The Devil and Mrs. Davenport Audiobook By Paulette Kennedy cover art

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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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 Magical Realism Thriller & Suspense Scary

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
Gripping Thriller • Unexpected Twists • Fantastic Narration • Feminist Themes • Paranormal Elements • Beautiful Voice
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Wow, I loved this book! Great narration and plot. One of my favorite audio books in a long time.

What a great book!

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I really enjoyed this book and performance! The characters were great and believable. The author did a wonderful job remaining true to the era as well. I will be recommending this one to friends.

Wow

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This book was such a refreshing change of pace from the last few books that I’ve read. This time the plot wasn’t driven by the bad choices the female protagonist makes. Loretta was smart, capable, and realistic. The author wrote her as an example of a woman of her time, without making her simple or outdated. Her frustration was valid, and it made her feelings of helplessness and confinement in the life she was stuck in all the more painful. You want the best for her, you celebrate her wins and are saddened by the outside forces that push her down. I love the paranormal aspect of the book, but honestly, I forgot about it at times as I just wanted to root for Loretta. I love Loretta and I think she’ll be a favorite main character for me for a long time.

I will think of this book fondly for a long time

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Loved the time period and the details. Loved the mystery. Though I knew what would happen I couldn’t wait to see how it would unfold.

Great audio book

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What a book!! Perfect for lots of book club discussion. It was a tough listen at points but so very well written.

Wow

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Did not like Peter! loved Loretta and the awesome women who helped her. They were wonderful people to put themselves out there for her

The narrator, She did a fantastic job!

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Such a well written mid-century masterpiece! Although frightening, it should be a warning, as our history seems to be repeating itself.

Mid Century Gothic!

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There isn’t one thing I enjoyed first of all the narrator in audible made the story. Great thriller great flow and love Loretta’s storyline and growth

Epic Story Telling

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Could not put this down! Great story, but absolutely heartbreaking at times. First book I’ve read by this author and looking forward to reading more.

Hooked from the start!

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I would like to give a big hug to the book community for bringing this book into my life! All of the elements in this story are right up my alley! I loved the 1950’s house wife era that was introduced. I loved the Loretta character so much that she is now one of my favorite women leads. Adding along Loretta’s special abilities and the mystery element, this was chef’s kiss all the way. It’s been a little bit since I have absolutely loved a book like this. So different and unpredictable! I also loved the authors note at the end! I would definitely love reading more from this author. I highly recommend to everyone that wants to find the next best book!

I need more stories like this one!

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