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The Haunting of Hattie Hastings #1
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings
Some people just won't take death lying down …!
Part one of a fun-filled but moving romantic comedy about life, death and letting go.
Hattie Hastings is happily married, even if husband Gary drives her up the wall at times. When tragedy strikes, she is left alone and heartbroken, with only an assortment of family and friends to prop her up.
Struggling to cope, she is left reeling when her deceased other half returns to haunt her, popping up at the most inappropriate times, with an unorthodox way of flagging his arrival.
Hattie struggles to convince anyone that Gary has returned. Not even her best friend, Cat – now free from the cruel and controlling Stewart – will believe her story.
Why has Gary returned? Will he allow Hattie to find happiness again, or will he stand in the way of any future romance? And what will Cat do when her slimy ex-husband tries to worm his way back into her affections?
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings will make you laugh, cry and count the weeks until Part Two …
Part one of a fun-filled but moving romantic comedy about life, death and letting go.
Hattie Hastings is happily married, even if husband Gary drives her up the wall at times. When tragedy strikes, she is left alone and heartbroken, with only an assortment of family and friends to prop her up.
Struggling to cope, she is left reeling when her deceased other half returns to haunt her, popping up at the most inappropriate times, with an unorthodox way of flagging his arrival.
Hattie struggles to convince anyone that Gary has returned. Not even her best friend, Cat – now free from the cruel and controlling Stewart – will believe her story.
Why has Gary returned? Will he allow Hattie to find happiness again, or will he stand in the way of any future romance? And what will Cat do when her slimy ex-husband tries to worm his way back into her affections?
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings will make you laugh, cry and count the weeks until Part Two …
97 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2017
23 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
Audrey Davis
11 books107 followersAudrey Davis survived secondary school on the West coast of Scotland. Rubbish at science but not too bad at English, she originally wanted to be an actress but was persuaded that journalism was a safer option. Probably wise. She studied at Napier College in Edinburgh, the only place in Scotland at that time to offer a journalism course.
Her first foray into the hard-nosed newspaper world was as a junior reporter in Dumfriesshire. Duties included interviewing farmers about the prize-winning heifers to reporting on family tragedies. She persuaded her editor to let her launch an entertainment column which meant meeting the odd celebrity – or just the downright odd. From there, she moved to the loftier rank of senior reporter back in her home patch. Slightly more money, fewer farm animals but a higher crime rate. As Taggart would say: 'There's been a murrrrder!'
After a stint in London on a video magazine – yes, she is that old – Audrey moved to Singapore with her fiancé. She tried valiantly to embrace the stinking heat, humidity and lack of jobs, although she did work briefly on a magazine which was banned by the government for 'artistic' use of naked men's bottoms.
Next on her adventures was a land Down Under where her main focus was raising Cost Centre One (aka firstborn) and coming to terms with the imminent arrival of Number Two. Still, she loved the Aussie way of life – BBQs, beaches and bring your own booze to restaurants – so it came as a blow when OH announced a move back to the UK. Not a job between use, the climate a possible deal breaker and an Exorcist-style vomiting infant on the flight home didn't bode well …
Always a survivor, Audrey sought out similar-minded friends (i.e. slightly bonkers), got the children into a good school and thought about taking up writing again. Sadly, thinking about it was as far as she got, unless you count shopping lists. Then, hubby drops another bombshell. Switzerland. As in – it's packing time again. Off to the land of cheese, chocolate, scarily efficient trains and a couple of teeny, tiny issues. Like driving on the 'wrong' side of the road and speaking a foreign language (French). The former was conquered fairly quickly (we'll skip over the wall demolition in week two), the latter remains an ongoing battle of the hopeful against the hopeless. At least she provides amusement for the local workforce.
It wasn't until 2016 that Audrey rediscovered her writing mojo with an on line Writing Fiction course. From there, her first novel – A Clean Sweep – was born, although it took a bit longer than nine months from conception. A short, darker prequel – A Clean Break – followed, and in November 2017 she published the first in a novella trilogy, The Haunting of Hattie Hastings Part One. Parts Two and Three followed, and were combined into a standalone novel in November 2018. Her third romantic comedy A Wish For Jinnie will be published in June 2020.
Her first foray into the hard-nosed newspaper world was as a junior reporter in Dumfriesshire. Duties included interviewing farmers about the prize-winning heifers to reporting on family tragedies. She persuaded her editor to let her launch an entertainment column which meant meeting the odd celebrity – or just the downright odd. From there, she moved to the loftier rank of senior reporter back in her home patch. Slightly more money, fewer farm animals but a higher crime rate. As Taggart would say: 'There's been a murrrrder!'
After a stint in London on a video magazine – yes, she is that old – Audrey moved to Singapore with her fiancé. She tried valiantly to embrace the stinking heat, humidity and lack of jobs, although she did work briefly on a magazine which was banned by the government for 'artistic' use of naked men's bottoms.
Next on her adventures was a land Down Under where her main focus was raising Cost Centre One (aka firstborn) and coming to terms with the imminent arrival of Number Two. Still, she loved the Aussie way of life – BBQs, beaches and bring your own booze to restaurants – so it came as a blow when OH announced a move back to the UK. Not a job between use, the climate a possible deal breaker and an Exorcist-style vomiting infant on the flight home didn't bode well …
Always a survivor, Audrey sought out similar-minded friends (i.e. slightly bonkers), got the children into a good school and thought about taking up writing again. Sadly, thinking about it was as far as she got, unless you count shopping lists. Then, hubby drops another bombshell. Switzerland. As in – it's packing time again. Off to the land of cheese, chocolate, scarily efficient trains and a couple of teeny, tiny issues. Like driving on the 'wrong' side of the road and speaking a foreign language (French). The former was conquered fairly quickly (we'll skip over the wall demolition in week two), the latter remains an ongoing battle of the hopeful against the hopeless. At least she provides amusement for the local workforce.
