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The Afterlife of Walter Augustus
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
Walter Augustus is dead. After decades stuck in the Interim he is ready to move on and be with his family. But just as the end is tantalisingly close, bad luck and a few rash decisions threaten to see him trapped for all eternity.
Letty is not dead. Letty Ferguson is a middle-aged shoe saleswoman who leads a wholly unextraordinary life; that is until she takes possession of an unassuming poetry anthology and the world takes on a rather more extraordinary dimension.
As Letty and Walter’s worlds become more and more intertwined, how far will Walter go to cut his ties with the living for good?
Walter Augustus is dead. After decades stuck in the Interim he is ready to move on and be with his family. But just as the end is tantalisingly close, bad luck and a few rash decisions threaten to see him trapped for all eternity.
Letty is not dead. Letty Ferguson is a middle-aged shoe saleswoman who leads a wholly unextraordinary life; that is until she takes possession of an unassuming poetry anthology and the world takes on a rather more extraordinary dimension.
As Letty and Walter’s worlds become more and more intertwined, how far will Walter go to cut his ties with the living for good?
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 4, 2018
330 people are currently reading
822 people want to read
About the author
Hannah M. Lynn
44 books985 followersHannah Lynn is a multi award winning novelist. Publishing her first book, Amendments – a dark, dystopian speculative fiction novel, in 2015. Her second book, The Afterlife of Walter Augustus – a contemporary fiction novel with a supernatural twist – went on to win the 2018 Kindle Storyteller Award and the Independent Publishers Gold Medal for Best Adult Ebook.
Born in 1984, Hannah grew up in the Cotswolds, UK. After graduating from university, she spent 15 years as a teacher of physics, first in the UK and then Thailand, Malaysia, Austria and Jordan. It was during this time, inspired by the imaginations of the young people she taught, she began writing short stories for children, and later adult fiction.
With over 30 publications spanning a number of genres and translated into a dozen languages, Hannah has proven herself to be both an accomplished and prolific author.
Now settled back in the UK with her husband, daughter and clowder of cats, she spends her days writing romantic comedies and historical fiction. Her first historical fiction novel, Athena's Child, was also a 2020 Gold Medalist at the Independent Publishers Awards.
Born in 1984, Hannah grew up in the Cotswolds, UK. After graduating from university, she spent 15 years as a teacher of physics, first in the UK and then Thailand, Malaysia, Austria and Jordan. It was during this time, inspired by the imaginations of the young people she taught, she began writing short stories for children, and later adult fiction.
With over 30 publications spanning a number of genres and translated into a dozen languages, Hannah has proven herself to be both an accomplished and prolific author.
Now settled back in the UK with her husband, daughter and clowder of cats, she spends her days writing romantic comedies and historical fiction. Her first historical fiction novel, Athena's Child, was also a 2020 Gold Medalist at the Independent Publishers Awards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
July 16, 2018
Walter I took to straight away in this story. He is a lovely character who I think readers will instantly hit it off with. It seemed unfair that he has to wait until everyone has forgotten him. To be stuck in limbo, I could easily feel his frustrations growing. He is very much a gentle soul of which has the reader routing for him to get to his final resting place.
Letty is another easy to read about character. Finding the book written by Walter, makes Letty more intrigued with finding out more about the person behind it. With Walter obviously not wanting this, what follows is a sweet and light hearted reading experience.
The Afterlife of Walter Augustus is a gentle read that easily charms the reader. It’s an easy and delightful read that will put a smile on your face and brighten up your day. I appreciated the touches of humour through out the story as otherwise I think it may have been quite a sombre read but as it is, it makes for an enjoyable read of which makes me look forward to more by the author.
Letty is another easy to read about character. Finding the book written by Walter, makes Letty more intrigued with finding out more about the person behind it. With Walter obviously not wanting this, what follows is a sweet and light hearted reading experience.
The Afterlife of Walter Augustus is a gentle read that easily charms the reader. It’s an easy and delightful read that will put a smile on your face and brighten up your day. I appreciated the touches of humour through out the story as otherwise I think it may have been quite a sombre read but as it is, it makes for an enjoyable read of which makes me look forward to more by the author.
July 30, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. Walter is such an endearing character. This story is entertaining, touching and humorous.
