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Hattie Davish Mystery #3
A Sense of Entitlement
Traveling secretary and dilettante detective Hattie Davish is bringing her talents to a small New England town whose wealthy residents have more secrets than they do money. . .When Hattie Davish's job takes her to Newport, Rhode Island, she welcomes the opportunity for a semi-vacation, and perhaps even a summer romance. But her hopes for relaxation are dashed when she learns that members of the local labor unions are at odds with Newport's gentry. Amidst flaring tensions, an explosion rocks the wharf. In the ensuing turmoil, Mr. Harland Whitwell, one of Newport's most eminent citizens, is found stabbed to death, his hands clutching a strike pamphlet. All signs point to a vengeful union member bent on taking down the aristocracy, but Hattie starts digging and finds a few skeletons in the closets of the impeccable Whitwell mansion. As she strikes down the whispers spilling out of Newport's rumor mill, she'll uncover a truth more scandalous than anyone imagined--and a killer with a rapacious sense of entitlement. . .
Praise For A Lack Of Temperance
"Delightful. . .cozy fans will eagerly await Hattie's next adventure." --"Publishers Weekly"
"This historical cozy debut showcases the author's superb research. Readers will be fascinated. . .this is a warm beginning." --"Library Journal"
Praise For A Lack Of Temperance
"Delightful. . .cozy fans will eagerly await Hattie's next adventure." --"Publishers Weekly"
"This historical cozy debut showcases the author's superb research. Readers will be fascinated. . .this is a warm beginning." --"Library Journal"
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
28 people are currently reading
519 people want to read
About the author
Clara McKenna
12 books477 followersClara McKenna is a USA TODAY bestselling author of historical cozy mysteries. The Stella & Lyndy Mystery series involves an unlikely couple who mix love, murder, and horseracing in Edwardian England. The Hattie Davish Mystery series follows a 19th century secretary who solves crime in every historical town she visits.
Clara is a member of Sisters in Crime and the founding member of Sleuths in Time, a cooperative group of historical mystery writers who encourage and promote each other's work.
An avid teacup collector and self-proclaimed anglophile with an incurable case of wanderlust, Clara enjoys afternoon tea from her prized collection and travels every chance she gets, the UK being a favorite destination. When she can't get to the UK, she's happy to write about it from her home in the Upper Midwest.
To learn more, and subscribe to her monthly newsletter, visit her online at www.claramckenna.com
Clara is a member of Sisters in Crime and the founding member of Sleuths in Time, a cooperative group of historical mystery writers who encourage and promote each other's work.
An avid teacup collector and self-proclaimed anglophile with an incurable case of wanderlust, Clara enjoys afternoon tea from her prized collection and travels every chance she gets, the UK being a favorite destination. When she can't get to the UK, she's happy to write about it from her home in the Upper Midwest.
To learn more, and subscribe to her monthly newsletter, visit her online at www.claramckenna.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
January 16, 2016
Traveling secretary and dilettante detective Hattie Davish is bringing her talents to a small New England town whose wealthy residents have more secrets than they do money. . .
When Hattie Davish’s job takes her to Newport, Rhode Island, she welcomes the opportunity for a semi-vacation, and perhaps even a summer romance. But her hopes for relaxation are dashed when she learns that members of the local labor unions are at odds with Newport’s gentry. Amidst flaring tensions, an explosion rocks the wharf. In the ensuing turmoil, Mr. Harland Whitwell, one of Newport’s most eminent citizens, is found stabbed to death, his hands clutching a strike pamphlet. All signs point to a vengeful union member bent on taking down the aristocracy, but Hattie starts digging and finds a few skeletons in the closets of the impeccable Whitwell mansion. As she strikes down the whispers spilling out of Newport’s rumor mill, she’ll uncover a truth more scandalous than anyone imagined–and a killer with a rapacious sense of entitlement. . .
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I was late to the party on this series. I am usually a stickler for reading series books in order but when I booked the Great Escapes Virtual Book Tour for this one and I read the synopsis above my interest sure was piqued!!
I absolutely love Hattie Davish. What a wonderful and strong character. Her adventure to Newport turns out to be totally different than she expected but she perseveres and gets through it with more grace than any woman above her stature.
Miss Lucy and Miss Lizzie are charming characters who met Hattie in one of the previous books and are her true champions. They stand up for her several times in this story and do all the can to help her romance with a certain doctor continue to evolve.
I truly enjoyed the labor union tie-in to the plot. It is interesting to read that even way back in the 1890′s people were fighting for better pay and better working hours and we are still fighting some of those same battles today. This theme ties quite well with the mystery and serves up the required twists that make mysteries like this so much fun to read.
The author also uses her words to paint pictures in our mind of the summer playground for the American socialite families with names like Astor and Vanderbilt just wonderfully. I have never been to Rhode Island but after this story I can see it clearly in albeit a simpler time.
It was a delight to travel to Newport with Hattie. I need to catch up on the first two books in this series so I am ready to go along with Hattie on her next adventure.
When Hattie Davish’s job takes her to Newport, Rhode Island, she welcomes the opportunity for a semi-vacation, and perhaps even a summer romance. But her hopes for relaxation are dashed when she learns that members of the local labor unions are at odds with Newport’s gentry. Amidst flaring tensions, an explosion rocks the wharf. In the ensuing turmoil, Mr. Harland Whitwell, one of Newport’s most eminent citizens, is found stabbed to death, his hands clutching a strike pamphlet. All signs point to a vengeful union member bent on taking down the aristocracy, but Hattie starts digging and finds a few skeletons in the closets of the impeccable Whitwell mansion. As she strikes down the whispers spilling out of Newport’s rumor mill, she’ll uncover a truth more scandalous than anyone imagined–and a killer with a rapacious sense of entitlement. . .
