The Davenports
Krystal Marquis
For teenage fans of Bridgerton and The Gilded Age this is a delicious and indulgent read. It is inspired by the true story of the Patterson family who founded the first African-American car company in the early 1900’s.
Set in 1910 Chicago, the Davenports are one of the most influential Black families in the city. Their three children enjoy a life full of parties and dances with their friends as a part of the elite social scene. However, underneath this glamorous world lurk the dark stains of racism, and the legacy of slavery as four young women from across the social divide try to push against society’s expectations to follow their dreams.
This is a valuable contribution for teen readers to understand what was happening in early 20th century America and the struggles many Black people had to assert their rights. Yet despite this it is an easy light read involving strong female leads, romance and dreams.
Published by Penguin
