The Davenports Audiobook By Krystal Marquis cover art

The Davenports

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The Davenports

By: Krystal Marquis
Narrated by: Joniece Abbott-Pratt
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*Instant New York Times Bestseller*

The Davenports delivers a totally escapist, swoon-worthy romance while offering a glimpse into a period of African American history often overlooked.

"The perfect read for fans of escapist historical fiction.” —NBC’s TODAY


The Davenports are one of the few Black families of immense wealth and status in a changing United States, their fortune made through the entrepreneurship of William Davenport, a formerly enslaved man who founded the Davenport Carriage Company years ago. Now it's 1910, and the Davenports live surrounded by servants, crystal chandeliers, and endless parties, finding their way and finding love—even where they’re not supposed to.

There is Olivia, the beautiful elder Davenport daughter, ready to do her duty by getting married . . . until she meets the charismatic civil rights leader Washington DeWight and sparks fly. The younger daughter, Helen, is more interested in fixing cars than falling in love—unless it’s with her sister’s suitor. Amy-Rose, the childhood friend turned maid to the Davenport sisters, dreams of opening her own business—and marrying the one man she could never be with, Olivia and Helen’s brother, John. But Olivia’s best friend, Ruby, also has her sights set on John Davenport, though she can’t seem to keep his interest . . . until family pressure has her scheming to win his heart, just as someone else wins hers.

Inspired by the real-life story of the Patterson family, The Davenports is the tale of four determined and passionate young Black women discovering the courage to steer their own path in life—and love.
Black Creators Romance Historical Heartfelt Feel-Good African American Historical Fiction

Mic Check with Joniece Abbott-Pratt

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Editorial Review

It’s a family affair
As an avid Bridgerton fan who is eagerly awaiting the next installment, I was delighted when I heard about Krystal Marquis’s debut YA title. Set in 1910 Chicago, this fictional tale was inspired by the family of real-life inventor Charles Patterson, who founded a thriving business in carriage making and eventually started the first African American–owned automobile manufacturer. In this story, everything I didn’t know I was seeking for my next listen unfolded before me: Romance, heroines rebelling against social constructs, a thoughtful exploration of what it meant to be a successful Black person navigating society in the early 1900s and the weight they carried. Joniece Abbott-Pratt’s narration captures the energy of the characters and vibe of the time with thoughtful cadences and endearing rasps. If you are looking for a listen that boasts not only heart but depth, The Davenports is for you. —Kelley S., Audible Editor

Historical Representation • Rich Character Development • Engaging Love Stories • Black Excellence Portrayal

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I hope there’s a second book! I enjoyed it a lot! The story educated and inspired me.

Awesome New View

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I really enjoyed this book! Many times, I’m hesitant about period pieces that speak to the Black experience because they highlight Slavery or Jim Crow. While those are significant pieces of history they are also depression and get me upset. So many of our people were well off and successful and I love that the author struck a balance between the atrocities of American History and our success. Well done! And thank you for the history lesson at the end!

Loves This Book!

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I really enjoyed this book but I gave it 4 stars because it left us hanging and I'm not a fan of books that do that.

Great story, but needed closure

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Like many others, I truly enjoyed this book. I read some chapters and listened to some. However, I am hoping the ending was left the way it was to lead us into the next book.

Great Read

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i couldn't stop listening. All the characters were well fleshed out and the lives intriguing. The end of the story left a lot to be desired. Maybe there will be a follow up?

Boom to Bust

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