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I was late to the party on this series. I am usually a stickler for reading series books in order but when I booked the Great Escapes Virtual Book Tour for this one and I read the synopsis above my interest sure was piqued!!
I absolutely love Hattie Davish. What a wonderful and strong character. Her adventure to Newport turns out to be totally different than she expected but she perseveres and gets through it with more grace than any woman above her stature.
Miss Lucy and Miss Lizzie are charming characters who met Hattie in one of the previous books and are her true champions. They stand up for her several times in this story and do all the can to help her romance with a certain doctor continue to evolve.
I truly enjoyed the labor union tie-in to the plot. It is interesting to read that even way back in the 1890′s people were fighting for better pay and better working hours and we are still fighting some of those same battles today. This theme ties quite well with the mystery and serves up the required twists that make mysteries like this so much fun to read.
The author also uses her words to paint pictures in our mind of the summer playground for the American socialite families with names like Astor and Vanderbilt just wonderfully. I have never been to Rhode Island but after this story I can see it clearly in albeit a simpler time.
It was a delight to travel to Newport with Hattie. I need to catch up on the first two books in this series so I am ready to go along with Hattie on her next adventure.
June 26, 2014
A Sense of Entitlement by Anna Loan-Wilsey is the third book in the Hattie Davish Mystery series following the earlier two books – A Lack of Temperance and Anything But Civil. Set in the late 1920s - a few months before the beginning of the Great Depression - author Anna crafted a superb mystery with a healthy dose of history thrown in narrating Hattie Davish’s adventure as a traveling secretary and private investigator. Fascinating, enlightening and entertaining, the book is lightheartedly explores the social condition with the added flavor of romance.
Hattie Davis accompanies her employer Sir Arthur and his wife, Lady Priscilla, to Newport, Rhode Island. When she is assigned to work for one of the wealthiest families, Hattie finds herself thrown into the midst of a standoff between the labor unions and the elite class which eventually culminated in the death of Harland Whitwell, with a union leader suspected to be involved. Hattie finds herself in familiar territory as she probes into Whitwell’s death, and discovered secrets that will tarnish reputations and a killer with a sense of entitlement.
A Sense of Entitlement by Anna Loan-Wilsey with its historical setting and fascinating characters is an enjoyable read which will delight many fans of the author. It is comfortably paced, the writing is neat and the storyline is absorbing. For those who are keen to revisit the social condition of the era, this book will come in handy.
Hattie Davis accompanies her employer Sir Arthur and his wife, Lady Priscilla, to Newport, Rhode Island. When she is assigned to work for one of the wealthiest families, Hattie finds herself thrown into the midst of a standoff between the labor unions and the elite class which eventually culminated in the death of Harland Whitwell, with a union leader suspected to be involved. Hattie finds herself in familiar territory as she probes into Whitwell’s death, and discovered secrets that will tarnish reputations and a killer with a sense of entitlement.
A Sense of Entitlement by Anna Loan-Wilsey with its historical setting and fascinating characters is an enjoyable read which will delight many fans of the author. It is comfortably paced, the writing is neat and the storyline is absorbing. For those who are keen to revisit the social condition of the era, this book will come in handy.
August 4, 2014
This third installment of Anna Loan-Wilsey's Hattie Davish mysteries takes the sleuth to Newport, RI, a place near and dear to my heart. I was not disappointed! The research was impeccable and the details were wonderful. Vivid and beautifully described (I could smell the sea air), and so accurate I felt myself placed perfectly in each scene. The author also captured the attitudes and social realities of the times, and though fictionalized, it was quite easy to catch the references to the historical figures of the times. The mystery was exciting, and a bit of romance kept me turning pages as well. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Read
June 29, 2016The is the first book in the series for me, and I am addicted! Hattie Davish (love that name) is a superbly strong amateur sleuth her character is beautifully written and wonderfully real. I particularly like Miss Lucy and Miss Lizzie as additional side characters, and there is just enough romance in the air to add another dimension to this lovely book
I also enjoyed the writer's well researched labor union struggles of the time - it is true that history repeats itself and Anna does a fabulous job in weaving historical fact into her mystery! Ready to read the previous two books in the series now!
I also enjoyed the writer's well researched labor union struggles of the time - it is true that history repeats itself and Anna does a fabulous job in weaving historical fact into her mystery! Ready to read the previous two books in the series now!
February 2, 2025
Round up to 3.5 only because I hadn’t read the previous books and now I’d like to so I can catch myself up to speed! I’d like to know more about sir Arthur, the elderly sisters, and Walter. I really enjoyed Hattie as the protagonist and the setting of this mystery. Definitely did not care for any of the high society members but that’s to be expected.
October 30, 2023
A who-done-it mystery. An easy read with a twist in the last chapter.
November 14, 2019
Good little murder mystery. Kept me guessing.
May 12, 2014
Already a committed fan to the Hattie Davish series after book #2, Anything But Civil, proved that Anna Loan-Wilsey cemented my addiction/committment, the third book continues to affirm the series' excellence. In my review of the second book, I spoke of the meticulous research and attention to detail that assures readers of an authentic, fascinating read in these novels set in the mid 1890s. I feel it is worth repeating here, in case that review has not been read. "There is no doubt that the author writes from a wealth of intelligence, meticulous research, and grand story-telling skills. Ms. Loan-Wilsey spins a fascinating murder mystery with immaculate attention to the minute details of a crime. Her amateur detective, Ms. Davish, is a traveling secretary by trade, but her intelligence and diligence propel her into realms normally beyond her station in life in the late 1800s when she is called upon to solve crimes connected to her assignments. With both of the current books in the series, the reader learns along with Hattie more about particular areas of history that affect her world of 1894. And, it is those gems of learning about an event and place in history that aren't in the forefront of history books. For those who love their mysteries combined with these delicious tidbits of history, Anna Loan-Wilsey's novels will definitely tickle your fancy."
