I absolutely loved The Davenports, so I was beyond excited to dive into the next chapter of this captivating series, and it did not disappoint! Krystal Marquis brings us right back into the glamorous world of the Davenports, and I adored getting to reunite with these characters and see their journeys continue. The romance, the drama, the historical black richness, it all came together beautifully. This book had me hooked from start to finish, and now I cannot wait for book three!

A great sequel! Can't wait for next one in series!
Great read! This book makes me want to read more from this author. Kept my attention and interest until the end.

RATING: 4 out of 5 Enchanted Roses

ONE-WORD REVIEW: Captivating

TAG LINE: They’ve found love . . . but will they keep it?

OPENING LINE: Ruby Tremaine stretched up on her toes to get a better look at the crowd.

REVIEW:

Huge thank you to James over at Penguin Teen for sending me an advanced Reader Copy of 𝑀𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓃 𝒯𝒽𝒾𝓈 in exchange for a review!

If 𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝒟𝒶𝓋𝑒𝓃𝓅𝑜𝓇𝓉𝓈 was a dazzling debut into the world of wealth, love, and ambition among Black elites in the early 20th century, 𝑀𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓃 𝒯𝒽𝒾𝓈 takes it up a notch with even higher stakes, deeper romance, and even more scandal. This sequel continues to follow Olivia, Helen, Amy-Rose, and Ruby as they push against societal expectations and try to carve out their own futures—whether that means breaking free from tradition, chasing their dreams, or risking everything for love.

Once again, Krystal Marquis delivers lush storytelling with rich historical detail that makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into 1910s Chicago. The romance is angsty, heartfelt, and absolutely swoon-worthy, with even more tension and drama that had me flipping pages like my life depended on it. Each girl’s journey feels real and deeply personal, making it impossible to pick a favorite storyline.
While the pacing dragged slightly, and there was more miscommunication than I cared for, the emotional payoff was worth it. The themes of love vs. duty, ambition vs. security, and choosing yourself resonated deeply, making 𝑀𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓃 𝒯𝒽𝒾𝓈 a fantastic continuation of this groundbreaking historical YA series.

ELEMENTS:
✨ Historical romance
✨ High-society drama
✨ Forbidden love
✨ Strong-willed heroines
✨ Black excellence in the early 20th century

Final verdict: If you loved 𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝒟𝒶𝓋𝑒𝓃𝓅𝑜𝓇𝓉𝓈: 𝑀𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓃 𝒯𝒽𝒾𝓈 is a must-read. It's Bridgerton, but make it Black history—and I am so here for it.

Happy Reading! 📖
Ashley

A great follow up! It had been a while since I read The Davenports so when I started this I was a bit confused on who everyone was but eventually caught up. I love reading about rich uppity Black people lol. Each young woman’s story was intriguing. My favorites were Ruby’s and Amy-Rose’s. I can see this story continuing because I want to know what happens next with Amy-Rose’s new life. Great read. Thanks NetGalley and Dial Books for the galley.

**Book Review: *The Davenports 2* by Krystal Marquis**

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

*The Davenports 2* by Krystal Marquis is an absolutely captivating sequel that takes everything great about the first book and elevates it to new heights. A dazzling combination of family drama, romance, and social intrigue, this book hooks you from the very first page and doesn’t let go.

Marquis continues to shine with her masterful character development. Each member of the Davenport family is beautifully fleshed out, with their own distinct personalities, dreams, and struggles. The relationships, both within the family and with others, are compelling, complex, and real. You can feel the emotional weight of every decision they make, and it’s impossible not to root for them as they navigate their individual journeys.

The plot is rich with drama, but it’s the way Marquis balances the high stakes with heartfelt moments that makes this book so special. The tension and twists throughout keep the story fresh and engaging, while the romantic arcs are sweet and swoon-worthy. Marquis blends moments of lightheartedness with deeper, more introspective themes, making this book not only an entertaining read but also one that invites reflection on family, love, and personal growth.

The pacing is perfect—just when you think the plot might slow down, something new and exciting happens that propels you right back into the heart of the action. The book’s conclusion ties up loose ends while leaving just enough room for future stories, making it both satisfying and eagerly anticipatory.

*The Davenports 2* is a must-read for fans of family sagas, romance, and drama. Krystal Marquis has truly outdone herself with this sequel. It’s a brilliant continuation of a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat while tugging at your heartstrings. Highly recommended!

I need to know there aren’t more talking about this book. I loved the first book and I was thrilled to visit The Davenport again!

I simply love the characters. Each has their own challenges and it’s done so well. There’s depth to each character and charm.

