiar with the story can assume that history catches up to your Bonnie and Clyde. Was it difficult to write their ending?
Yes, in fact, there were many elements of the story that were difficult to write, like when Bonnie wakes up from a coma...
The 1967 film is entertaining and well done (hello numerous Academy Awards!), but leaves out some MAJOR elements of Bonnie and Clyde's crime spree, along with fictionalizing quite a bit. I wanted to include as much as I could, and do it as factually as I could, in Side by Side.
5 Did you feel any pressure writing about people who actually existed?
Yes and no. "Bonnie and Clyde" is well-document, but through various sometimes contradictory sources. This allowed me to pull from LOTS of information and also perspectives, giving me a bit of wiggle room to tell my story. More so than writing about historical figures, I felt more pressure writing about polarizing figures from history. Being the story is told through Bonnie's eyes, I sometimes had to remind myself to let Bonnie be Bonnie.
6 What 2018 book are you most excited about?
These books are across various age groups, but... My Dear Hamilton, I Was Anastasia, Nothing But Sky, Blood and Sand, and The Inventors at No. 8. They all may be historical :)
7 If not too spoilery, please share the first line of Side by Side.
I’m a fool for busting Clyde out of McClelland County jail.
That opening line has me all kinds of intrigued and excited! The "Hot N Sassy" certainly sounds like it'll fit this Bonnie Parker perfectly and I am very tempted to give it a try while reading this. Seems like it would pair nicely.
The amount of research that Jenni did was quite evident in Becoming Bonnie and I cannot wait to see that attention to detail carry over to the rest of their story.
Side by Side releases June 5, 2018 but you can pre-order it right now from any retailer.
You can find out more about Jenni by following her on Twitter, and by visiting her her website. You can also find out more about her books on the publisher website.
Are you a fan of books that are inspired by real events? Are you as excited as I am that Becoming Bonnie has a sequel? Let me know what you think in the comments.
Be sure to stop by tomorrow to for the next book on my 2018 most anticipated list.
It's that time of the week again. Time to show you what bookish goodies made their way into my home and book closet (to be saved from the evil book eating cat monster named Aria). This is inspired by the various "mailbox" posts out there (eg. In My Mailbox by The Story Siren, and Stacking the Shelves by Tynga's Reviews)
Lots of exciting titles made their way onto my book shelves this week. I purchased quite a few books this week and a few of them were impulse buys.
I am super excited that today is the release day for Jenni L Walsh's Becoming Bonnie!
It's no secret that I have been excited about this release, and that I loved the book. I posted my gushy review for it yesterday and you can finally snag your own copy in stores today!
In case you somehow missed it, here are the details about the book:
From debut historical novelist Jenni L. Walsh, Becoming Bonnie is the untold story of how wholesome Bonnelyn Parker became half of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde duo!
The summer of 1927 might be the height of the Roaring Twenties, but Bonnelyn Parker is more likely to belt out a church hymn than sling drinks at an illicit juice joint. She’s a sharp girl with plans to overcome her family's poverty, provide for herself, and maybe someday marry her boyfriend, Roy Thornton. But when Roy springs a proposal on her and financial woes jeopardize her ambitions, Bonnelyn finds salvation in an unlikely place: Dallas's newest speakeasy, Doc’s.
Living the life of a moll at night, Bonnie remains a wholesome girl by day, engaged to Roy, attending school and working toward a steady future. When Roy discovers her secret life, and embraces it—perhaps too much, especially when it comes to booze and gambling—Bonnie tries to make the pieces fit. Maybe she can have it all: the American Dream, the husband, and the intoxicating allure of jazz music. What she doesn't know is that her life—like her country—is headed for a crash.
She’s about to meet Clyde Barrow.
Few details are known about Bonnie's life prior to meeting her infamous partner. In Becoming Bonnie, Jenni L. Walsh shows a young woman promised the American dream and given the Great Depression, and offers a compelling account of why she fell so hard for a convicted felon—and turned to crime herself.
If all the buzz hasn't already sold you on picking up a copy, perhaps this excerpt will. It's the first chapter, and it'll definitely make you want more immediately.
Now you probably want to run out and get your own copy. It is all available at all major book retails.
Jenni has also provided this AMAZING giveaway consisting of the coolest mug ever!
Amazing, right? Along with this envy inducing mug, Jenni is giving away a $25.00 Amazon gift card! Be sure to enter using the Rafflecopter below for your chance to win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Lastly, here is a little about the author, and where you find her online to share your Becoming Bonnie release day excitement and love!