It wasn't until 2016 that Audrey rediscovered her writing mojo with an on line Writing Fiction course. From there, her first novel – A Clean Sweep – was born, although it took a bit longer than nine months from conception. A short, darker prequel – A Clean Break – followed, and in November 2017 she published the first in a novella trilogy, The Haunting of Hattie Hastings Part One. Parts Two and Three followed, and were combined into a standalone novel in November 2018. Her third romantic comedy A Wish For Jinnie will be published in June 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
November 24, 2017
5☆ Hauntingly Funny yet Emotional!
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings is Part 1 of a series which I'm very excited about.
Just from part 1, I definitely think this series is one to watch out for!
Hattie had a great life and good friends.
That is until her world comes tumbling down.
Her hubby Gary gets killed by a drunk driver hit and run accident.
Hattie is absolutely devastated!
Gary was the love of her life, father to their son Jonnie. How will Hattie ever be able to cope.
One day when Jonnie is out, Hattie decides to get drunk!
So she rummages through the drinks cupboard!
But then something happens!
She hears a voice....... not just any voice..... but Gary's Voice!
Drunk and upset, Hattie thinks she is hallucinating. Until Gary is holding his favourite whisky!
Things start to get a lil crazy for Hattie as Gary can appear. But no one else can seem to see him!
Is Hattie going mad???
Her friends think she is!!
Or is it grief???
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings is a very funny, eerie, at times emotional read.
The characters are great fun. I loved Rachel (Hattie's Mum) she is sharp, witty, has a few gentleman friends, yet she also has a softer side where she just can't let her guard down!
Then there is Cat Hattie's best friend. She's had bad experiences with relationships and finally things might just be looking up! She is Hattie's rock!
Jonnie, Hattie's Son is annoying. He is a uni drop out to follow his writing dream.
Yet he treats Hattie as his maid! I hope he proves me wrong in the parts to come!
If your looking for a book with a difference then this is one for you!
A Romantic Comedy with a ghostly twist!
You won't want to miss!!
I would like to thank Rachel Random Resources for this fab book in which I voluntarily reviewed.
My Review is also on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/1...
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings is Part 1 of a series which I'm very excited about.
Just from part 1, I definitely think this series is one to watch out for!
Hattie had a great life and good friends.
That is until her world comes tumbling down.
Her hubby Gary gets killed by a drunk driver hit and run accident.
Hattie is absolutely devastated!
Gary was the love of her life, father to their son Jonnie. How will Hattie ever be able to cope.
One day when Jonnie is out, Hattie decides to get drunk!
So she rummages through the drinks cupboard!
But then something happens!
She hears a voice....... not just any voice..... but Gary's Voice!
Drunk and upset, Hattie thinks she is hallucinating. Until Gary is holding his favourite whisky!
Things start to get a lil crazy for Hattie as Gary can appear. But no one else can seem to see him!
Is Hattie going mad???
Her friends think she is!!
Or is it grief???
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings is a very funny, eerie, at times emotional read.
The characters are great fun. I loved Rachel (Hattie's Mum) she is sharp, witty, has a few gentleman friends, yet she also has a softer side where she just can't let her guard down!
Then there is Cat Hattie's best friend. She's had bad experiences with relationships and finally things might just be looking up! She is Hattie's rock!
Jonnie, Hattie's Son is annoying. He is a uni drop out to follow his writing dream.
Yet he treats Hattie as his maid! I hope he proves me wrong in the parts to come!
If your looking for a book with a difference then this is one for you!
A Romantic Comedy with a ghostly twist!
You won't want to miss!!
I would like to thank Rachel Random Resources for this fab book in which I voluntarily reviewed.
My Review is also on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/1...
March 24, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
Hattie kept one eye firmly closed, and squinted through the other. Why she thought this would change anything she had no idea, but she wasn’t ready for the reality of full-on vision.
A few days after the funeral, they’d returned in a taxi, his mum insisting on carrying his urn in her capacious handbag. Unfortunately, the driver took a speed bump a little too fast and the contents of the urn upturned and mixed with the contents of the aforementioned bag. Thus, Gary’s remains were scooped back into the receptacle along with ancient biscuit crumbs, loose change and a couple of mangled Werther’s Originals.
You just farted! Silent but deadly. Christ, Hats, I might be on the other side but that could fell North Korea. Or serve as their nuclear deterrent.
Jeez, bro. You took your time getting that off your chest! I had you down as a bottom bandit for – ooh! – at least three years.
The last she’d heard – they hadn’t seen each other for more than five years – he’d moved to Switzerland where he was something big in private banking… Cat allowed herself a small grin as she recalled Hattie insisting that a ‘w’ was more appropriate than a ‘b’.
My Review:
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings was a delightful and witty treat. Part 1 was a quick and fun read that has me primed and eager for the rest of the series. I enjoyed the unique storyline, endearing and quirky characters, and Ms. Davis’s amusing and clever humor. I started this series knowing it was a serial of three parts, so I was prepared and braced for the cliffhanger endings. I was warned to ward off a possible… okay, probable tantrum. And, score! I have a new addition to my Brit vocabulary list with doolally, which means Mr. Google told me was “temporarily deranged or feebleminded.” Which is how cliffhangers generally make me feel ;)
Hattie kept one eye firmly closed, and squinted through the other. Why she thought this would change anything she had no idea, but she wasn’t ready for the reality of full-on vision.
