Voodoo Dreams

A Novel of Marie Laveau

By: Jewell Parker Rhodes

Narrated by: Peter Francis James

Spanning six decades of the 1800s, this mesmerizing story is a fictional biography of Marie Laveau - one of the most haunting characters in New Orleans’ history. Part of a long line of voodoo priestesses and healers, Marie tells of the mystery, passion, and violence that pattern her life. Like her grandmother, Marie sees visions from an early age. She never knew her mother, who practiced a spiritualism so potent she was murdered by those who feared her. When Marie becomes a healer, she discovers a supernatural force that can channel the power of her ancestors. But it is a ferocious force driven by both life and death.

Author Jewell Parker Rhodes has been awarded a National Endowment for the Arts and is a professor of American literature and creative writing at Arizona State University.

©1993 Jewell Parker Rhodes (P)2001 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

"All the ingredients of a bewitching read - atmosphere, adventure, mystery, and romance - as well as enough intellectual substance to give it a satisfying heft." ( Kirkus Reviews)

couldn't stop listening

The story truly draws you in and the vocal performance is absolutely amazing! I absolutely couldn't stop listening.

excellent on all levels

I loved this book. i don't like writting reviews. So you'll have to read it for yourself.

A bit course, but interesting.

Any additional comments?

This is one of those listens that is a great story, but not always an enjoyable read. There are many course and caustic characters and events that make it a rough story to enjoy at times. Overall, though, I enjoyed learning and experiencing this story and would love to read more on both the topic and by this author.

Entertaining

The story is good, not great.
The primary narrator was great. But whoever dubbed over him in numerous spots irked my soul.

The story was ok

Like the story plot, did not like how Marie was made weak for a man. A significantly older man that was abusive, and predatory. I didn’t like that her grandma did not prepare her. Did not like the narrator. Will look for his name before choosing another book.

Voodoo Dreams

Struggled at times to get through the book. Often the story seemed to drag with unnecessary details or extreme areas of filler. The cruelty of Marie Laveau's handler and so-called lover John, at times made me question her senses or supposed voodoo powers. How or why would she have put up with him and his sidekick Natty so long? A bit of a let down, especially with her final days.

Narration would have been much more interesting with a female voice, since the main character was a woman and her grandmother!

Still as good as when I read it years ago.

I was worried it might not stand the test of time. I read it years ago when it first came out. I may have loved it even more this time.

just wanted to read something about Voodoo🤷🏿‍♂️

**Synopsis:**
"Voodoo Dreams" is a captivating novel that intertwines the themes of love, spirituality, and the struggles of identity against the backdrop of 19th-century New Orleans. The story follows the life of an enslaved woman named Marie Laveau, who is destined to become the iconic Voodoo Queen of New Orleans. As she navigates her painful past, Marie's journey explores the complexities of her heritage, the power of her beliefs, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through her connection to Voodoo, Marie not only seeks to reclaim her own identity but also to empower her community in the face of oppression.

Jewell Parker Rhodes masterfully combines historical elements with magical realism, creating a rich tapestry that immerses readers in the mystical world of Voodoo. The novel delves into Marie's relationships, her struggles with love and loss, and her ultimate quest for freedom and self-acceptance.

**Quotes:**
1. "Voodoo is not just a religion; it’s a way of life—an expression of love, pain, and the unbreakable ties between people."
2. "In the shadows of the night, spirits linger, whispering secrets of the past and hopes for the future."
3. "To be free is to embrace who you are, unafraid of the chains that once bound you."
4. "Love is a powerful magic, capable of healing wounds that time cannot touch."
5. "The ancestors walk beside us, guiding our steps as we navigate the tangled paths of our lives."

**Conclusion:**
Jewell Parker Rhodes’ "Voodoo Dreams" is a beautifully crafted narrative that not only entertains but also educates readers about the rich cultural heritage of Voodoo. With its lyrical prose and deeply resonant themes, the novel is a profound exploration of identity and resilience. Rhodes’ portrayal of Marie Laveau is both inspiring and poignant, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of history, spirituality, and personal empowerment.

Colorful verbal illustrations...

Excellent character development I truly enjoyed the tone and pace if this story. This is a colorful legend and the author did wonderful job with the verbal illustrations that translated effortlessly into the tapestry of all the story entails. The narration was sublime as well. I highly recommend this title to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with fare, a little raunch and a whole lot of soul.

LONG story but creatively interesting

I know it's been said before in other reviews but it's true - there is amazing character development in this novel. The story seemed 20 hours too long for a novel at times, but I truly loved the creativity and authenticity in the writing. I felt like I was observing the story live rather than visualizing the story unfold. Jewel Parker Roads out did herself in telling the story of the legend of Voodon and how it passed down through bloodlines during the slavery era.
Sometimes the story felt like it dragged a bit (IMO) but never left you asking "where did this part fit in the story"

Ancestors trying to make a better life for their children and their children's children, is the basis of the cruelty and understanding of Marie Laveau and her attempts to seek answers. Marie's so-called abusive lover John, and family friend Natty made me question Marie's strength as a woman under the age of 20. and if Marie would ever come into her own supposed voodoo powers.

I was hoping for a different ending. Not sure what - but felt disappointed and empty after 20 hours of listening to twists and corruption to have the book end as it did. Perhaps if some of the area's of the book was condensed to see how Marie lived in her golden years with her daughter?

Narrator Peter Francis James did an amazing job providing lilt, punch and charisma to each character.