Jenni L. Walsh spent her early years chasing around cats, dogs, and chickens in Philadelphia's countryside, before dividing time between a soccer field and a classroom at Villanova University. She put her marketing degree to good use as an advertising copywriter, zip-code hopping with her husband to DC, NYC, NJ, and not surprisingly, back to Philly. There, Jenni's passion for words continued, adding author to her resume.
From debut historical novelist Jenni L. Walsh, Becoming Bonnie is the untold story of how wholesome Bonnelyn Parker became half of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde duo!
The summer of 1927 might be the height of the Roaring Twenties, but Bonnelyn Parker is more likely to belt out a church hymn than sling drinks at an illicit juice joint. She’s a sharp girl with plans to overcome her family's poverty, provide for herself, and maybe someday marry her boyfriend, Roy Thornton. But when Roy springs a proposal on her and financial woes jeopardize her ambitions, Bonnelyn finds salvation in an unlikely place: Dallas's newest speakeasy, Doc’s.
Living the life of a moll at night, Bonnie remains a wholesome girl by day, engaged to Roy, attending school and working toward a steady future. When Roy discovers her secret life, and embraces it—perhaps too much, especially when it comes to booze and gambling—Bonnie tries to make the pieces fit. Maybe she can have it all: the American Dream, the husband, and the intoxicating allure of jazz music. What she doesn't know is that her life—like her country—is headed for a crash.
She’s about to meet Clyde Barrow.
Few details are known about Bonnie's life prior to meeting her infamous partner. In Becoming Bonnie, Jenni L. Walsh shows a young woman promised the American dream and given the Great Depression, and offers a compelling account of why she fell so hard for a convicted felon—and turned to crime herself.
Everyone knows the story of Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. It is one that has inspired countness other stories to be told. The fact that their story has been told many times before makes finding a unique one a bit of a magical occurrence. Not only is Becoming Bonnie unique, but Jenni L Walsh has crafted a spellbinding read that transports you to the 1920s with ease. It also introduces an unforgettable young woman whose story becomes her own, and not just as part of a duo.
The hook may be the Bonnie and Clyde inspiration but make no mistake, this is Bonnie's story. She isn't merely sharing the spotlight with Clyde, and that made all the difference. Anything inspired by this infamous duo typically focuses on them as a pair, or even centers Clyde as the focus and I was pleasantly surprised to find this novel was not going to do this. This novel allowed Bonnie to be her own person and as a result I feel the reader really gets to know her and understand her motivations. Her journey from the 'good girl' who is scandalized at the thought of a speakeasy to the woman who will eventually join Clyde in their infamous crime spree is gradual. This ensures that the transformation is believable. Her characterization is the main reason her story works, and great care is put into crafting Bonnelyn as someone you'll connect with and understand. Her character development stands out in this gem of a novel and she felt like a friend by the time I turned the last page.
Clyde's introduction to Bonnie's story starts out with a bang, but is actually more muted than you might anticipate. This Clyde is someone this Bonnie can relate to, and someone that would believably turn her head. He's not as flashy as some of men she firsts meets at the speakeasy but there is something magnetic about him and an underlying confidence. They share a desire to help their families and the want for a simple life. Jenni L Walsh makes you instantly believe their attraction, and shows how the wholesome young woman we meet in the beginning of the novel becomes the kind of woman who could fall for a man like Clyde Barrow.
The setting, and essence of the 1920s is brilliantly captured within these pages. The imagery is so vivid and descriptive that you feel transported. The detailing and care that went into capturing the day of the stock market crash was especially noteworthy. You felt the desperation, panic, and fear. It's a harrowing scene that backdrops the latter half of the novel perfectly. I could easily see this as a limited series on television and that is, in large part, due to the vibrancy Jenni L Walsh's writing has.
While I won't spoil where Jenni ends this chapter of her Bonnie and Clyde tale, I will say that it is the perfect ending for this part of their story. There is a bittersweetness to knowing a sequel is coming. You want more time with these characters, and you're left on the cusp of what is going to be an incredible part of their story. At the same time, you've been made to care about these characters and fate is going to catch up to them. We know how their story ends, and that thought is never far from your mind as you are reading. It tinges every element of this story with a bittersweetness even as you fall deeply in book love with this world and the characters.
A story that dares to look at the well known story of Bonnie and Clyde from a different perspective. It, for me, was the perfect blend of commercial and literary with this becoming a fast paced, well written read. It's a must for your beach bag this summer and I predict many sunburns as people become engrossed in Bonnie's story. This is a must read for anyone who saw photos of Bonnie Parker and immediately wanted to know more about her, and wondered what her story was.
