“She writes lyric, luminous prose; her craft is so strong it becomes transparent, and, like the best of storytellers, she knows how to get out of the way so that the story can tell itself.”
SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE
Moses Bailey, a preacher’s son, forbade his fiddle-loving wife Kate Malone to play. But while he was gone on his travels, looking for God, Kate couldn’t help herself, and began fiddling for her three children. For the love of music, Kate is willing to defy anyone who tries to stop her. From generation to generation, the gift and love of music cannot be stopped, and no Malone is immune from its spell.
Dive into the captivating world of Lee Smith's *Devil's Dream*, a spellbinding family saga that explores the enduring power of music and the unbreakable bonds of kinship across generations. This acclaimed novel, published by Ballantine Books, delves into the lives of the Malone family, whose fate is inextricably linked to the alluring call of the fiddle. Set against the backdrop of the American South, *Devil's Dream* introduces us to Kate Malone, a spirited woman trapped in a marriage with Moses Bailey, a preacher's son who vehemently opposes her love for music. When Moses departs on a quest to find God, Kate defies his rigid constraints and joyfully embraces her passion, sharing the magic of her fiddle with her three children. This act of rebellion sets in motion a chain of events that reverberates through the Malone family for years to come. More than just a story about music, *Devil's Dream* is a poignant exploration of love, loss, defiance, and the complexities of family relationships. Lee Smith masterfully crafts a narrative that weaves together the individual stories of each Malone family member, revealing their unique struggles and triumphs. From the challenges they face in their personal lives to the enduring legacy of music that binds them together, each character is richly developed and unforgettable. Lee Smith, a celebrated Appalachian author, brings her signature storytelling prowess to *Devil's Dream*. Known for her authentic portrayal of Southern life and her ability to create compelling, relatable characters, Smith has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following. Her writing style has been praised for its lyrical beauty, insightful observations, and ability to capture the nuances of human emotion, a critic from *San Francisco Chronicle* lauded her work stating, "She writes lyric, luminous prose; her craft is so strong it becomes transparent, and, like the best of storytellers, she knows how to get out of the way so that the story can tell itself." With its blend of historical detail, captivating characters, and thought-provoking themes, *Devil's Dream* has resonated with readers and critics alike. This moving novel is perfect for fans of literary fiction, genre fiction, family sagas, psychological dramas, and contemporary stories. Discover the magic and charm of *Devil's Dream* and immerse yourself in a world where the power of music transcends generations. This paperback edition contains 320 pages of unforgettable storytelling. Experience the captivating tale that has touched the hearts of readers worldwide. Don't miss your chance to own this captivating novel by one of America's most beloved storytellers.