It made me think of my grandad lots while reading it. He died last year just before turning 92 years old, and was also called Walter. I hope Otley Grandad doesn’t mind being stuck in limbo, as I won’t be forgetting him any time soon. Thinking of my grandad probably made this more of an emotional read for me, but in a good way, as it brought back happy memories spent with my grandad over the years.
This is definitely a book I recommend if you enjoy fun character led stories with quirky and endearing characters.
The Afterlife of Walter Augustus is also available on Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
It made me think of my grandad lots while reading it. He died last year just before turning 92 years old, and was also called Walter. I hope Otley Grandad doesn’t mind being stuck in limbo, as I won’t be forgetting him any time soon. Thinking of my grandad probably made this more of an emotional read for me, but in a good way, as it brought back happy memories spent with my grandad over the years.
This is definitely a book I recommend if you enjoy fun character led stories with quirky and endearing characters.
The Afterlife of Walter Augustus is also available on Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
October 11, 2018
Truly loved this book! Such a unique concept. Walter Augustus for some reason reminded me of Clarence in It's a Wonderful Life. I read this book in two settings, mosts of it in one setting, as it was so hard to put down. Loved Letty. Of course, couldn't stand Victoria. My husband is going to read it now.
unfinished
June 6, 2020I'm sure this isn't a bad read for many but 20% in I'm finished. It's a "hanging around in the afterlife until you are forgotten" book and I have read better. Even during Covid lockdown I have plenty of other books to read that interest me more.
July 12, 2018
Sometimes I think I have the best hobby in the world; when I'm lucky enough to read a book with as much class as this one, I'm sure of it!
Walter Augustus is stuck in the afterlife - in the 'interim'. He hasn't been able to move on to join up with the family he misses so much but has to bide his time until he's called. He has everything he needs but he wants so much more. Letty is very much alive. Childless, both she and her husband have worked hard all their lives and she has suddenly realised that her habit of putting away a few pounds whenever she can afford it has added up to a whopping big bank balance. All she has to do is find the right moment to tell Donald.
Suddenly, due to unforeseen circumstances, the worlds of Walter and Letty collide - not easy when one of them is invisible to the other! I'm not going to spoil any of this awesome novel; such a stupendous and quirky book deserves to be read and not explained. The story lines are skilfully planned and merge into one another seamlessly. The characters are so well-drawn; ordinary and yet astounding at the same time. The writing flows beautifully and makes for compulsive reading. A wholly original creation, this is one the author should be extremely proud of - it is a stunning, extraordinary read full of warmth and humour and just as likely to evoke a tear as a giggle. Without a doubt, worthy of five golden, shiny stars and a hearty recommendation!
My thanks to the author who sent my arc copy with no expectations. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.
Walter Augustus is stuck in the afterlife - in the 'interim'. He hasn't been able to move on to join up with the family he misses so much but has to bide his time until he's called. He has everything he needs but he wants so much more. Letty is very much alive. Childless, both she and her husband have worked hard all their lives and she has suddenly realised that her habit of putting away a few pounds whenever she can afford it has added up to a whopping big bank balance. All she has to do is find the right moment to tell Donald.
Suddenly, due to unforeseen circumstances, the worlds of Walter and Letty collide - not easy when one of them is invisible to the other! I'm not going to spoil any of this awesome novel; such a stupendous and quirky book deserves to be read and not explained. The story lines are skilfully planned and merge into one another seamlessly. The characters are so well-drawn; ordinary and yet astounding at the same time. The writing flows beautifully and makes for compulsive reading. A wholly original creation, this is one the author should be extremely proud of - it is a stunning, extraordinary read full of warmth and humour and just as likely to evoke a tear as a giggle. Without a doubt, worthy of five golden, shiny stars and a hearty recommendation!
My thanks to the author who sent my arc copy with no expectations. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.
June 6, 2018
I absolutely adored this book!! Full of heart and humour; I defy you to read this book without shedding a tear. The world, or more aptly heaven building in this story is exquisite and took my breath away. Gorgeous words and full of captivating characters - you need this book in your (after)life!!
July 20, 2018
UPDATE
The world in the afterlife building was hauntingly stunning, every bit of details in the interim was picturesque and believable. It gave me an all new territory of originality. It showed the how, the what, and the why of all things happening to Walter in the interim. Then Letty’s world in the mortal realm. In a situation where Letty is in, with her sister, husband, and career portrayed in such entanglements that’ll make your heart queezy and long for were capturing.
