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The Devil and Mrs. Davenport

A Novel

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The Devil and Mrs. Davenport

By: Paulette Kennedy
Narrated by: Lauren Ezzo
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About this listen

The bestselling author of The Witch of Tin Mountain and Parting the Veil mines the subtle horrors of 1950s America in a gripping novel about a woman under pressure—from the living and the dead.

The first day of autumn brought the fever, and with the fever came the voices.

Missouri, 1955. Loretta Davenport has led an isolated life as a young mother and a wife to Pete, an ambitious assistant professor at a Bible college. They’re the picture of domestic tranquility—until a local girl is murdered and Loretta begins receiving messages from beyond. Pete dismisses them as delusions of a fevered female imagination. Loretta knows they’re real—and frightening.

Defying Pete’s demands, Loretta finds an encouraging supporter in parapsychologist Dr. Curtis Hansen. He sees a woman with a rare gift, more blessing than curse. With Dr. Hansen’s help, Loretta’s life opens up to an empowering new purpose. But for Pete, the God-fearing image he’s worked so hard to cultivate is under threat. No longer in control of his dutiful wife, he sees the Devil at work.

As Loretta’s powers grow stronger and the pleading spirits beckon, Pete is determined to deliver his wife from evil. To solve the mysteries of the dead, Loretta must first save herself.

©2024 by Paulette Kennedy. (P)2024 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved. Genre Fiction Gothic Historical Horror Magic Magical Realism Thriller & Suspense Scary Fantasy Fiction Marriage Mystery Suspense Paranormal Witchcraft

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Critic reviews

“Shirley Jackson fans will appreciate this novel with a distinct vintage vibe; readers of gothic and supernatural titles will be drawn in by the book’s feminist empowerment narrative.”—Library Journal

“With a mystery that steadily builds, this gothic novel masterfully captures the horrors and sexism of 1950s suburbia. A bewitching page-turner with author Kennedy's signature: a strong heroine who cleverly navigates twist after twist.”—Booklist

“There is a bit of romance, and a theme of embracing one’s true self. This is a satisfying mix of historical mystery and paranormal fiction that fans of those genres will enjoy. Highly recommended.”—Historical Novels Review
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Good listen. A bit slow to start and nearly gave up. But stick with it it is worth it. Good insight in to the life of these women on that time of life and in the years. Will listen to more.

interesting listen

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Brilliant book, check for TW.
This book covered so many different topics, and done so well. I look forward to to reading more from Kennedy.

Absolutely loved it

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I just rated this as five stars but the review showed up as two and it won't let me edit!

Wrong star rating!

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Loved this story and the mix of genres. It totally absorbed me and dropped me straight into the 1950s suburbs, living the life of a trapped housewife. The paranormal element was done tastefully and therefore didn't feel fantastical. The narration really enhanced the character of Loretta.

Absorbing paranormal tale

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I couldn't stop listening! it was gripping and frightening, mainly due to the way women were treated in the 50s. Highly recommended

Gripping and Enlightening Story

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I downloaded this on audible after I’d seen it recommended by someone online. I started it on Thursday, finished it today ( Sunday), it was such a good listen! I’d highly recommend this one.

Excellent story, intriguing, well written

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What an incredible story. I was horrified by how women were treated during this time, very eye opening. Fantastic story

Wow!

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5 star read, I’m obsessed! Can’t wait to read more books from this author. Off to check her backlist!

Incredible story & narration

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This is a tricky one to review. The mistreatment and poor rights of women in 1950’s America was shocking and very upsetting. It actually had me almost screaming at the injustice. To believe this went on so far into the 20th Century was hard to comprehend. Then again when I think of the injustice and mistreatment faced by women today around the world it isn’t really that surprising. For parts it was almost like reading a story set in the Victorian era. For this part of the story I would give 5 stars as it moved me so much.
However, I found the other part of the storyline a little disappointing. Maybe because I am used to more horror and thriller it felt a little predictable and I think it could have been stronger.
The audiobook was, for the most part, well done by Imogen Church. In fact she was the deciding factor in my choosing this audiobook. There were a few times some voices became a little indistinguishable. Maybe due to the passionate way it was read due to the nature of parts of the story.
All in all 3 1/2 stars. I would recommend for those interested in Womans roles at this time and a mild-ish murder mystery.

The oppression of women at the time

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