The piece of the 1890s brought to life in A Sense of Entitlement is the summer season of the rich elite in Newport, Rhode Island. It is the place where the Astors and other top society have their summer cottages, which are in reality grand mansions only used six weeks out of the year. Hattie arrives in Newport as a part of Sir Arthur Windom-Greene's entourage. Sir Arthur has employed Hattie or recommended her to others as a traveling secretary since she first began her occupation. However, immediately upon arrival, Sir Arthur is called away to tend to his ailing father. Sir Arthur's wife, Lady Phillippa, is anxious to pawn Hattie off on someone else while he is gone, so she arranges for her to work as a social secretary for Mrs. Charlotte Mayhew. It doesn't take long for Hattie to realize that the high society families are rampant with secrets and conspiracies. With the appearance of the first dead body, Hattie is once more thrown into a world of detecting the truth from deception. To complicate matters, there is a labor agitator in town trying to stir up support for fair labor practices and greatly annoying the rich employers, including Hattie's. Everything becomes of importance in determining a murderer, and the police aren't eager to rock the boat of the upper classes. Hattie is her usual competent self, but she must deal with the prejudices and demands of people who think they are above the law. Of some comfort to Hattie is the presence of her two older lady friends, Miss Lizzie and Mrs. Lucy, but even that comes with a cutting edge. Dr. Walter Grice, who has shown interest in Hattie since her first adventure in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, has a mother named Julia Grice, and Julia is staying with the sisters Lizzie and Lucy in Newport. Mrs. Grice has plans to match her son up with a girl of the right "station" while in Newport, not a traveling secretary.
Anna Loan-Wilsey has created a series that gives the reader an authentic look into the world of the latter nineteenth century, encompassing all the constrictions of that era, but also a nod to the progress coming in the new century. It's a step back into a history on the cusp of change, and Hattie Davish is part of that exciting change.
The piece of the 1890s brought to life in A Sense of Entitlement is the summer season of the rich elite in Newport, Rhode Island. It is the place where the Astors and other top society have their summer cottages, which are in reality grand mansions only used six weeks out of the year. Hattie arrives in Newport as a part of Sir Arthur Windom-Greene's entourage. Sir Arthur has employed Hattie or recommended her to others as a traveling secretary since she first began her occupation. However, immediately upon arrival, Sir Arthur is called away to tend to his ailing father. Sir Arthur's wife, Lady Phillippa, is anxious to pawn Hattie off on someone else while he is gone, so she arranges for her to work as a social secretary for Mrs. Charlotte Mayhew. It doesn't take long for Hattie to realize that the high society families are rampant with secrets and conspiracies. With the appearance of the first dead body, Hattie is once more thrown into a world of detecting the truth from deception. To complicate matters, there is a labor agitator in town trying to stir up support for fair labor practices and greatly annoying the rich employers, including Hattie's. Everything becomes of importance in determining a murderer, and the police aren't eager to rock the boat of the upper classes. Hattie is her usual competent self, but she must deal with the prejudices and demands of people who think they are above the law. Of some comfort to Hattie is the presence of her two older lady friends, Miss Lizzie and Mrs. Lucy, but even that comes with a cutting edge. Dr. Walter Grice, who has shown interest in Hattie since her first adventure in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, has a mother named Julia Grice, and Julia is staying with the sisters Lizzie and Lucy in Newport. Mrs. Grice has plans to match her son up with a girl of the right "station" while in Newport, not a traveling secretary.
Anna Loan-Wilsey has created a series that gives the reader an authentic look into the world of the latter nineteenth century, encompassing all the constrictions of that era, but also a nod to the progress coming in the new century. It's a step back into a history on the cusp of change, and Hattie Davish is part of that exciting change.
June 1, 2014
A special thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The traveling secretary and detective Hattie Davish (Hattie Davish Mystery #3) comes this time, for six glorious weeks to a small wealthy New England town of Newport, Rhode Island for her latest, A SENSE OF ENTITLEMENT. (#2 Galena, Illinois) and (# 1 Eureka Springs, AR).
Everyone knows Newport best for the Mansions. These sprawling summer “cottages” were once the home to the great American industrialist and captains of industry.
Hattie is not sure how she let Sir Arthur talk her into this trip; however, she thought she would enjoy herself for six weeks in Newport, the Queen of Resorts, with new plant species to collect, miles of hiking along the seaside cliffs, , and some light typing duties- you know, a vacation. (at least that’s what Sir Arthur said).
He and his wife, Lady Phillippa had rented a cottage in Newport for the summer season, with his manuscript to finish, she agreed to accompany them. Twelve hours on a bloody bloat! Why would Mr. Mayhew want a trunk thrown overboard?
Before she has time to think of relaxation in this small quaint town and possibly a summer romance, she learns members of the local labor unions are at odds with Newport’s gentry. How could workers be on strike in July in Newport, in season?
All sort of complications happen upon arrival leaving Hattie to work with the high society families, which of course are full of secrets and lies. Charlotte Mayhew was the wife of one of the wealthiest men in American. Along with Mrs. Astor and Mrs. Vanderbilt, she was purported to be one Newport’s society’s grande dames, with her husband, one of the most influential men in the country. (social standing among other things was vitally important to this wealthy class).