Its narratives were told in two folds, we have Letty who’s alive and swell in the living world of mortals and Walter who died from way back 18th century stuck in the afterlife. Both points of view were full touches of humor and heartbreaking emotions that’ll make you in it for the ride until the end.
Development of the characters was lovely to witness too. Everyone has different motivations to settle on. It may seem shallow at a glance but every person differs and it means a whole new depth of profound feelings where it came from. As the plot thickens a lot of challenges will come in the way and change one.
Most of what I love is how it ended. There were wise words that you could reflect on afterward, words that you would think of while staring at the ceiling at night. Where the note it ended where just the right formula of contentment and still wanting more.
The Afterlife of Walter Augustus is an enthralling read with a captivating vision (of the afterlife and) of a writing that will reel you into finishing it in one sitting. Certainly recommended for everyone!
The world in the afterlife building was hauntingly stunning, every bit of details in the interim was picturesque and believable. It gave me an all new territory of originality. It showed the how, the what, and the why of all things happening to Walter in the interim. Then Letty’s world in the mortal realm. In a situation where Letty is in, with her sister, husband, and career portrayed in such entanglements that’ll make your heart queezy and long for were capturing.
Its narratives were told in two folds, we have Letty who’s alive and swell in the living world of mortals and Walter who died from way back 18th century stuck in the afterlife. Both points of view were full touches of humor and heartbreaking emotions that’ll make you in it for the ride until the end.
Development of the characters was lovely to witness too. Everyone has different motivations to settle on. It may seem shallow at a glance but every person differs and it means a whole new depth of profound feelings where it came from. As the plot thickens a lot of challenges will come in the way and change one.
Most of what I love is how it ended. There were wise words that you could reflect on afterward, words that you would think of while staring at the ceiling at night. Where the note it ended where just the right formula of contentment and still wanting more.
The Afterlife of Walter Augustus is an enthralling read with a captivating vision (of the afterlife and) of a writing that will reel you into finishing it in one sitting. Certainly recommended for everyone!
March 2, 2019
I was excited to start this story about a spirit who is now in a part of the afterlife called “The Interim" but once I started reading, I was disappointed. The pace dragged, I didn’t really care much about the characters, and it felt like a chore to finish it.
August 7, 2018
I have loved this book :D
review posted on https://myvicesandweaknesses.wordpres...
How would you feel if the only way for you to reach the eternal life or heaven, as some religions call it, is to be forgotten? Exactly, to be erased from every single person’s mind, to be completely and utterly forgotten.
It may sound dramatic but that is exactly what Walter J. Augustus is waiting for for quite a few years now. He simply wants to go to his “final” afterlife and not to live in the interim where he is alone and where he does not feel comfortable. He misses his wife, and his daughters joined her decades ago, he has been following his descendants and soon, everything will finish, will it?
As you may have imagined, no, not yet. Walter has another person who, unexpectedly, has found something related to him, something that will not let him to carry on to his afterlife. Moreover, Walter is joined by his former employer when he was alive, a man of whom Walter is afraid of and who Walter has always found overbearing. Their lives, or afterlives, are linked even if they do not like it and they may need to work together, which is not the most appealing idea for Walter, to find the end. Pemberton was, as I wrote, Walter’s boss and he was a very private man. He was totally bossy and not kind but appearances may not be trustworthy.
Pemberton and Walter are joined by Hector, a well-known person who has been for ages in the interim. Hector takes the lead and has all the ideas to make Letty forget Walter and moreover, destroy the item that keeps Walter and Pemberton in the interim. Letty, the lovely lady that, by a simple coincidence, gets the only object that reminds people of Walter and Pemberton, is ta saleswoman at one of the shops of a famous chain of cheap shoes. She has been working there for a few decades and we could say that her life is quite monotonous and some people may say that it is boring. Although Letty seems a sweet tempered girl, very amiable and you will not want her to be hurt. However, she has a secret, and she does not know how to tell her husband about the half-million pounds she has in her bank accounts. Although, her husband also has a secret. Two secrets that may bring a lot of confusion, mainly “thanks” to the “lovely” Victoria, Letty’s sister. She is just a pain in the neck if you let me write it plainly.