A few days after the funeral, they’d returned in a taxi, his mum insisting on carrying his urn in her capacious handbag. Unfortunately, the driver took a speed bump a little too fast and the contents of the urn upturned and mixed with the contents of the aforementioned bag. Thus, Gary’s remains were scooped back into the receptacle along with ancient biscuit crumbs, loose change and a couple of mangled Werther’s Originals.
You just farted! Silent but deadly. Christ, Hats, I might be on the other side but that could fell North Korea. Or serve as their nuclear deterrent.
Jeez, bro. You took your time getting that off your chest! I had you down as a bottom bandit for – ooh! – at least three years.
The last she’d heard – they hadn’t seen each other for more than five years – he’d moved to Switzerland where he was something big in private banking… Cat allowed herself a small grin as she recalled Hattie insisting that a ‘w’ was more appropriate than a ‘b’.
My Review:
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings was a delightful and witty treat. Part 1 was a quick and fun read that has me primed and eager for the rest of the series. I enjoyed the unique storyline, endearing and quirky characters, and Ms. Davis’s amusing and clever humor. I started this series knowing it was a serial of three parts, so I was prepared and braced for the cliffhanger endings. I was warned to ward off a possible… okay, probable tantrum. And, score! I have a new addition to my Brit vocabulary list with doolally, which means Mr. Google told me was “temporarily deranged or feebleminded.” Which is how cliffhangers generally make me feel ;)
November 24, 2017
All my reviews can be found at http://jessicasreadingroom.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hattie’s husband Gary tragically dies. Hattie doesn’t really know what to do next then Gary reappears as a ghost…. Without warning…. And he keeps reappearing… He can’t control this…He has interesting timing in his appearances….
This is the part one in a trilogy of novellas. After finishing this first part I am looking forward to reading part two. I want to see where this story goes next. You can’t help but like these characters. This is a comedy that is filled with great one liners. I won’t say what he said but Gary mentions the first thing he noticed about Hattie since his death and well…. Just read this!
The only ‘negative’ I can say is that just when The Haunting of Hattie Hastings really gets going you have that cliff hanger. I NEED the second part now! If you download this, be prepared! You’ll want the second and I’m guessing the third parts to read all at once.
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings is recommended
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hattie’s husband Gary tragically dies. Hattie doesn’t really know what to do next then Gary reappears as a ghost…. Without warning…. And he keeps reappearing… He can’t control this…He has interesting timing in his appearances….
This is the part one in a trilogy of novellas. After finishing this first part I am looking forward to reading part two. I want to see where this story goes next. You can’t help but like these characters. This is a comedy that is filled with great one liners. I won’t say what he said but Gary mentions the first thing he noticed about Hattie since his death and well…. Just read this!
The only ‘negative’ I can say is that just when The Haunting of Hattie Hastings really gets going you have that cliff hanger. I NEED the second part now! If you download this, be prepared! You’ll want the second and I’m guessing the third parts to read all at once.
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings is recommended
November 24, 2017
What a lovely little read this was. At only 90 pages it was a quick read that flew past in no time at all.
You know the saying, good things come in small packages, well this is the case with this book. I did slightly worry it would be a bit of an emotional read with the main character losing her husband but it turned out to be a delightful and fun filled read.
Hattie is a wonderful character as is her other half, Gary. They really make this book. It was kind of bitter sweet Hattie losing her husband and him returning as some sort of ghost. It was sad and funny at the same time, I actually felt a bit bad for smiling whilst reading it as I could easily visualise what was in front of me in my head and in away it was like watching one of those funny sitcoms.
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings is a read that will put a smile on your face and a spark in your eyes. Great start to a story and I can’t wait to see what life has in store for the characters in the next book.
My thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
You know the saying, good things come in small packages, well this is the case with this book. I did slightly worry it would be a bit of an emotional read with the main character losing her husband but it turned out to be a delightful and fun filled read.
Hattie is a wonderful character as is her other half, Gary. They really make this book. It was kind of bitter sweet Hattie losing her husband and him returning as some sort of ghost. It was sad and funny at the same time, I actually felt a bit bad for smiling whilst reading it as I could easily visualise what was in front of me in my head and in away it was like watching one of those funny sitcoms.
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings is a read that will put a smile on your face and a spark in your eyes. Great start to a story and I can’t wait to see what life has in store for the characters in the next book.
My thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
December 13, 2017
This was a fun, light read and an enjoyable one.
Hattie is living a life like many women of her age: she has a husband whom she adores but who drives her crazy, a son who is hard to motivate and also drives her crazy in a different way and a job that is ok but isn't quite what she thought she would be doing when she was younger and dreaming of a career. She has good friends and a supportive brother, which is just as well because she loses her husband Gary to an accident and she really needs them. She needs them even more when Gary makes a return visit, from beyond the grave, and no-one believes her!
I wasn't sure how this story was going to unfold but the author does a good job with the storyline. I only wish this story wasn't in parts (how many parts: two, three?) because now I have to wait months to find out what happens next. I genuinely find this annoying as by the time the next part comes out, you have lost momentum and will probably have to re-read the first/last part to refresh your memory.
Anyway, a well-deserved 4 stars from me, please don't make me wait too long for the next part? Thanking you in advance :)
Hattie is living a life like many women of her age: she has a husband whom she adores but who drives her crazy, a son who is hard to motivate and also drives her crazy in a different way and a job that is ok but isn't quite what she thought she would be doing when she was younger and dreaming of a career. She has good friends and a supportive brother, which is just as well because she loses her husband Gary to an accident and she really needs them. She needs them even more when Gary makes a return visit, from beyond the grave, and no-one believes her!
