Davenport House is the first book in a family saga following the wealthy Davenports and their servants in 1915 America.Mary Davenport is a 22-year-old idealist who worries that the world in the Progressive Era is leaving her behind. She lives isolated in the Pennsylvania countryside with her affluent and secretive family. When her father dies suddenly, Mary becomes pained with grief and … and increasingly suspicious of those around her.
A humble servant girl has the chance of a lifetime to become a lady’s companion. Costly dresses, exquisite rooms, and fine dinners are pleasant distractions from what is really happening in the house.
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I finished this book because I thought the story line was interesting. The writing was simple and jumped form one group to another without warning.
Once started couldn’t put it down till it was done. Wanted to know what was going to happen.
I enjoyed this author’s entire series. Well told stories that keep you wanting more.
I really enjoyed reading the trauma the family went through. It showed loyalty, love for a sister and courage. It kept my interest and tried all the loose strings for a solid ending.
This is a book that is set about 1915. Dad is a loving man with a wonderful daughter. The mother is a witch who’s only love is her drunkard son. This story is set have the father tragically dies. Mother does try to keep her daughter from the reading of the Will which turns everything upside-down.
Couldn’t even finish this one. Terrible grammar and absolutely no detail to the story.
Very descriptive and a great plot.
If you ever liked Downton Abbey, this is a definite read.
Kept my interest all the way through..
I would be intised into ready the next books of the series because I felt compelled to read as often as I could. The antagonist and protagonists were infectious.
It was so good that I just kept buying all eight books.
Wonderful! Like watching Downton Abbey! Twists and turns and lots going on.
I enjoyed this book and will look for more in this series. The characters and story line were very realistic.
This book is worth reading, just for the wonderful ending.
This plot was filled with intrigue, injustice, and pain. While class separation is usually a part of a British lit novel, it existed in our country, too. While I know there are a number of prequels and sequels to this novel, I found the wording too stilted and elementary to read the rest.
Kept my interest without being heavy
I liked the strong female characters. It was easy to like them and frustrating to deal with the female villain (who was well-written)..
Not a ton of intrigue, but much drama. I would have liked to see more character development. I look forward to the next book. This was pretty short.
Boring and contrived.
Enjoyed reading this book.