Here’s to hoping for a third book!

“𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐮𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐬, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧?”

The Davenports siblings and their friends are back!

I absolutely adored Krystal Marquis’ debut novel of four empowered Black women in 1910 Chicago searching for love and purpose; I was so happy to have them return in More Than This. Olivia, Helen, Ruby and Amy-Rose remain as charming as ever. I was easily drawn back into their world as they fight for love and purpose. It was great to see them each experience success as they each came into their own: Amy-Rose with her salon, Olivia with her activism, Ruby with her passion for fashion design, and Helen pushing for change and a seat in the family business. Of course, these were balanced with each woman finding love. Marquis develops the love stories well with just enough drama from some newer characters that it’s sometimes hard to choose which suitor is best! There were moments that the book is slower-paced and at first, the stories felt a bit too separate; I especially missed the interaction between Ruby and Olivia. Marquis did reward my patience with a few solid scenes where all the characters come together, but I could’ve used more. To me, the story really shines when we can see the friendships all the characters (the females and males) have with each other.

The Davenports: More Than This ties up loose ends well. If this is the end, I am content, but I really hope it isn’t. I love reading about this family, their friends, and their successes. Thank you to Penguin, Dial Books & NetGalley for the ARC!

Krystal Marquis has done it again with The Davenports: More Than This, delivering a dazzling sequel that expands upon the rich, immersive world of the Davenport family. This novel continues to weave together themes of love, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams, all set against the backdrop of the early 20th century.
The characters—especially the Davenport sisters—shine even brighter in this installment. Their growth is beautifully developed, and their personal journeys are compelling, filled with resilience and heartfelt emotion. Marquis masterfully balances romance with deeper societal themes, making the novel both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The writing is exquisite, with lush descriptions that transport readers straight into the elegance and vibrancy of the era. The historical details are impeccably woven into the narrative, making the story feel authentic and alive. The relationships—both romantic and familial—are full of tension, warmth, and charm, keeping readers eagerly turning pages.
If you loved The Davenports, you will be absolutely enchanted by More Than This. It’s a story of love, independence, and carving one’s own path, and it cements Krystal Marquis as a powerhouse in historical fiction. Highly recommended!

4 stars! This is the 2nd book in The Davenports series and while I didn't enjoy it as much as I liked the first one, I still really liked it. I enjoyed revisiting the characters and seeing their stories continue. I love the representation of the young Black women as they follow their paths towards happiness, whatever that looks like for them. I look forward to reading more by Ms. Marquis in the future! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was a refreshing and captivating experience, and I found the writing to be both engaging and accessible. The story flowed smoothly, making it easy to stay connected to the plot and characters without feeling lost or overwhelmed. The author struck a perfect balance, keeping things interesting while still making the content feel approachable. Overall, it was a wonderful read, and I would definitely recommend it to others who are looking for an enjoyable and easy-to-digest book.

I really want to love this series, but I can only honestly say that I like it. The characters are interesting and mostly likable. The plots just fall kind of flat for me. There was a lot going on with so many main characters. It also felt like there wasn't much going on though. I found myself getting bored at times. That said, this book is on par with the one before it and it was good to see things get tied up nicely for all the girls.

I read an ARC of this book from NetGalley. All comments are my own.

The Davenports: More Than This was okay, but I enjoyed the first book more. The characters are still charming, and I liked seeing where their stories went, but the pacing felt off at times. Some plotlines didn’t grab me as much, and the spark that made the first book so fun wasn’t quite there. Still, if you liked The Davenports, it’s worth a read—just not as exciting as I hoped.

More Than This is the sequel to The Davenports, and was just as much a delight to read as the first. I truly believe that Marquis has created some really great characters in the Davenport family and the people in their orbit, and I really enjoyed seeing them develop here.

More Than This picks up shortly after the events of its predecessor, and we get to catch up with all four of the girls. It's been almost two years since I read The Davenports, so I don't remember every detail, but still it was pretty easy to slip back into the story. Self-assured Olivia finds herself at a crossroads when her heart is torn between Washington DeWight and a new suitor that her parents are pushing on her, Helen is trying to assert herself as a proper member of her family's business while navigating her growing feelings for a man, Ruby is happily engaged but has to deal with the fallout of somebody spreading nasty rumors about her and how that impacts her family dynamics, and Amy-Rose navigates the opening of her hairdressing salon while also grieving the sudden death of her mentor. What really struck me while reading this book was how multifaceted all these girls were. They each cared about so many different things that sometimes seemed to conflict with one another, and arguably, this book is about realizing that it's okay to care about many things while also acknowledging that not everything can guide your choices (and that you have to decide which do). I also once again liked the interplay between all the girls' love stories.