I wasn't sure how this story was going to unfold but the author does a good job with the storyline. I only wish this story wasn't in parts (how many parts: two, three?) because now I have to wait months to find out what happens next. I genuinely find this annoying as by the time the next part comes out, you have lost momentum and will probably have to re-read the first/last part to refresh your memory.
Anyway, a well-deserved 4 stars from me, please don't make me wait too long for the next part? Thanking you in advance :)
March 27, 2018
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings
I hope I can express to you just how much I loved this book. At 90 pages this novella is a quick read but it packs a punch and wow does it leave you wanting more! What an ending!!!
Hattie is just your average woman of a certain age, with a husband and grown up son who drive her mad. She could be you or me, except for one thing...her husband is unexpectedly killed in an accident but he’s not ready to go and so decides to haunt Hattie!!!
Davis does such a beautiful job with this story in such a short space of time. We witness fun and frolics, love and laughter and tears and sadness all within a novella. You can’t get away from the fact the ending leaves us on a massive cliffhanger...you’ll definitely be hanging on by your fingernails waiting for instalment number two!! Five shiny stars from purplebookstand, highly recommended!
I hope I can express to you just how much I loved this book. At 90 pages this novella is a quick read but it packs a punch and wow does it leave you wanting more! What an ending!!!
Hattie is just your average woman of a certain age, with a husband and grown up son who drive her mad. She could be you or me, except for one thing...her husband is unexpectedly killed in an accident but he’s not ready to go and so decides to haunt Hattie!!!
Davis does such a beautiful job with this story in such a short space of time. We witness fun and frolics, love and laughter and tears and sadness all within a novella. You can’t get away from the fact the ending leaves us on a massive cliffhanger...you’ll definitely be hanging on by your fingernails waiting for instalment number two!! Five shiny stars from purplebookstand, highly recommended!
February 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. A fun, intriguing story. I loved the ghosts/spirits and in the afterlife. It was a slightly different type of afterlife than typically portrayed or imagined . A fun read and one that sparked my imagination in positive ways.
April 5, 2018
review to follow
December 23, 2017
Absolutely loved this! I loved Audrey’s first book & this was equally as good. I can’t wait to read the next parts.
December 28, 2017
Short and sweet but hilarious too! Can't wait to see what happens next!
December 23, 2017
Hattie Hastings husband dies in a tragic accident and leaves her alone with her son, only he hasn't quite gone. He keeps appearing at random times and sometimes awkward moments.
A short-read and the first part of a trilogy, with plenty of funny moments in it. I did feel it stopped abruptly which was a shame, but I am looking forward to reading the next one.
4 stars from me for this one.
A short-read and the first part of a trilogy, with plenty of funny moments in it. I did feel it stopped abruptly which was a shame, but I am looking forward to reading the next one.
4 stars from me for this one.
November 13, 2017
Hattie’s husband is tragically killed by a drunk driver one night as he is putting the bins out. She is flabbergasted when a few days later he materialises as a type of ghost and can speak to her. He can vanish as dramatically as he can reappear- but something for now that is out of his control. This leaves Hattie in a state of disbelief wondering how she can tell someone so that she will know that she is not going mad. Very well written this is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Hattie is a larger than life character as are many of those around her. This is part one of three, my only disappointment is that is short and I wanted the two other parts to be able to continue the story. I look forward to the next instalments.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
November 4, 2017
I fell in love with Audrey's sense of humour when I read her first novel 'A Clean Sweep' a few months ago. I was therefore thrilled to be lucky enough to receive an arc of her latest book, The Haunting of Hattie Hastings. It's the first part in a trilogy that tells the tale of Hattie, who is haunted by the ghost of her late husband. I don't want to give anything away but if you're a fan of light-hearted, heartwarming comedy, then definitely download a copy - I was laughing from page one!
July 15, 2018
“The Haunting of Hattie Hastings,” is an absolutely fun read. This is part one of a trilogy.
You will laugh and cry with this hauntingly addictive read.
Be sure to add this to your TBR list.
Thank you to the author for an awesome read and to TBC Reviewers Request Group.
On to book two...
You will laugh and cry with this hauntingly addictive read.
Be sure to add this to your TBR list.
Thank you to the author for an awesome read and to TBC Reviewers Request Group.
On to book two...
November 24, 2017
With thanks to the author for the copy received.
I didn’t really know what to expect from this book, It is part one of a trilogy that will be published fully over the next few months. I can say that I loved everything about it.
Hattie had a great marriage with Gary and was devastated after his sudden death. He wasn’t turned into a saint by his death. Everybody he knew loved him and there was nothing to suggest that he wasn’t a lovely person to know. But unlike everybody else Hattie can still see Gary. He doesn’t feel like he used to but apart from that he is no different. He visits her often, unfortunately never when anybody else is there.
I found this great fun, not fall over laughing, but it was so good to read about a couple who adored each other but were no longer able to be together in the normal way. There were various narrators, Hattie, her best friend Cat, and various members of her family. None of them knew what to say or think about Gary’s visits.
There were also storylines concerning other characters, Cat’s ex has made an unwelcome reappearance just as she has managed to turn her life around, and all of Hattie’s family had their own story to tell.
I have read a few books lately that are serialised but this is one of my favourites. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I didn’t really know what to expect from this book, It is part one of a trilogy that will be published fully over the next few months. I can say that I loved everything about it.
