Review of Hattie Vavaseur

[Riya Sarkar]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Hattie Vavaseur" by M. Rebecca Wildsmith.]

---

4 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Hattie Vavaseur by M. Rebecca Wildsmith is a supernatural historical fiction that centers around Ms. Hattie Vavaseur herself. Hattie is a sophisticated rich woman who seems to suffer from memory loss in her old age. All she remembers is that after attending a funeral (she does not recognize whose funeral, though), she was taken to an old, run-down mansion. She suspects she has promised some friend or relative that she will visit them and has forgotten about it.

Soon after arriving, Hattie meets the master of the mansion and is surprised when she finds out that he has quite a foul temper. She is aghast when she is taken to visit a clairvoyant, Vamelda, in the nearby market by the mansion's butler, Bertram. As time passes, Hattie strikes a friendship with Vamelda and Bertram and gets involved in a murder mystery as things from her life return to her.

I have a soft spot in my heart for books narrated from a historical standpoint, which automatically made me fall in love with the writing style and narration of the book. The story takes place in the Victorian Era, and the author has done a great job of writing the characters and setting the background scene accordingly. For long-distance communication, the usage of letters and telegrams is shown in the text. The letters and telegrams added to the authenticity of the reading experience from a far-gone period.

Moreover, the plot of the book was very well-developed as well. There were some clever twists and turns to thicken the story, and in general, I liked how all the plot points and characters were brought together through the plot development and formed an excellent picture. The dialogues and narrative were humorous and articulate. The characters were also a pleasure to read about (including the evil ones). Hattie and Vamelda were my favorites. Every interaction with Vamelda always put a smile on my face, no matter how dire the situation was.

The only negative aspect I found about the book was that it was a bit slow-paced. At the same time, the writing was so detailed and painted such an exquisite picture that I felt completely in sync with the setting, characters, and all the emotions the characters were experiencing. It helped me connect with the characters even though there are about a hundred years between us.

I would rate this book 4 out of 4 since my entire reading experience for this book was just outstanding. The book was exceptionally well-edited, as I couldn't find a single error throughout the book. I have absolutely nothing not to like about this book.

I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys historical fiction and stories with paranormal activities. If you are like me, who loves the combination of both, you should most definitely pick it up. However, there are some graphic descriptions of violent scenes, so I recommend that readers steer clear if they feel uncomfortable.

******
Hattie Vavaseur
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes

[Carly Sprout]

This sounds like a book that is written in a style I actually enjoy. Although I'm willing to suspend disbelief when it comes to a well-crafted story, in this case, it doesn't seem necessary due to the various historical details. Sprinkle on a little mystery, and I am sold. Thank you for your honest review.

[Amy Luman]

I can’t imagine how terrifying it would be not to remember about your life. I can understand trying to hide your confusion. I am glad to hear about the editing, as I am considering this novel.

[Riya Sarkar]

This sounds like a book that is written in a style I actually enjoy. Although I'm willing to suspend disbelief when it comes to a well-crafted story, in this case, it doesn't seem necessary due to the various historical details. Sprinkle on a little mystery, and I am sold. Thank you for your honest review.

It is a great book. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

[Riya Sarkar]

I can’t imagine how terrifying it would be not to remember about your life. I can understand trying to hide your confusion. I am glad to hear about the editing, as I am considering this novel.

Yes. Hattie hiding her confusion was consistent with her character as being a proud, victorian woman.