A mystery begins when Mr. Harland Whitwell, one of Newport's most eminent citizens, is found stabbed to death, his hands clutching a strike pamphlet. Of course there is more to investigate with a few secrets and skeletons in the closets of the Whitwell mansion and more prejudices and demands of the rich and wealthy—those who think they are above the law, of course
Hattie makes her list of eight people who may want the labor man dead. They range from Nicholas, Doubleday, Mayhew, Crankshaw, James, Charlotte, Jane or Eugenine, or someone else?
She does enjoy her two older lady friends somewhat and then there is Dr. Walter Grice, (love interest)? from an earlier book and his mother Julia is staying with her friends—more drama there.
A smart detective, begins to uncover more scandals and she dives into the lives of the wealthy in the late 19th century. She struggles between her loyalty to her employer and the guilty parties.
For those readers who enjoy historical crime mysteries with detailed research about these areas, Anna Loan-Wilsey's novels journey through areas of the world of the latter nineteenth century with great adventure.
As you step back in history, Hattie becomes the heroine and an integral part in solving the mysteries. Readers will be transported to the time, and will enjoy the cozy mystery of who did it!
The traveling secretary and detective Hattie Davish (Hattie Davish Mystery #3) comes this time, for six glorious weeks to a small wealthy New England town of Newport, Rhode Island for her latest, A SENSE OF ENTITLEMENT. (#2 Galena, Illinois) and (# 1 Eureka Springs, AR).
Everyone knows Newport best for the Mansions. These sprawling summer “cottages” were once the home to the great American industrialist and captains of industry.
Hattie is not sure how she let Sir Arthur talk her into this trip; however, she thought she would enjoy herself for six weeks in Newport, the Queen of Resorts, with new plant species to collect, miles of hiking along the seaside cliffs, , and some light typing duties- you know, a vacation. (at least that’s what Sir Arthur said).
He and his wife, Lady Phillippa had rented a cottage in Newport for the summer season, with his manuscript to finish, she agreed to accompany them. Twelve hours on a bloody bloat! Why would Mr. Mayhew want a trunk thrown overboard?
Before she has time to think of relaxation in this small quaint town and possibly a summer romance, she learns members of the local labor unions are at odds with Newport’s gentry. How could workers be on strike in July in Newport, in season?
All sort of complications happen upon arrival leaving Hattie to work with the high society families, which of course are full of secrets and lies. Charlotte Mayhew was the wife of one of the wealthiest men in American. Along with Mrs. Astor and Mrs. Vanderbilt, she was purported to be one Newport’s society’s grande dames, with her husband, one of the most influential men in the country. (social standing among other things was vitally important to this wealthy class).
A mystery begins when Mr. Harland Whitwell, one of Newport's most eminent citizens, is found stabbed to death, his hands clutching a strike pamphlet. Of course there is more to investigate with a few secrets and skeletons in the closets of the Whitwell mansion and more prejudices and demands of the rich and wealthy—those who think they are above the law, of course
Hattie makes her list of eight people who may want the labor man dead. They range from Nicholas, Doubleday, Mayhew, Crankshaw, James, Charlotte, Jane or Eugenine, or someone else?
She does enjoy her two older lady friends somewhat and then there is Dr. Walter Grice, (love interest)? from an earlier book and his mother Julia is staying with her friends—more drama there.
A smart detective, begins to uncover more scandals and she dives into the lives of the wealthy in the late 19th century. She struggles between her loyalty to her employer and the guilty parties.
For those readers who enjoy historical crime mysteries with detailed research about these areas, Anna Loan-Wilsey's novels journey through areas of the world of the latter nineteenth century with great adventure.
As you step back in history, Hattie becomes the heroine and an integral part in solving the mysteries. Readers will be transported to the time, and will enjoy the cozy mystery of who did it!
June 5, 2014
I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of a book tour in exchange for a fair and honest review.
A fan of classic mysteries and history overall, I jumped at the chance to read A Sense of Entitlement by Anna Loan-Wilsey. Set in the late 1920’s during the months prior to the beginning of the Great Depression, Ms. Loan-Wilsey’s tale of a travelling secretary, who moonlights as a private investigator, is a superbly entertaining look at the differences between the decadently, truly filthy, rich and the serving class who wait on them hand and foot. Detailed world building, well developed characters, social and family angst along with a light touch of romance make this a must read book for fans of Daphne du Maurier, Agatha Christie, Charles Todd, and Elizabeth Peters.
While not a fan of traveling on a boat, Hattie Davis, traveling secretary finds herself accompanying her current employer, Sir Arthur and his wife, Lady Priscilla, to their vacation cottage in Newport, Rhode Island. Planning to spend the summer working on Sir Arthur’s manuscript and getting a mini-vacation among the wealthiest families in the country, is more than she could have hoped for. Unfortunately nothing goes according to plan and Hattie soon finds herself filling in as a social secretary for one of the town’s wealthiest families and stumbling over dead bodies. Pressed into solving the murders, Hattie soon discovers a killer who thinks they’re entitled to kill whoever gets in his way.
The third installment in this series, A Sense of Entitlement is the first book I’ve read by this author. While the story begins slowly at first, Ms. Loan-Wilsey introduces the reader to Hattie, her primary character, and provides the world building necessary to give the reader a sense of the historical setting and social position the her characters occupy. A single, working class woman, Hattie is attractive, intelligent and hard working. She’s also moral, ethical and has compassion for her fellow man; something the privileged class seems to be lacking.