Hattie had a great marriage with Gary and was devastated after his sudden death. He wasn’t turned into a saint by his death. Everybody he knew loved him and there was nothing to suggest that he wasn’t a lovely person to know. But unlike everybody else Hattie can still see Gary. He doesn’t feel like he used to but apart from that he is no different. He visits her often, unfortunately never when anybody else is there.
I found this great fun, not fall over laughing, but it was so good to read about a couple who adored each other but were no longer able to be together in the normal way. There were various narrators, Hattie, her best friend Cat, and various members of her family. None of them knew what to say or think about Gary’s visits.
There were also storylines concerning other characters, Cat’s ex has made an unwelcome reappearance just as she has managed to turn her life around, and all of Hattie’s family had their own story to tell.
I have read a few books lately that are serialised but this is one of my favourites. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
August 6, 2018
Okay, so I didn't notice this was Part One of Three when I downloaded it. I actually didn't notice until midway through it, but it was intriguing enough that I forged ahead, hoping it was a complete book in itself but maybe one part of a larger story arc. Nope. It just stops. On a cliffhanger, of course, which is kind of dirty pool, if you ask me. However, having said all that, I really did enjoy reading this part. And when my book budget allows, I might go in search of parts 2 & 3. I guess what I'm saying is it's worth reading, but make sure you download all three parts so you can read them straight through. Otherwise, it's a bit of a bummer when it stops.
December 23, 2017
I enjoyed reading this story. I was a little disappointed that it ended so abruptly, even though I knew it would have a cliffhanger ending. It just felt unfinished. Up until then, I did enjoy it.
December 22, 2017
I have only two words to say Absolutely Brilliant. I cannot wait for the next episode.
December 13, 2017
Really enjoyed reading this book, very nicely written and full of humour. The basic story is that Hattie’s husband Gary is unexpectedly killed but days later returns as a ghost. Although I first thought this was a little far fetched I really enjoyed how it happened and that it feels like quite a normal thing to do! I will look forward to reading further parts of this and finding out the continuing stories of not only Hattie and Gary but also Cat and Johnny!!
December 29, 2017
I found this book a funny and engaging read. My heart went out Hattie and her dearly (not so) departed Gary...his struggle to make sense of death was both funny and poignant. The author captured well each characters quirks and foibles, although I was left feeling a bit puzzled by Gary’s character: Alive, he seemed a bit of a tosser, but Hattie’s memory of him was possibly kinder than reality.
I also enjoyed reading about Cat, Jack, and all the minor characters, but wish Davis had spent some time tying lose ends of plots a little more carefully than she has done. I also felt that that the written attempts at humour were beautifully done at some parts but slightly overdone in others...a little more subtlety would have been refreshing. Overall, an engaging read. I’ll defnitely look out for part two!
I also enjoyed reading about Cat, Jack, and all the minor characters, but wish Davis had spent some time tying lose ends of plots a little more carefully than she has done. I also felt that that the written attempts at humour were beautifully done at some parts but slightly overdone in others...a little more subtlety would have been refreshing. Overall, an engaging read. I’ll defnitely look out for part two!
July 10, 2018
Just read all 3 in 2 days. Loved them, they made me laugh out loud, cry, clap. Hattie's husband dies unexpectedly, but he does not want to go and he keeps appearing to her. His aim in the after life is to make sure that all the people he cares for are happy. Once I started reading these books, even though they are completely different from anything I have read before, I could not stop. If you want a good happy, sad easy read this is for you. A full 5 star.
December 8, 2017
Whilst I have really enjoyed reading this book, it’s more like reading half a book which just stops in the middle. Usually with a 2 or3 part story each part stops at an appropriate place - this seems to just stop in the middle. That notwithstanding I really enjoyed the part I have read. It has a great premise, if not totally original, and it is written in a really funny and witty way. Looking forward to reading part 2.
December 19, 2017
The haunting of hattie Hastings by Audrey Davis.
Hattie's husband Gary has died from a hit and run. But he has come back to hattie and is haunting her.
A fantastic read.
A lovely light humour read. Loved the characters and the story. Can't wait for next one. 5*.
Hattie's husband Gary has died from a hit and run. But he has come back to hattie and is haunting her.
A fantastic read.
A lovely light humour read. Loved the characters and the story. Can't wait for next one. 5*.
March 28, 2018
Make no mistake, Harriet ‘Hattie’ Hastings adores her husband, Gary and their son, Johnny. But the too-long-unemployed spouse and recent uni-dropout offspring are not making life easy for the hard-working barista who searches in vain for her silver lining.
Fate intervenes with a dark hand leaving Hattie a grieving widow. Before she’s had time to mourn and adjust to Gary’s demise… he’s back!
Of course, Hattie believes her mind’s gone around the bend, but she does come to accept the fact Gary is back in all his ethereal glory, and he’s just as confused about it as she is.
Hattie struggles with how to share the news with Johnny, and with the three people closest to her, brother Jack, mom Rachel, and bestie Cat, without getting locked away in a padded room.
The theme of loss runs through The Haunting of Hattie Hastings and touches all the characters, but it is the way they deal with the loss, separately and together, which make this such a lively, winning read. Along with Hattie losing Gary, Rachel lost Hattie and Jack’s dad when they were so young, they don’t remember him. Cat’s marriage failed, but after details come to light, I’m thinking it was a good thing as in ‘less is more!” HA!
The story is told from multiple points of view in such a fluid, non-confusing way, I found myself looking forward to each chapter, anxious to find out how each character progressed past their situations.