The awesome Kelly at KellyVision started posting a weekly post highlighting whatever she happened to be obsessed with that week. I LOVE this idea, so much in fact that I will be doing it myself every Saturday.
A small Weekly Obsessions post this week, but some pretty exciting things!
BOOKS Being Bonnie by Jenni L Walsh (goodreads)
I have not yet read Becoming Bonnie but I was thrilled when the sequel was announced! I am excited to read it and will be reading Becoming Bonnie soon (probably this weekend) and am looking forward to continuing her story in this sequel!
Renegades by Marissa Meyer (goodreads)
Marissa Meyer is writing a super hero/super villain story! I cannot wait. This is going to be amazing! It is the first in a series about a school for those with super powers. It sounds incredible and I am excited to pre-order it as soon as it comes available. TV/MOVIE Big Little Lies
I very much enjoyed the pilot episode of Big Little Lies. I am hooked on the mystery and the three main cast (Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, and Shailene Woodley) all deliver great performances so far. I am excited to watch the second episode this week and highly recommend it if you like sudsy murder mysteries. OTHER My Favorite Murder Podcast (link)
I stumbled upon this quirky podcast and immediately became obsessed. It won't be for everyone, but those who would be into it will be super into it. The hosts are hilarious and approach the topic in a very relatable way. It's a podcast about murder done through the female gaze and quite feminist. I highly recommend it if it sounds like something you would enjoy. I am currently making my way through all of the 'episodes' and I am honestly loving them.
Funko's Disney Subscription Box
Funko is known for having some pretty amazing subscription boxes for the Marvel, Star Wars, and DC fandoms. They have recently announced that they are launching a new subscription box specifically for Disney fanatics. They are calling it Disney Treasures and I am so excited.
The first theme is Pirates Cove and they've announced that the first Pop being included is Smee from Peter Pan! All the items in the box are exclusive to the box only and will offer at least one Pop figure in each box. You can learn more over at the Funko blog by reading the official announcement. You can also sign up for notifications about Disney Treasures and be one of the first to sign up for this when it goes live by visiting the Disney Treasures official site.
From debut historical novelist Jenni L. Walsh, Becoming Bonnie is the untold story of how wholesome Bonnelyn Parker became half of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde duo! The summer of 1927 might be the height of the Roaring Twenties, but Bonnelyn Parker is more likely to belt out a church hymn than sling drinks at an illicit juice joint. She’s a sharp girl with plans to overcome her family's poverty, provide for herself, and maybe someday marry her boyfriend, Roy Thornton. But when Roy springs a proposal on her and financial woes jeopardize her ambitions, Bonnelyn finds salvation in an unlikely place: Dallas's newest speakeasy, Doc’s. Living the life of a moll at night, Bonnie remains a wholesome girl by day, engaged to Roy, attending school and working toward a steady future. When Roy discovers her secret life, and embraces it—perhaps too much, especially when it comes to booze and gambling—Bonnie tries to make the pieces fit. Maybe she can have it all: the American Dream, the husband, and the intoxicating allure of jazz music. What she doesn't know is that her life—like her country—is headed for a crash. She’s about to meet Clyde Barrow. Few details are known about Bonnie's life prior to meeting her infamous partner. In Becoming Bonnie, Jenni L. Walsh shows a young woman promised the American dream and given the Great Depression, and offers a compelling account of why she fell so hard for a convicted felon—and turned to crime herself.
I have always been fascinated by Bonnie and Clyde. Bonnie in particular has always held a certain allure. There is something about her that has always made me want to know more.
Jenni L Walsh's book is more focused on Bonnie than it is Clyde and that feels unique and refreshing to me. She was a force in her own right and I cannot wait to see Jenni's take on this young woman.
I, also, happen to be giving away an ARC of this right now! Be sure to enter.
It's already time for me to begin showcasing my 2017 Most Anticipated titles. I love this annual event because it not only allows me to talk about books I am super excited about but it lets me feature some pretty awesome authors. I have a bunch of amazing sounding books to share over the next couple weeks so I hope you are prepared for your 'to be read' pile to grow.
The first book is technically an adult novel but one with tons of YA crossover appeal. It introduces us to the young lady who would become half of one of the most recognizable crime duos in history.
Its 1920s setting and real life inspiration of Bonnie and Clyde ensured that this one would be on my list this year. Their story has always fascinated me, particularly Bonnie.
If that was not enticing enough, check out this Goodreads synopsis! I appreciate that this is going to focus on Bonnelyn before she meets Clyde. I also love that the cover showcases that it is HER story.
