The Devil and Mrs. Davenport

A Novel

By: Paulette Kennedy

Narrated by: Lauren Ezzo

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.

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

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.

I didn’t think I would Like this book

The feminism aspect of this book is something I have missed.
Misogyny has been raising its head for the past few years and trying to
Bring back the way women have been treated at mid century and at other times. I am so sorry for our daughters if our future course does not change. My god is a loving kind god who wants good thing for his children.
It seems like many religions have a different god than the one I grew up with …it is scary out there

Honestly, the follow up of the author's note after finishing an awesome story.

I loved it all. I do not generally listen to the author's note but something hooked me after enjoying every bit of the book. The author has done an excellent job highlighting current issues in a SUPER entertaining way. I love books set in this time period. The similarities to current issues are abundant. How things change. But don't at the same time....

Sucha Crazy ride to 1950s

The performance is at peak.., the writing the delivery everything is fresh and an amazing experience. Must listen in out present bleak times for women,,,

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.

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

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.

I didn’t want it to end

The book was perfect, I enjoyed it so much. I stumbled upon it and I feel so lucky I did. It was that good.

Quick read

I’d say this is a a psychological suspence piece. Mrs Davenport is a homemaker with a very religious, professor husband. She is only seen has a caregiver of the home and kids. Her husband is not thrilled when she shares with him her visions. I guessed the plot twist.

I almost gave up. I'm glad I didn't.

Don't let the breathy narathon at the start of the book put you off. It picks up and is engaging until the end.