But, this is Hattie’s story and she is so well-written! Hattie doesn’t have superpowers, wealth or vast material possessions, stunning beauty, or a yearning to visit another planet. She’s every-woman, rolling with the punches of life, trying to figure it all out—like why her dead husband is haunting her. Hattie is arguably one of the most normal characters I’ve come across. Her humor, wit, and sarcasm are all on point! She’s suffered a heartbreaking loss and it hurts. But, she is not so consumed in self-pity she ignores those she loves. She hopes her son finds direction in life. She wants to know what her mother is keeping from her. Hattie hopes to always be close with her brother, and of course, she prays Cat finds a man worthy of her who will love and cherish her, not rip away her dignity and self-esteem.
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings is a very British read. There’s enough tea served to fill Boston Harbor. But mentions of scones, Downton Abbey, and the Queen are mixed right in with mentions of the Ghostbusters and Homer Simpson and pop culture favorites, The Lord of the Rings, It’s a Wonderful Life, and the Cat in the Hat!
This short-read moves at a steady pace, covering a lot of (emotional) ground and ends at a great point in the story. Some may call it a cliffhanger. I disagree… because I hate those, but if you’re wise—like me—you’ll have book 2 cued up and continue right on with this fun read…also, like me!
Enjoy!
Fate intervenes with a dark hand leaving Hattie a grieving widow. Before she’s had time to mourn and adjust to Gary’s demise… he’s back!
Of course, Hattie believes her mind’s gone around the bend, but she does come to accept the fact Gary is back in all his ethereal glory, and he’s just as confused about it as she is.
Hattie struggles with how to share the news with Johnny, and with the three people closest to her, brother Jack, mom Rachel, and bestie Cat, without getting locked away in a padded room.
The theme of loss runs through The Haunting of Hattie Hastings and touches all the characters, but it is the way they deal with the loss, separately and together, which make this such a lively, winning read. Along with Hattie losing Gary, Rachel lost Hattie and Jack’s dad when they were so young, they don’t remember him. Cat’s marriage failed, but after details come to light, I’m thinking it was a good thing as in ‘less is more!” HA!
The story is told from multiple points of view in such a fluid, non-confusing way, I found myself looking forward to each chapter, anxious to find out how each character progressed past their situations.
But, this is Hattie’s story and she is so well-written! Hattie doesn’t have superpowers, wealth or vast material possessions, stunning beauty, or a yearning to visit another planet. She’s every-woman, rolling with the punches of life, trying to figure it all out—like why her dead husband is haunting her. Hattie is arguably one of the most normal characters I’ve come across. Her humor, wit, and sarcasm are all on point! She’s suffered a heartbreaking loss and it hurts. But, she is not so consumed in self-pity she ignores those she loves. She hopes her son finds direction in life. She wants to know what her mother is keeping from her. Hattie hopes to always be close with her brother, and of course, she prays Cat finds a man worthy of her who will love and cherish her, not rip away her dignity and self-esteem.
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings is a very British read. There’s enough tea served to fill Boston Harbor. But mentions of scones, Downton Abbey, and the Queen are mixed right in with mentions of the Ghostbusters and Homer Simpson and pop culture favorites, The Lord of the Rings, It’s a Wonderful Life, and the Cat in the Hat!
This short-read moves at a steady pace, covering a lot of (emotional) ground and ends at a great point in the story. Some may call it a cliffhanger. I disagree… because I hate those, but if you’re wise—like me—you’ll have book 2 cued up and continue right on with this fun read…also, like me!
Enjoy!
August 27, 2018
This is the story of Hattie Hasting, who is living in a not always perfect but always full of love marriage with the larger than life character of husband Gary until “Almost twenty-one-years of marriage destroyed by a lunatic driver who’d mounted the pavement, smashed into Gary as he positioned the bin just outside their gate, then disappeared into the night. His injuries were so severe, he never regained consciousness.”
When Gary begins to appear to Hattie, slightly translucent but still the same Gary, you see that this is not your average ghost story. For one thing ghosts can’t usually drink whiskey! This book is full of comedy (there’s amazing one-liners that are credited to a comedian at the end that I have to go look up!) but it’s interspersed nicely with the other worldly as we hear Gary try to make sense of death with Hattie. The romance with the two of them, in all their normality, was spellbinding, and it made it all the more heartbreaking that they couldn’t return to it. In fact it is the everydayness of this that blows your mind-the continuing on from day to day even though Hattie’s soul mate isn’t there and wondering when he is, well, what happens next? How can this work?
The characters were excellent. I loved Cat, Hattie’s best friend, too and was thrilled with the cliffhanger, it was absolute perfection! All in all a romantic, heartbreaking, gorgeous, hilarious (HILARIOUS) book that would remind me of something like Robert Brenda’s Coco series, fun and funny and a little over the top but not crossing lines into crass or something you’d cringe at. A series I will rate and adore for a long long time to come. Thanks so much to Rachel’s Random Resources for the book in return for an honest review.
Rating: 5/5
When Gary begins to appear to Hattie, slightly translucent but still the same Gary, you see that this is not your average ghost story. For one thing ghosts can’t usually drink whiskey! This book is full of comedy (there’s amazing one-liners that are credited to a comedian at the end that I have to go look up!) but it’s interspersed nicely with the other worldly as we hear Gary try to make sense of death with Hattie. The romance with the two of them, in all their normality, was spellbinding, and it made it all the more heartbreaking that they couldn’t return to it. In fact it is the everydayness of this that blows your mind-the continuing on from day to day even though Hattie’s soul mate isn’t there and wondering when he is, well, what happens next? How can this work?