Back to Walter… #walterandletty Their lives are connected (or life and afterlife) and Letty will suffer a lot as spirits can be a bit of a nightmare even if they do not want to be. Walter has been alone in the interim because he chose to isolate himself and, therefore, he is not aware of many things that you can do in the interim as a spirit. He is clung to the past and he lives his afterlife almost the same way, just waiting to leave the interim.
However, Walter needs to learn and fast, with Pemberton and Hector’s help…. Poor Letty! her least concerns will be shoes pairing up together on their own or the smell of pear drops. She will think she is mad, she will resort to the ouija and, let’s say, it does not end up well.
If you have been reading some of my reviews, you know I do not like to give spoilers and this is not an exception but let me give you a few questions to think about:
What if spirits can move objects? What if spirits of our ascendants are there to protect us? What if spirits can invade our subconscious? What if our memories are just stored in boxes? What if love is possible even in the interim and afterlife? What if spirits can make grass stop growing?
review posted on https://myvicesandweaknesses.wordpres...
How would you feel if the only way for you to reach the eternal life or heaven, as some religions call it, is to be forgotten? Exactly, to be erased from every single person’s mind, to be completely and utterly forgotten.
It may sound dramatic but that is exactly what Walter J. Augustus is waiting for for quite a few years now. He simply wants to go to his “final” afterlife and not to live in the interim where he is alone and where he does not feel comfortable. He misses his wife, and his daughters joined her decades ago, he has been following his descendants and soon, everything will finish, will it?
As you may have imagined, no, not yet. Walter has another person who, unexpectedly, has found something related to him, something that will not let him to carry on to his afterlife. Moreover, Walter is joined by his former employer when he was alive, a man of whom Walter is afraid of and who Walter has always found overbearing. Their lives, or afterlives, are linked even if they do not like it and they may need to work together, which is not the most appealing idea for Walter, to find the end. Pemberton was, as I wrote, Walter’s boss and he was a very private man. He was totally bossy and not kind but appearances may not be trustworthy.
Pemberton and Walter are joined by Hector, a well-known person who has been for ages in the interim. Hector takes the lead and has all the ideas to make Letty forget Walter and moreover, destroy the item that keeps Walter and Pemberton in the interim. Letty, the lovely lady that, by a simple coincidence, gets the only object that reminds people of Walter and Pemberton, is ta saleswoman at one of the shops of a famous chain of cheap shoes. She has been working there for a few decades and we could say that her life is quite monotonous and some people may say that it is boring. Although Letty seems a sweet tempered girl, very amiable and you will not want her to be hurt. However, she has a secret, and she does not know how to tell her husband about the half-million pounds she has in her bank accounts. Although, her husband also has a secret. Two secrets that may bring a lot of confusion, mainly “thanks” to the “lovely” Victoria, Letty’s sister. She is just a pain in the neck if you let me write it plainly.
Back to Walter… #walterandletty Their lives are connected (or life and afterlife) and Letty will suffer a lot as spirits can be a bit of a nightmare even if they do not want to be. Walter has been alone in the interim because he chose to isolate himself and, therefore, he is not aware of many things that you can do in the interim as a spirit. He is clung to the past and he lives his afterlife almost the same way, just waiting to leave the interim.
However, Walter needs to learn and fast, with Pemberton and Hector’s help…. Poor Letty! her least concerns will be shoes pairing up together on their own or the smell of pear drops. She will think she is mad, she will resort to the ouija and, let’s say, it does not end up well.
If you have been reading some of my reviews, you know I do not like to give spoilers and this is not an exception but let me give you a few questions to think about:
What if spirits can move objects? What if spirits of our ascendants are there to protect us? What if spirits can invade our subconscious? What if our memories are just stored in boxes? What if love is possible even in the interim and afterlife? What if spirits can make grass stop growing?
July 31, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up
Normally fantasy and paranormal are not my reading jam, but there was something about the synopsis to The Afterlife of Walter Augustus that piqued my interest right from the start. I had this feeling that Walter Augustus was going to be like Ove (from A Man Called Ove) and I needed to see if I was right. I mean, who doesn’t just love Ove?
Walter Augustus is dead. He is living in the interim until no one remembers him anymore; then he can clear over to the other side and be with the rest of his family. Walter is very close to crossing that threshold when Letty will ruin everything. Letty is alive. Letty is about to be haunted: is she going crazy or are there really such things as ghosts?