From debut historical novelist Jenni L. Walsh comes the untold story of how wholesome Bonnelyn Parker became half of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde duo.
The summer of 1927 might be the height of the Roaring Twenties, but Bonnelyn Parker is more likely to belt out a church hymn than sling drinks at an illicit juice joint. She’s a sharp girl with plans to overcome her family's poverty, provide for herself, and maybe someday marry her boyfriend, Roy Thornton. But when Roy springs a proposal on her and financial woes jeopardize her ambitions, Bonnelyn finds salvation in an unlikely place: Dallas's newest speakeasy, Doc's.
Living the life of a moll at night, Bonnie remains a wholesome girl by day, engaged to Roy, attending school and working toward a steady future. When Roy discovers her secret life, and embraces it—perhaps too much, especially when it comes to booze and gambling—Bonnie tries to make the pieces fit. Maybe she can have it all: the American Dream, the husband, and the intoxicating allure of jazz music. What she doesn't know is that her life—like her country—is headed for a crash.
She’s about to meet Clyde Barrow.
Few details are known about Bonnie's life prior to meeting her infamous partner. In Becoming Bonnie, Jenni L. Walsh shows a young woman promised the American dream and given the Great Depression, and offers a compelling account of why she fell so hard for a convicted felon—and turned to crime herself.
A novel that puts Bonnie at the forefront is a welcome change and I cannot wait to meet Jenni L Walsh's Bonnie Parker. It sounds like a lot of research went into this book and that only makes me more excited to read it.
Jenni and I did a little Q and A which I hope will entice you to check out this book and add it to your own 'to be read' list for 2017. 1 Twitter pitch Becoming Bonnie (140 characters or less)
The untold story of how seventeen-year-old Bonnelyn Parker becomes half of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde duo during the Roaring Twenties.
2 If someone were to make a signature drink in honour of your book, what might be included?
Love this question. Just so happens Becoming Bonnie is set in a speakeasy, where the drinks flow freely, and this scene makes for a fitting answer, from Bonnie’s point of view.
On edge, I
keep my head down, focus on the work.
That is, ‘til
a boy steps up to the bar—the boy from the other night with the lopsided grin
who looked like he had so much to say.
“Gin Rickey,
please,” he says now, ignoring Blanche, his eyes narrowing in on me.
Gin, lime, sugar, soda.
Loudly, I set
them out for Blanche to do the mixing, annoyed with myself when my hand shakes
from the intensity of his gaze
“No,” he says
to me with a cocky smirk. “I’d like you to fix my drink.”
If Blanche
wasn’t so amused, I think she’d be mad at his brush-off. But no, she pushes the
small of my back ‘til my stomach bumps the bar. “Go on,” she whispers into my ear.
I
know how to make the drink, been watching Blanche do it all night, but I’m only
seeing black spots where Pour gin and
lime juice over ice, top with club
soda should be.
3 What about Bonnie and Clyde's story resonated with you enough that you wanted to write your own take on their story?
At some point during my adolescent years, I saw the Bonnie and Clyde film from the 60s. The violence didn’t stick with me, but, all these years later, their loyalty (and love and passion) toward one another did. It made me wonder who they were besides outlaws. And I thought, I need to write that book.
4 What was the most surprising thing you discovered about Bonnie and Clyde while researching this novel?
They’re both musically inclined. Clyde played the saxophone and the guitar, while Bonnie had a healthy set of lungs. Bonnie also loved the written word and penned a lot of poetry. I sort of mashed these interests together to create an element of Becoming Bonnie that was so much fun to write: an original song. As Bonnie and Clyde face each new obstacle of the book, they write a new verse.
5 Name a song you listed to for inspiration while writing this novel?
I don’t typically listen to music while I’m writing, but songs influence me greatly while I’m brainstorming. I’ll often go to a run to rejuvenate my mind, and one song that kept coming onto Pandora was The Big Big Bang by Rock Mafia. The energy and vibe of the song had me itching to get back to my computer.
6 If you could travel to anywhere, in any time period, when and where would you want travel?
I’m from Philly, and I think it’d be insanely interesting to walk the streets, explore the buildings, and navigate the city as it was, compared to how it is now. Here is Independence Hall in 1770s, when Philadelphia was the capital of the United States, compared to present day.
7 What 2017 release are you most anticipating?
I’m part of The Debutante Ball, so I’d be remiss not to mention the other amazing authors in the group. I’ve read their books and they are phenom.