The characters were excellent. I loved Cat, Hattie’s best friend, too and was thrilled with the cliffhanger, it was absolute perfection! All in all a romantic, heartbreaking, gorgeous, hilarious (HILARIOUS) book that would remind me of something like Robert Brenda’s Coco series, fun and funny and a little over the top but not crossing lines into crass or something you’d cringe at. A series I will rate and adore for a long long time to come. Thanks so much to Rachel’s Random Resources for the book in return for an honest review.
Rating: 5/5
July 12, 2018
Gary Hastings is, in a small way, demonstrating what a sweet guy he is, and why after more than twenty years Hattie still loves him, when he's hit by a car and killed.
It's a devastating loss emotionally, and there are endless practical details to be dealt with too, and on top of that, their son, Johnny, is still not getting his act together and getting a job after dropping out of university.
It's all right on the edge of being too much to handle.
Then, one evening, Gary pops back in.
He's not quite corporeal, but he can still enjoy his favorite whisky. And he is, after the initial shock, a pleasure and a comfort for Hattie to see and talk to again. Unfortunately, Gary can't control his comings and goings.
This is part one of three parts, and be warned that it's a cliffhanger. (Part two is already available, and part three, the conclusion, will be published at the end of July 2018. In this first part, we get to know Hattie, Gary, their friends and family. This includes Hattie's oldest and closest friend, Cat, and her new boyfriend, along with Hattie's brother and mother. These are all likable people, and if Hattie's efforts to get their help in understanding what's happening with Gary don't always go well, it's not because they don't care or aren't trying to do what's best for her. It's just that, so far at least, no one can see Gary except Hattie.
It's a fun, engaging introduction.
Let me repeat that this is a cliffhanger. Part two is available; the conclusion will be available later this month.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the author, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
It's a devastating loss emotionally, and there are endless practical details to be dealt with too, and on top of that, their son, Johnny, is still not getting his act together and getting a job after dropping out of university.
It's all right on the edge of being too much to handle.
Then, one evening, Gary pops back in.
He's not quite corporeal, but he can still enjoy his favorite whisky. And he is, after the initial shock, a pleasure and a comfort for Hattie to see and talk to again. Unfortunately, Gary can't control his comings and goings.
This is part one of three parts, and be warned that it's a cliffhanger. (Part two is already available, and part three, the conclusion, will be published at the end of July 2018. In this first part, we get to know Hattie, Gary, their friends and family. This includes Hattie's oldest and closest friend, Cat, and her new boyfriend, along with Hattie's brother and mother. These are all likable people, and if Hattie's efforts to get their help in understanding what's happening with Gary don't always go well, it's not because they don't care or aren't trying to do what's best for her. It's just that, so far at least, no one can see Gary except Hattie.
It's a fun, engaging introduction.
Let me repeat that this is a cliffhanger. Part two is available; the conclusion will be available later this month.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the author, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
March 29, 2020
Yesterday I received an ARC edition of this book after requesting it. To be honest, I wasn't hyped in reading it because it isn't the usual genre I am going for while picking a book. Not going to lie, after reading the first few pages, my opinion changed miraculously.
In the first chapter, a tragedy occurs (Gary's death) and in the second one, the main character, Hattie, goes insane. At first, I didn't know what to think of it, until I read more and the whole action started to grow on me. To be honest, a part of me kept reading only to see if Hattie is actually insane. It is a romantic comedy, not a horror book. It focuses more on the fortunate and unexpected return of Gary than on the horror side of it. Throughout the book, Hattie tries to tell people she can see her deceased husband, without sounding like a crazy widow.
The other side of me kept reading because of the way the book is written, the style to be more precise. It can be seen from afar that the novel is written by a British author. It contains some of the slangs of British English which I really enjoyed. I always liked British English more than American English, and this book has been just a delightful read. The chapters are just the right length (an average of 4 pages), and I didn't get bored while reading. I laughed a few times (maybe more than a few) which is understandable, giving it is a comedy book.
Overall, I really enjoyed it, and I am looking forward to reading the second part. I recommend it if looking for a light reading or if in need of a refreshing read.
I received this book as an ARC edition, and I reviewed it voluntarily.
In the first chapter, a tragedy occurs (Gary's death) and in the second one, the main character, Hattie, goes insane. At first, I didn't know what to think of it, until I read more and the whole action started to grow on me. To be honest, a part of me kept reading only to see if Hattie is actually insane. It is a romantic comedy, not a horror book. It focuses more on the fortunate and unexpected return of Gary than on the horror side of it. Throughout the book, Hattie tries to tell people she can see her deceased husband, without sounding like a crazy widow.
The other side of me kept reading because of the way the book is written, the style to be more precise. It can be seen from afar that the novel is written by a British author. It contains some of the slangs of British English which I really enjoyed. I always liked British English more than American English, and this book has been just a delightful read. The chapters are just the right length (an average of 4 pages), and I didn't get bored while reading. I laughed a few times (maybe more than a few) which is understandable, giving it is a comedy book.
Overall, I really enjoyed it, and I am looking forward to reading the second part. I recommend it if looking for a light reading or if in need of a refreshing read.
I received this book as an ARC edition, and I reviewed it voluntarily.
November 4, 2017
“Being dead wasn’t a bundle of laughs…” for Gary…This hilarious little book was just the tonic I needed after horrid surgery. My only worry was that the funny comments that made me giggle would split my stitches.
