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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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 Magical Realism Thriller & Suspense Scary Fantasy Fiction Marriage Exciting Mystery Suspense Paranormal Witchcraft

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

What listeners say about The Devil and Mrs. Davenport

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Engaging Storyline Unexpected Twists Fantastic Narration Compelling Mystery Intriguing Paranormal Aspect
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Great audio book

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.

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Wow

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

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What a great book!

Wow, I loved this book! Great narration and plot. One of my favorite audio books in a long time.

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Almost five stars!

I was on the edge of my seat most of this book and couldn't put it down, but the sappy ending was kind of a let down for me

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Wow

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.

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I will think of this book fondly for a long time

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.

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Fantastic work from my new favorite author

Paulette Kennedy has done a fantastic job making me feel genuinely that I was in the 50s, living life alongside Loretta as she battled the forces of life, and those beyond. Fantastic storytelling, and absolutely fantastic narration. 10/10 100 gold stars.

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Good from the jump

I did not think I would like this as much as I did. I haven’t seen much traction on it. But cool story, great main character, plot twist I did see coming but loved how the author unveiled it.

The setting being in the 1950s was such a reminder of how far women have come.

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loved the story line and lay out.

wonderful quick read, can't put it down, really sucks you in as and makes you feel like you become apart of the book

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Loved it but could have had better narration

This is an excellent story but the narrator was annoying at times for me. She does a great job at some of the characters voices but the narration is just- meh. I LOVED the storyline however - it kept me on the edge of my seat and I finished this book in 3 days.

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1 person found this helpful