Small Admissions by Amy Poeppel Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson Caged Eyes by Lynn K. Hall Feast of Sorrow by Crystal King 8. If not too spoilery, can you share the first line of Becoming Bonnie?
But I, being poor, have only my dreams.
Anyone else swooning over what I assume is a scene where Bonnie and Clyde meet? That smirk. The whole 'I'd like you to fix my drink' thing and how flummoxed Bonnie appears. I am pretty sure this book is going to have its share of swoon worthy moments and I cannot wait. Also, how fitting is it that a Gin Rickey would be this novel's signature drink?
Becoming Bonnie releases May 9, 2017 and can be pre-ordered right now from any retailer.
Jenni has kindly offered up an ARC of Becoming Bonnie (when available) and a set of Bonnie and Clyde keychains. They are amazing and I kind of want to keep them for myself.
Just enter using the below Rafflecopter. It's open INTERNATIONALLY and will run the entire length of the event.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Are you a fan of historical novels? Does the Bonnie and Clyde story hold the same allure for you as it does for me? Let me know what you think in the comments.
Be sure to stop by tomorrow to find out the next book that made this year's list!
The awesome Kelly at KellyVision started posting a weekly post highlighting whatever she happened to be obsessed with that week. I LOVE this idea, so much in fact that I will be doing it myself every Saturday.
This week has been filled with exciting reveals and happenings! There is so much to be excited about and obsessed with. BOOK Cover of Becoming Bonnie by Jenni L Walsh (goodreads)
I have been super excited about this book since I first heard about it and was thrilled when the cover was released. I think it captures what this book is about perfectly.
I love the 1920's/1930s feel of this cover. Her dress especially. I also love that Bonnie was put on the cover by herself. They didn't feel the need to squeeze in Clyde. This is Bonnie's story and I love that they allowed her centre focus. TV/MOVIE Merry Christmas Will Byers (a Stranger Things/Charlie Brown mashup)
I am a huge Stranger Things fan. HUGE. The second I saw this I knew I was going to love it. It's cute, and rather perfect and combines one of my favourite Christmas classics with the new cult hit.
Obviously it has SPOILERS for the first season of Stranger Things so only watch if you've finished the first season (and if you haven't go do that).
Super cute, right? I love the little details they put in and it has only made me want season two all the more. Good job to whoever created this! It's amazing.
Beauty and the Beast Entertainment Weekly cover
OTHER Stranger Things Funko Pops
Stranger Things is getting the Funko Pop treatment and needless to say I was pretty excited to find out these were going to be a thing I could purchase. I CANNOT WAIT! How amazing are these? They are so perfect! You can bet these will be joining my ever growing collection (I did mention I was obsessed with this series).
I have already pre-ordered most of these and will be on the look out for that Upside Down Will ThinkGeek exclusive, and the blonde wig wearing Eleven variant (she's apparently going to be hard to get). They'll be in stores in January of 2017 but are up for pre-order at most locations.
Jessica Jones Funko Pop
Jessica Jones is not only one of my favourite Netflix series, but she's also one of my female characters. I love that she's flawed, and owns it. I was thrilled with Funko announced that she'll be getting the Pop treatment and her Pop is pretty much perfect.
I am totally going to have to pre-order here. She'll be available sometime in early 2017!
The awesome Kelly at KellyVision started posting a weekly post highlighting whatever she happened to be obsessed with that week. I LOVE this idea, so much in fact that I will be doing it myself every Saturday. BOOK Becoming Bonnie by Jenni L Walsh (goodreads) I've been waiting for this to go up on Goodreads since I saw the deal announcement. I cannot wait for this. I've been looking for a really well done Bonnie and Clyde story and I have high hopes that this will be it. Go add it and join me in pining away for it from now until it's May 2017 release. TV/MOVIE Guilt TV Show
This Amanda Knox inspired TV show caught my eye recently because Anthony Stewart Head was recently cast. It'll air on Disney's new Freeform network (home of Pretty Little Liars and Shadowhunters) and it sounds like it could be pretty good if done right. It is shooting in London which already means I'll love the backdrop to this murder mystery. The premise is that an American goes to school overseas and is accused of killing her roommate. Anthony Stewart Head is playing the stepfather of the accused from what I understand. You can find out more on the Freeform website. Lucifer Season 2 Renewal
I was thrilled when it was announced that Lucifer would be getting a second season. The cast is my favourite part of this show, along with it's humour and willingness to not take itself seriously. I cannot wait for more Chloe and Lucifer scenes! OTHER 1 month until BEA
We are a month away from BEA! I am really excited to meet everyone. Will you be at BEA? Let me know in the comments!