It was a super cute read with charming characters; except for Letty’s sister Victoria and her family (stand your ground Letty for goodness sake). I loved Pemberton and felt I could actually smell his pear candy whenever he entered a scene. He was more like Ove, so I was almost right in my initial hypothesis.
I loved the concept of this book and author Hannah M. Lynn delivered a well structured story. It was full of humor and wit. So why 3.5 disco balls versus a 4? There was just one small story line that I wasn’t too keen on, but that should not deter anyone from reading this book. It’s just me being prickly. I recommend you read The Afterlife of Walter Augustus, so we can talk about it. Otherwise my lips are sealed: I don’t do spoilers! Hehe.
The book is on sale as part of the blog tour and available for $0.99 (Kindle) for the rest of the day! Jump on that deal stat!
I received an ebook from the author in exchange for my honest review.
To read my reviews visit: www.saturdaynitereader.com
October 10, 2018
Four stars
A really enjoyable story about the experience of one particular afterlifer one Walter Augustus. Such a likeable character that you can’t help but warm to him from the off.
A tale of intrigue and mystery even in the spirit world and the potential for things to go disastrously wrong when we do the basic human thing of meddling where we shouldn’t. I read this story in one sitting as I was so engrossed in how or even if things would resolve in a good way.
There’s a few good “life “ questions in there to ponder but it’s not a heavy read, as it sweeps you along with plenty of laughs along the way, and if you’re not sure about the spirit world you might be swayed after reading this!
Thoroughly enjoyed this, great characters and I really can’t wait to see more from this author.
A really enjoyable story about the experience of one particular afterlifer one Walter Augustus. Such a likeable character that you can’t help but warm to him from the off.
A tale of intrigue and mystery even in the spirit world and the potential for things to go disastrously wrong when we do the basic human thing of meddling where we shouldn’t. I read this story in one sitting as I was so engrossed in how or even if things would resolve in a good way.
There’s a few good “life “ questions in there to ponder but it’s not a heavy read, as it sweeps you along with plenty of laughs along the way, and if you’re not sure about the spirit world you might be swayed after reading this!
Thoroughly enjoyed this, great characters and I really can’t wait to see more from this author.
July 12, 2018
I loved this book! It wasn't what I expected, it's hard to slot it into any genre (which is actually part of its charm) but the story had me gripped. The characters are so beautifully described that reading the chapters, particularly those about Letty, was almost like looking through a window to thier lives. I really cared about what happened to these people. But far from you everyday drama the additional of the afterlife brings another dimension to this novel. Some super-natural drama that is again so cleverly woven through that it feel tangible, like a place we may really visit. Take this book on holiday, take it in the bath, on the train, read it in your lunch-break and enjoy the journey! It's charming, uplifting, whitty and a really good slice of something different!
Read
April 7, 2022DNF filed under “it’s not you, it’s me - it’s definitely me!”
I really don’t do well with constant time flips - not just memories but full on back & forth present to past and to be doing it with one person and then flipping between ppl, my brain just. can. not. right now.
To be clear - I love the writing. So maybe I’ll pick this up another time or check out other works by this author. Or hope it comes to TV/movie because the premise is really cool.
Narration:
I really enjoy Rafe Beckley’s performance.
(For me, perhaps, I would have done better if a female narrator was doing the parts from Letty’s perspective? I don’t know and certainly don’t expect expensive narration options catering to my mental gymnastics. 😂)
I really don’t do well with constant time flips - not just memories but full on back & forth present to past and to be doing it with one person and then flipping between ppl, my brain just. can. not. right now.
To be clear - I love the writing. So maybe I’ll pick this up another time or check out other works by this author. Or hope it comes to TV/movie because the premise is really cool.
Narration:
I really enjoy Rafe Beckley’s performance.
(For me, perhaps, I would have done better if a female narrator was doing the parts from Letty’s perspective? I don’t know and certainly don’t expect expensive narration options catering to my mental gymnastics. 😂)
August 8, 2018
The idea of the afterlife smelling of cut grass and fresh laundry was a humorous and intriguing start to a novel idea about the place people go when they pass on. I really liked Walter (waiting for what seemed to him to be eternity to move to the next level) and Letty (unwittingly thrust into something she couldn’t understand) and couldn’t wait to find out what happened to them next. Great! Couldn’t put it dow!