Gary comes back as an apparition to his wreck of a distraught, grieving wife, Hattie. His first observation as he hovers over her is that her “roots need doing”. And so the one-liners continue to sprinkle themselves across the page. (The author would make a fine stand-up comic.) There is a storyline apart from the gags, though, and some satisfying sub-plots and other amusing personalities. Johnny, the couple’s son is a very recognisable adolescent. “Any plans for the day?” [ asks his Mum] –“ apart from making tortoises look energetic, she thought to herself.” About three quarters of the way through, the gags settle down and we have a relatively serious interlude (no spoilers) and then ….. and this is my only gripe… the story ends suddenly – like the end of a soap episode – “to be continued”. That was cruel – like visitors who eat grapes they bring into hospital…
I loved Cat and her best friend, Hat, who were at school together and who had “snorted their way through maths classes, trigonometry and algebra as appealing as genital warts.” I can identify with that.
A very funny tale and, when I get over my annoyance at being teased to an almost-climax – I might look out for the sequel. Audrey Davis is a caution.
Gary comes back as an apparition to his wreck of a distraught, grieving wife, Hattie. His first observation as he hovers over her is that her “roots need doing”. And so the one-liners continue to sprinkle themselves across the page. (The author would make a fine stand-up comic.) There is a storyline apart from the gags, though, and some satisfying sub-plots and other amusing personalities. Johnny, the couple’s son is a very recognisable adolescent. “Any plans for the day?” [ asks his Mum] –“ apart from making tortoises look energetic, she thought to herself.” About three quarters of the way through, the gags settle down and we have a relatively serious interlude (no spoilers) and then ….. and this is my only gripe… the story ends suddenly – like the end of a soap episode – “to be continued”. That was cruel – like visitors who eat grapes they bring into hospital…
I loved Cat and her best friend, Hat, who were at school together and who had “snorted their way through maths classes, trigonometry and algebra as appealing as genital warts.” I can identify with that.
A very funny tale and, when I get over my annoyance at being teased to an almost-climax – I might look out for the sequel. Audrey Davis is a caution.
November 24, 2017
The Haunting of Hattie Hastings part one is part of a three part novella written by Audrey Davis. Hattie has recently lost husband Gary after a car accidentally ran into him while he was taking out the dustbin. Just as Hattie is beginning to come to terms with Gary’s passing she begins to notice half-drunk glasses of whisky all-round the house, the drink Gary loved every night. Assuming its son Johnny Hattie thinks nothing of it until Gary appears to her and begins talking. Hattie’s totally thrown, especially as he disappears just as quickly and nobody else seems to believe her.
There’s no doubting this is a funny read, Audrey Davis has excellent comedy timing which translates in to some great scenes. Gary is quite uncouth and doesn’t mince his words but I felt like he was a loveable rouge who just adored Hattie and for that reason I found myself warming to him. I felt we didn’t really get to know Hattie very much but I’m sure that will come in later parts.
I did feel there was a lot to take in such a short read with viewpoints from Hattie, Johnny, her best friend Cat, her mother Rachel and brother Jack and of course Gary. Some interesting plotlines have been laid down so I’m interested to see where this story goes with its next instalment, which I hope is on the way soon.
Thank you to the publishers and Rachel Gilby for inviting me to be part of the blog tour and for sending me a copy to review.
There’s no doubting this is a funny read, Audrey Davis has excellent comedy timing which translates in to some great scenes. Gary is quite uncouth and doesn’t mince his words but I felt like he was a loveable rouge who just adored Hattie and for that reason I found myself warming to him. I felt we didn’t really get to know Hattie very much but I’m sure that will come in later parts.
I did feel there was a lot to take in such a short read with viewpoints from Hattie, Johnny, her best friend Cat, her mother Rachel and brother Jack and of course Gary. Some interesting plotlines have been laid down so I’m interested to see where this story goes with its next instalment, which I hope is on the way soon.
Thank you to the publishers and Rachel Gilby for inviting me to be part of the blog tour and for sending me a copy to review.
March 9, 2018
My review will cover both books one and two as I have read them together. Both books are quite short, quick and easy reads and storyline well thought out. The author has good sense of humour, which shows throughout both books and makes the story current and relatable.
In part one, we are introduced to Hattie and Gary, a married couple trotting along quite nicely in life. Until an awful accident in which Gary dies. However, it turns out that for Gary, death is not the end and much to Hattie’s shock, he comes back, sometimes in the most inappropriate of times. Hattie does not really struggle believing her own eyes, what proves more difficult is to make other people believe that her husband’s ghost is basically haunting her.
Book two delves deeper into the main character’s lives. We get to know Hattie’s best friend Cat a little bit more, especially since Garry makes an appearance to her. We also meet Hattie’s brother Jack and find out more about her mother Rachel and son Johnny. And just as Hattie thinks she could not get more surprises in her life, Garry asks her to do something for another person who recently passed away.
These are laid back, funny books that will put a smile on your face after a long day at work.
Thank you very much to the author and TBConFB for access to this book in return for this honest review.
In part one, we are introduced to Hattie and Gary, a married couple trotting along quite nicely in life. Until an awful accident in which Gary dies. However, it turns out that for Gary, death is not the end and much to Hattie’s shock, he comes back, sometimes in the most inappropriate of times. Hattie does not really struggle believing her own eyes, what proves more difficult is to make other people believe that her husband’s ghost is basically haunting her.
Book two delves deeper into the main character’s lives. We get to know Hattie’s best friend Cat a little bit more, especially since Garry makes an appearance to her. We also meet Hattie’s brother Jack and find out more about her mother Rachel and son Johnny. And just as Hattie thinks she could not get more surprises in her life, Garry asks her to do something for another person who recently passed away.
These are laid back, funny books that will put a smile on your face after a long day at work.
Thank you very much to the author and TBConFB for access to this book in return for this honest review.
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