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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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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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HOW is this book now talked about more 😱 Not only is this book a 5 star God tier book for me but it has very quickly moved itself into a top 3 spot of t my favorite reads of all time! I literally devoured this book I wish I could start it again for the first time. I’ve never wanted to skip to the end of a book so much before! And I mean that in the most positive way!! My anxiety through this book was through the roof. The characters I loved I loved so much but the characters I didn’t (or character) Oh boy did I want my anger to explode with them. Loretta will forever be a character that stays with me ❤️

One of my favourite books of all time

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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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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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Enjoyed this book from start to end.
Makes you think, what poor women had to endure back in those days.
Also love the physic element to the story.

Loved every minute of this book!

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