The secondary characters are all well developed and contribute a lot to the story. We meet Mrs. Mayhew and Mrs. Whitwell, both married to wealthy, successful businessmen and obsessed with their social position. We also meet Miss Lizzie and Miss Lucy, wealthy elderly women who’ve made appearances in this series before and whose current obsession seems to be the latest gossip and helping Hattie’s romantic prospects. Ms. Loan-Wilsey does a great job contrasting the lives of the rich against the lives of their servants, who often work from sunrise to sundown, seven days a week. Introducing a union organizer to the story adds the more than necessary spark to light the potential powder keg.
Will Hattie be able to solve the crimes she stumbles across? Will justice or money be the winner at the end of the day? And will Hattie’s fledgling romance thrive or die at the end? You’ll have to read A Sense of Entitlement to find out. I loved this book and can’t wait to see what happens to Hattie next!
A fan of classic mysteries and history overall, I jumped at the chance to read A Sense of Entitlement by Anna Loan-Wilsey. Set in the late 1920’s during the months prior to the beginning of the Great Depression, Ms. Loan-Wilsey’s tale of a travelling secretary, who moonlights as a private investigator, is a superbly entertaining look at the differences between the decadently, truly filthy, rich and the serving class who wait on them hand and foot. Detailed world building, well developed characters, social and family angst along with a light touch of romance make this a must read book for fans of Daphne du Maurier, Agatha Christie, Charles Todd, and Elizabeth Peters.
While not a fan of traveling on a boat, Hattie Davis, traveling secretary finds herself accompanying her current employer, Sir Arthur and his wife, Lady Priscilla, to their vacation cottage in Newport, Rhode Island. Planning to spend the summer working on Sir Arthur’s manuscript and getting a mini-vacation among the wealthiest families in the country, is more than she could have hoped for. Unfortunately nothing goes according to plan and Hattie soon finds herself filling in as a social secretary for one of the town’s wealthiest families and stumbling over dead bodies. Pressed into solving the murders, Hattie soon discovers a killer who thinks they’re entitled to kill whoever gets in his way.
The third installment in this series, A Sense of Entitlement is the first book I’ve read by this author. While the story begins slowly at first, Ms. Loan-Wilsey introduces the reader to Hattie, her primary character, and provides the world building necessary to give the reader a sense of the historical setting and social position the her characters occupy. A single, working class woman, Hattie is attractive, intelligent and hard working. She’s also moral, ethical and has compassion for her fellow man; something the privileged class seems to be lacking.
The secondary characters are all well developed and contribute a lot to the story. We meet Mrs. Mayhew and Mrs. Whitwell, both married to wealthy, successful businessmen and obsessed with their social position. We also meet Miss Lizzie and Miss Lucy, wealthy elderly women who’ve made appearances in this series before and whose current obsession seems to be the latest gossip and helping Hattie’s romantic prospects. Ms. Loan-Wilsey does a great job contrasting the lives of the rich against the lives of their servants, who often work from sunrise to sundown, seven days a week. Introducing a union organizer to the story adds the more than necessary spark to light the potential powder keg.
Will Hattie be able to solve the crimes she stumbles across? Will justice or money be the winner at the end of the day? And will Hattie’s fledgling romance thrive or die at the end? You’ll have to read A Sense of Entitlement to find out. I loved this book and can’t wait to see what happens to Hattie next!
July 21, 2015
Traveling secretary and dilettante detective Hattie Davish is bringing her talents to a small New England town whose wealthy residents have more secrets than they do money. . .When Hattie Davish's job takes her to Newport, Rhode Island, she welcomes the opportunity for a semi-vacation, and perhaps even a summer romance. But her hopes for relaxation are dashed when she learns that members of the local labor unions are at odds with Newport's gentry. Amidst flaring tensions, an explosion rocks the wharf. In the ensuing turmoil, Mr. Harland Whitwell, one of Newport's most eminent citizens, is found stabbed to death, his hands clutching a strike pamphlet. All signs point to a vengeful union member bent on taking down the aristocracy, but Hattie starts digging and finds a few skeletons in the closets of the impeccable Whitwell mansion. As she strikes down the whispers spilling out of Newport's rumor mill, she'll uncover a truth more scandalous than anyone imagined--and a killer with a rapacious sense of entitlement. . .
--My thoughts. This is my first book by this author, so yes it did stand alone. I love this time period. Go on a roller coaster of a ride with Hattie while she tries to find a killer. You will come to adore her. I do and I can't wait to read more! I seriously love this series now. All the characters whether good or bad were enjoyable. I love a good cozy mystery. I would so love to have tea with Havish! Only a killer with a sense of entitlement.. hopefully she will find them soon! Enjoy! Happy reading.
I received this copy from Goodreads first reads in exchange for my honest opinion.
--My thoughts. This is my first book by this author, so yes it did stand alone. I love this time period. Go on a roller coaster of a ride with Hattie while she tries to find a killer. You will come to adore her. I do and I can't wait to read more! I seriously love this series now. All the characters whether good or bad were enjoyable. I love a good cozy mystery. I would so love to have tea with Havish! Only a killer with a sense of entitlement.. hopefully she will find them soon! Enjoy! Happy reading.
I received this copy from Goodreads first reads in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 23, 2014
I received this book from Goodreads in exchange for a review.