Seriously, a stunning book.

Book 2 in the Davenport series was very enjoyable.
I feel like the young ladies really came into their own. There was a lot of growth and self reflection in book 2.

Special thanks to the author & @penguinteen for my gifted copy‼️

Picking up where book 1 left off The Davenports are back and standing on business. I know I’m not the only one who noticed how the tension with the parents eased up a lot in this one. The author also picked the perfect title for it “More Than This.” All of the characters wanted more than what their lives and parents were currently offering. They wanted more than what the standards set by their reputations and wealth would force them to become.

Olivia still on her journey for political power and pursing a secret relationship her parents weren’t aware of. Helen who is still my favorite character she’s fierce, determined, and rebellious all for the sake of independence and keeping her hands in the family business. If “You can’t tell me what to do” was a person it would be her. Ruby and her family are dealing with rumors that could ruin her father’s future as mayor. We see Amy-Rose boss up owning her own salon and John well he’s still being his swoony self like before.

There’s still a strong connection with the characters and we’re given multiple POVs same as before but I felt something was missing. Or maybe I wasn’t as engaged with it. But I did love how the author tied up all the loose ends providing closure with all the characters. We finally see everything they’ve worked towards become reality.

Overall, book 2 was decent we’re introduced to some new characters and see the return of a few old characters from book 1. We get some family drama and relationship drama that will leave both Helen and Olivia torn between the two. If you’re a fan of YA or historical fiction add this to your TBR.

1⭐️

DNF: 15%

It is with a heavy heart that, after reading only 15%, I have to DNF this book, let alone this entire series. And I truly wish the circumstances were different. Part of my failed experience is my own fault. More Than This was one of my “MOST ANTICIPATED” reads of last year. But, because I had so many other ARCs and Library Books to read in front of it, I had to wait until this year to start it. By waiting as long as I did, I forgot most of Book #1, which led to me feeling disconnected from the both the characters of this new book as well as their storylines. After only 15%, I start to feel myself zone out during multiple chapters and I was also reminded of why I was so angry with the ending of Book #1. THESE PARENTS ARE AWFUL TO THEIR CHILDREN!!! And it has been getting on my nerves!!!

Which leads to my second reason for DNFing this book.

Twice now, I have read a YA novel where parents have failed their children in the way they either speak to them or treat them. In More Than This, it is Ruby’s storyline that pushes this type of parental behavior over the edge. Hints of her father thinking so negatively about her (i.e., possibly slut-shaming her) is where I have to draw the line. And to watch her father disrespect not only his daughter but his future son-in-law in the same sentence is a BIG NO for me!!! I cannot read this book and continue to witness both The Tremaine and Davenport parents treat their children like crap.

And while I am aware that this is Historical Fiction and just a book, as a reader who reads to escape, I cannot read such a book that makes me both cringe and uncomfortable. SORRY!!!

However…

Do not let my DNF review discourage you from reading or enjoying this novel. With such a BEAUTIFUL cover, it is worth giving a change. Unfortunately, this is where I sign off.

I want to wish Krystal Marquis all the positive vibes and well wishes on her future endeavors, especially her writing career. Best of luck to you!!!

Thank you NetGalley and Dial Books for granting my request of an Advance Reader’s Copy in exchange for my honest and personal opinion!!!

While the first book had its faults, I liked it enough I wanted to continue with the second but unfortunately I liked it even less. Just very repetitive and boring all around, a sequel was pretty unnecessary

So this is the sequel to the Young Adults Favorite Fiction Award for 2023 and I had high hopes after the first one! Krystal did not disappoint! The setting reminds me of Bridgerton but in American with Historical factors that definitely resonated with readers and the fact that these stories are inspired by real people and events! It's so inspiring and the concept romanticizes me. Thank you so much Krystal Marquis, Publisher, and Netgalley!

I enjoyed being back in the world of The Davenports! There were so many engaging stories to follow from beloved characters in the first book but also new characters that were introduced. I loved the themes of self discovery and finding your voice. I loved that this had romance but wasnt the sole plot. It was realistic in allowing the FMC to explore her love interests. Overall enjoyable read!

This book was a solid 3 for me. I loved the concept of a prestigious black family navigating their way in a climate where being Black and successful is seen as a threat. Each of the Davenport children has forged a path for themselves and work to find their own voices and experiences outside if the life and luxury they live in. Overall, I felt this book needed more. It felt rushed and left me wanting more in a different way. Book 1 was in my opinion, not fast paced but gave me more in depth about the characters