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

What a great book!

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Wow

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

The narrator, She did a fantastic job!

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

Mid Century Gothic!

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

Suspense and a thriller

Wow this book! Set in the mid 1950s. Loretta is a 27 year old wife ( I hate the term housewife but it seems to be coined in the 50s) she is married to Pete, a professor at a religious college, she had two kids. After a brief illness she is plagued by visions. What happens next is a roller coaster of events. I found myself thinking of my grandmother and the rights a woman didn’t have in the 1950s. A woman in this time couldn’t open a bank account or cash a check without a male relative to vouch for her. I loved this book and the strength of Loretta was palpable. 5 Stars

My First of Many Paulette Kennedy Books

I rarely leave reviews because I’m far too lazy, but this book deserves all the praise that can be typed. I started this book yesterday and finished today! This is my first Paulette Kennedy and I absolutely love the characterization and plot construction in this book. The discussion of womanhood, sexism, and the nuclear family really resonated with me. I will definitely be reading more Paulette Kennedy in the future!!