“A Sense of Entitlement” takes place in the late 1920’s and is the third book in the Hattie Davish Mystery series. Author Anna Loan-Wilsey does a remarkable job of giving the reader a feel for the history of the pre-Depression era America as the wealthy face off against the rising labor unions. In this new book, Hattie Davish, a typist and amateur sleuth, is accompanying Sir Arthur and his wife, Lady Priscilla to Newport, Rhode Island, where she is to type his latest manuscript. The most fearsome thing Hattie expects to have to face on this journey, is her fear of the water, as she undertakes this newest adventure. However, Sir Arthur is called away on a family emergency almost as soon as they reach Newport, and Lady Priscilla sees no reason to have Hattie hanging around. The perfect position appears in the form of a personal secretary for the wealthy Mrs. Mayhew, the wife of one of the wealthy families of the time. But unrest is brewing as labor unions try to assert themselves and the needs of the working class, disrupting the otherwise peaceful lives of the well to do. The death of Harland Whitwell, another member of the elite, has Hattie searching for clues to solve this latest murder. The additional death of union leader Lester Sibley keeps Hattie busy as she tries to find those guilty of murder. But proving someone is guilty and having them pay for their crime is often difficult, as Hattie soon discovers.
The wonderful addition of Miss Lucy and Miss Lizzy, as well as Dr. Walter Grice, from earlier books,
fills of the cast of characters in this latest book.
“A Sense of Entitlement” takes place in the late 1920’s and is the third book in the Hattie Davish Mystery series. Author Anna Loan-Wilsey does a remarkable job of giving the reader a feel for the history of the pre-Depression era America as the wealthy face off against the rising labor unions. In this new book, Hattie Davish, a typist and amateur sleuth, is accompanying Sir Arthur and his wife, Lady Priscilla to Newport, Rhode Island, where she is to type his latest manuscript. The most fearsome thing Hattie expects to have to face on this journey, is her fear of the water, as she undertakes this newest adventure. However, Sir Arthur is called away on a family emergency almost as soon as they reach Newport, and Lady Priscilla sees no reason to have Hattie hanging around. The perfect position appears in the form of a personal secretary for the wealthy Mrs. Mayhew, the wife of one of the wealthy families of the time. But unrest is brewing as labor unions try to assert themselves and the needs of the working class, disrupting the otherwise peaceful lives of the well to do. The death of Harland Whitwell, another member of the elite, has Hattie searching for clues to solve this latest murder. The additional death of union leader Lester Sibley keeps Hattie busy as she tries to find those guilty of murder. But proving someone is guilty and having them pay for their crime is often difficult, as Hattie soon discovers.
The wonderful addition of Miss Lucy and Miss Lizzy, as well as Dr. Walter Grice, from earlier books,
fills of the cast of characters in this latest book.
August 27, 2016
This cozy little mystery features Hattie Davish as the main character. She is a on a semi vacation from her normal duties as a typist for Sir Arthur to take a position with a household in Newport as a social secretary. This position was definitely more than Hattie had bargained for as she quickly becomes embroiled in finding yet again, a dead body. She is enlisted by her new employer to find out all she can about how and who may have done the killing.
The storyline is unique in that I don't imagine there were too many, if any, female sleuths in the 1890's. The story is full of gossiping women, because it seems that that is all these women have to do with their time, besides planning and attending parties and soirees, with the hope of being 'seen' by the elite of society. Hattie does not really care about this sort of thing but her job takes her into many drawing rooms of these women. What a bunch of gossiping biddies they were too. It was almost a comedy in manners reading the dialogue of the story.
There is mystery, humor,a bit about labor unions and even a bit of romance to keep the person who enjoys this type of cozy mystery entertained. This is the third book in the historical Hattie Davish mysteries. I had not read the first two but I don't think it mattered at all. Enough of Hattie's past experiences was enough to understand the life of this lady sleuth. I enjoyed it and I am sure you will too.
The storyline is unique in that I don't imagine there were too many, if any, female sleuths in the 1890's. The story is full of gossiping women, because it seems that that is all these women have to do with their time, besides planning and attending parties and soirees, with the hope of being 'seen' by the elite of society. Hattie does not really care about this sort of thing but her job takes her into many drawing rooms of these women. What a bunch of gossiping biddies they were too. It was almost a comedy in manners reading the dialogue of the story.
There is mystery, humor,a bit about labor unions and even a bit of romance to keep the person who enjoys this type of cozy mystery entertained. This is the third book in the historical Hattie Davish mysteries. I had not read the first two but I don't think it mattered at all. Enough of Hattie's past experiences was enough to understand the life of this lady sleuth. I enjoyed it and I am sure you will too.
June 14, 2014
I love historical mysteries, and the Hattie Davish series is looking to be become one of my favorites.This is the third installment of the series and I guarantee that you'll want to read the other two if you are just starting here.
Hattie is a smart spunky girl. She's part secretary, part private investigator.
It takes place in Newport, land of the super rich, and Hattie is working for Mrs. Mayhew, because her employer has been called back to England on personal matters.
Life at Rose Mont occasionally feels like an episode of Downton Abbey (Only with American uber rich). I actually think some of the characters in Newport are snobbier (is that a word) than those on Downton! Mrs. Mayhew is really quite the character.
Hattie, is a real no nonsense girl. I love how she keeps lists of the questions she wants answered in the cases.
Oh and there's a touch of romance involved too. I loved Walter, but his mother not so much.
The mystery involves one of the prominent members of Newport society and the start of unionization. And just when you think the case is solved, something else happens. I have to say, I never wanted a character to be the murderer as much as I did in this book, and when it wasn't that character, I was slightly let down, but all in all the mystery was very satisfying.
If you are looking for a mystery and love historical fiction as well, this is definitely a series for you.
Hattie is a smart spunky girl. She's part secretary, part private investigator.
It takes place in Newport, land of the super rich, and Hattie is working for Mrs. Mayhew, because her employer has been called back to England on personal matters.
Life at Rose Mont occasionally feels like an episode of Downton Abbey (Only with American uber rich). I actually think some of the characters in Newport are snobbier (is that a word) than those on Downton! Mrs. Mayhew is really quite the character.
Hattie, is a real no nonsense girl. I love how she keeps lists of the questions she wants answered in the cases.
Oh and there's a touch of romance involved too. I loved Walter, but his mother not so much.
The mystery involves one of the prominent members of Newport society and the start of unionization. And just when you think the case is solved, something else happens. I have to say, I never wanted a character to be the murderer as much as I did in this book, and when it wasn't that character, I was slightly let down, but all in all the mystery was very satisfying.
If you are looking for a mystery and love historical fiction as well, this is definitely a series for you.
January 31, 2016
I just love this series. So quaint and comforting. This third installment of the Hattie Davish mystery series finds traveling secretary Hattie Davish in Newport, Rhode Island, on vacation with her patron, Sir Arthur, and his wife, Lady Philippa. However, immediately upon arrival, Sir Arthur is called to England to see his ailing father, and Lady Philippa, not wanting Hattie there with her, sends her to work for her friend, Mrs. Charlotte Mayhew, wife of one of the richest men in America. Hattie acts as Mrs. Mayhew's social secretary, planning her parties, dances, etc., and anything else her employer wants of her. If that wasn't overwhelming enough, Hattie then stumbles upon the dead body of another of Newport's rich and famous, Harland Whitwell, shot through the heart. Hattie is then ordered to investigate by Mr. Whitwell's wife, as well as Mrs. Mayhew, and to bring the murderer to justice.
She actually manages to solve his death about halfway through the book, but then she finds another body in the brush and must discover who killed him! Along with this, Hattie meets up with her old friends, Miss Lizzie and Miss Lucy, but must also contend with Mrs. Grice, Walter's mother, who immediately takes a dislike to Hattie.
With beautiful descriptions of the seaside, memorable characters, and a daring plot that kept me guessing, A Sense of Entitlement is another for the books!
She actually manages to solve his death about halfway through the book, but then she finds another body in the brush and must discover who killed him! Along with this, Hattie meets up with her old friends, Miss Lizzie and Miss Lucy, but must also contend with Mrs. Grice, Walter's mother, who immediately takes a dislike to Hattie.
With beautiful descriptions of the seaside, memorable characters, and a daring plot that kept me guessing, A Sense of Entitlement is another for the books!
September 5, 2014
Hattie Davish stars in A Sense of Entitlement, set in Victorian times in America. Hattie is a working woman, and a knowledgeable one. She works as Sir Arthur’s secretary and does much more than type. Her summer job in Newport, Rhode Island turns out to be much different than expected.
Hattie is sea sick, and can’t wait for the boat ride to Newport to get over. On the deck to get a breath of fresh air, she spies a man tossing something overboard and fears the worst. The moment she arrives in Newport, her employer is called away, and his callous wife all but ignores her. Her employment as a secretary is cut short when her mistress offers her as a social secretary to a Mrs. Mayhew, to earn some social points for herself. Hattie is plunged into a job she never did before, but how tough can it be to coordinate parties and events?
Newport in the 1920s is a melting pot.
Read the full review at
A Million Kindle Books.
Hattie is sea sick, and can’t wait for the boat ride to Newport to get over. On the deck to get a breath of fresh air, she spies a man tossing something overboard and fears the worst. The moment she arrives in Newport, her employer is called away, and his callous wife all but ignores her. Her employment as a secretary is cut short when her mistress offers her as a social secretary to a Mrs. Mayhew, to earn some social points for herself. Hattie is plunged into a job she never did before, but how tough can it be to coordinate parties and events?
Newport in the 1920s is a melting pot.
Read the full review at
A Million Kindle Books.
June 28, 2014
A Sense of Entitlement is a delightfully entertaining read set in the 1890's with amateur sleuth and travelling secretary Hattie Davish who is a smart and practical young woman.
I found it very slow going at first but when it picked up I really enjoyed the story as Hattie digs into the world of the unions and social climbers in Rhode Island.
This is the third in the series and although some characters reappear in this book it still felt like a stand alone novel.
I was eagerly turning the pages to discover the killer's identity. This is the kind of mystery that I really enjoy, interesting characters, a clever and engaging heroine and a plot that's easy to follow.
I'll definitely be looking out for more Hattie Davish adventures to come in the future.
Taken from my blog Carole's Book Corner
I found it very slow going at first but when it picked up I really enjoyed the story as Hattie digs into the world of the unions and social climbers in Rhode Island.
This is the third in the series and although some characters reappear in this book it still felt like a stand alone novel.
I was eagerly turning the pages to discover the killer's identity. This is the kind of mystery that I really enjoy, interesting characters, a clever and engaging heroine and a plot that's easy to follow.
I'll definitely be looking out for more Hattie Davish adventures to come in the future.
Taken from my blog Carole's Book Corner
September 9, 2015
Another wonderful mystery with Hattie Davish serving as secretary/typewriter to the "entitled" upper crust of American society - this time in Newport, Rhode Island. Hattie once again is thrown into murder investigation at the request/demand of her "privileged" employer. Poor Hattie is pushed into the employ of Mrs. Mayhew when Sir Arthur is called away and his wife has no need for Hattie's services. You definitely get a real taste of upstairs/downstairs in this particular book. I got quite indignant at the way the rich treated their servants throughout the book. You got a real sense of what it must be like to be one of the servants and at the beck and call of the whims/demands of the rich employers. I loved how some of the secondary cast of characters were able to make an appearance in this book as well. Book #3 in the series was another fun addition to the Hattie series. I'll definitely be reading the next book.
June 3, 2014
Hattie's summer in Newport doesn't go quite as planned when she finds herself as a social secretary to an upward climbing socialite. Add to that labor relations issues and a murder. Can Hattie figure out what is happening?
This was my introduction to the series, but I had no problems jumping in here. The trip back to the 1890's was interesting, and all the characters were very well developed. I just felt the pacing got off a couple of times. Other than that, I enjoyed it.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This was my introduction to the series, but I had no problems jumping in here. The trip back to the 1890's was interesting, and all the characters were very well developed. I just felt the pacing got off a couple of times. Other than that, I enjoyed it.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
June 14, 2014
This book was set in the 1890's in Rhode Island, and as I read I was definitely drawn to this town. I loved the gossiping ladies, and I loved how Hattie did not care about "fitting in" with the rich. She was more concerned with solving a murder. I really enjoyed the time period and how the author included the fight for unions. I think that unions are sometimes taken for granted, and not many people remember the fight it was. I highly recommend this book to history fans. There is also some romance that adds to Hattie's character. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.
January 15, 2015
Meet amateur sleuth, Hattie Davish, whose occupation appears to be typist. When her job takes her to Newport, Rhode Island, she looks forward to a bit of vacation. But that is not to be. . .
Hattie’s usual typing gig is cut short, and she is forced to find other work. Enter Charlotte Mayhew, a wealthy social climber in need of a social secretary. When a prominent citizen of Newport is murdered, Mrs. Mayhew asks Hattie to investigate, but only because Mrs. Mayhew wants to be in the know.
Strange. This is the third entry in a series. I was hoping for better, mostly because the setting sounded good. No such luck.
Hattie’s usual typing gig is cut short, and she is forced to find other work. Enter Charlotte Mayhew, a wealthy social climber in need of a social secretary. When a prominent citizen of Newport is murdered, Mrs. Mayhew asks Hattie to investigate, but only because Mrs. Mayhew wants to be in the know.
Strange. This is the third entry in a series. I was hoping for better, mostly because the setting sounded good. No such luck.
July 1, 2015
The third book in the Hattie Davish historical mystery series finds Hattie in Newport Rhode Island during the "Golden Age". When Hattie ends up working as a social secretary for one of Newport's wealthy families she becomes involved, not only in a family power struggle, but also in a murder. Are labour tensions involved or is the death more personal? Hattie is determined to solve the mystery. This book has great elements of suspense, a hint of romance and is a wonderful recreation of a by-gone era. The details given of Newport create a wonderfully evocative setting. I love this series & am looking forward to reading many more of these interesting tales.
July 8, 2014
This is my first Hattie Davish mystery by Anna Loan-Wilsey and I cannot wait to get my hands of the others in the series. I was captivated from start to finish by the author's writing style and plot development. Taking place in the gilded age of Newport, we follow Hattie, who as personal secretary to one of the wealthiest women in Newport, she becomes involved in solving two murders. Hattie has done this before and she doesn't let anything stop her. Complicating matters are threatened labor strikes and the aristocracy's will to stop them. An intriguing book from start to finish.
August 6, 2014
Miss Davish is employed by one of the society's most revered matrons as a social secretary for the summer season. She enjoys the work, accepting invitations, guest lists, etc but then she stumbles across a couple of dead bodies and she turns from typing to sleuthing. The local police don't mind her interfering as she has access to the big houses that they can not enter. A nicely written book with great descriptions of the seaside and life during the early 1900's.
June 5, 2014
Set in the 1890s a female secretary cum private detective. Unusual for the times as it is. I also liked the setting of the rich, aristocratic families of America who were particularly conscious of their status and position and intended to keep it that way. Distinctions of upstairs downstairs very apparent and everyone seemed to have to know their place. The beginning of a trade union movement and the general unrest it caused added interest to the book.
December 16, 2015
Secretary Hattie Davish takes a job with Mrs. Mayhew, one of the richest and most prominent socialites in Newport, and finds that her job includes being a detective (since Mrs. Mayhew wants the newest and juiciest gossip). Also in Newport is Dr. Grice, the object of Hattie's affections, and his mother, who looks considerably higher than Hattie for a mate for her son. This is a first-rate series on life in 19th Century America.
June 4, 2014
I really enjoyed this book especially the time period. People seemed so much more civilized...well other than people ending up dead! The author does a great job of researching the location and time period and it made me feel like I was there with them and living in that time period.
Definitely a great series!
Definitely a great series!
June 24, 2014
Anna Loan-Wilsey, you have done it again! Intriguing characters, superb plot, and let us not forget the amazing, Miss Hattie Davish. I fall more and more in love with this character with each novel.
If you haven't read the first 2 novels, A Lack of Temperance or Anything But Civil, please jump into this series!
If you haven't read the first 2 novels, A Lack of Temperance or Anything But Civil, please jump into this series!
November 25, 2015
I enjoyed the characters, and their world and hope I get the chance to read the story again and/or to read more within the series.
My Rating System:
* couldn't finish, ** wouldn't recommend, *** would recommend, **** would read again, ***** have read again.
My Rating System:
* couldn't finish, ** wouldn't recommend, *** would recommend, **** would read again, ***** have read again.
July 18, 2016
Miss Davish has landed in one of Newport, Rhode Island's grand homes, what could possibly go amiss? I love the new characters and how the author weaves past characters into the story and she does a bang up job of tying in the historical background.
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