July 23, 2018
NOTE: REVIEW POSTED ORIGINALLY ON MY BLOG WWW.ALLIEEREADS.COM
I’m writing this review on the immediate tail-end of completing The Afterlife of Walter Augustus by Hannah Lynn, and I have so many feelings bursting out of me like little pockets of sunshine expending out of my pores.
Hannah Lynn weaves a sensational narrative depicting the rawness of reality and the inexplicability of life after death. The Afterlife of Walter Augustus tells the tale of a man outside the realm of time, and a woman stuck in mediocrity’s grasp. Walter Augustus lived and died in the 1800s; a British man, Augustus gained some notoriety for his poetry. Namely, a little blue book that will haunt him all the way into his afterlife. On earth, Letty Ferguson is a middle-aged shoe saleswoman and is decidedly not dead. Not only is Letty hiding a significant horde of wealth from her husband, Donald; but indirectly, holds Walter’s afterlife in the palm of her hands.
I must admit that, upon reading the first sentence, I was confused. Walter was where? Was he dead? What’s happening? But ultimately, that is the exact way in which Lynn pulls you into this sublime imagery of the afterlife but also depicting the very routine of the ordinary day through Letty. The story itself is something that I haven’t read before, and in that, it is a refreshing novel with a creative and hilarious twist. The reader’s attention is split between both Walter’s perspective and that of Letty’s, in the afterlife and on earth respectively. We are given details into Walter’s previous life on earth and his life within the afterlife sporadically throughout the entire novel, which honestly flowed much better within the overall story as this was shown in relation to Walter himself going through significant character development. Although Walter is technically dead, his character is not. He goes through change which fundamentally shifts his way of life and as a result, we see more of his personality shining through throughout the novel itself. Walter’s character is not stagnant, he even has his own romance, and the way in which Lynn portrays Walter’s growth is a thing of beauty. It happens subtly and quietly and towards the end, you are roaringly attached to Walter’s journey and you want him to achieve all the happiness in this world and beyond. However, for me, the character that honestly moved me to tears was Letty.
Letty reminded me of so many women whom I have met. Women who I know today. The beauty of her character is that everyone can relate to Letty in some way. She is a part of all of us, and I love her so much. I don’t know why exactly I adore her character, but it must be because of her inherent kindness and her gentleness. She is so aware of herself at all times, and I completely understand that feeling and I also know how incredibly exhausting that can be, which I believe Lynn illustrated wonderfully with the way Letty constantly criticises herself and the way she ‘nags’ her husband or interacts with her sister. Although I thoroughly enjoyed the ghost aspect of Letty’s story and the fact that Walter became a sort-of poltergeist and the hilarity which ensues with that, the real success of this story is Letty and her triumph over her life in general. I won’t go in complete denial, but let’s just say that I was on the edge of my seat waiting for Letty to finally give her sister, Victoria, a piece of her mind. When that finally happened, I actually shouted in triumph. To be quite honest, I am petty enough that I wished for a bigger bang between Letty and Victoria, only because Victoria annoyed me to no end. Victorian’s incessant manipulation of Letty, especially in constantly wanting money, was an aspect of the story that felt so real and honest to what can and does actually happen in real life between siblings. The guilt, the shame and the constant questioning of Letty’s morality as a result of saying no to her sister, was written with such rawness that it hit me in the heart.
Although Letty overshadowed Walter in terms of character development and plot line, the weaving of both stories that were happening simultaneously, is something that I have not seen done as well as Lynn has in The Afterlife of Walter Augustus. The one thing that I do wish was paid more attention to is a further exploration of the character John Edward Pemberton. He thoroughly interested me, I wanted to know more about his life, his family, his personality as he himself, goes through some sort of personal journey alongside Walter and I would have loved to have felt as though I was more a part of that. He was a fantastic side character who I wish I could’ve gotten to know more about.
What I hope this review tells you? Go out and buy this book. Do it. You’re on your computer/phone/tablet now anyway, just go check it out. It will not disappoint as it has literally everything you could ask for in a book: the supernatural, the suspense, the possible demonic activity, sibling drama, job drama and rude as hell customers. Literally everything.
In saying that, I then give The Afterlife of Walter Augustus by Hannah Lynn a 5 out of 5 stars because I love this book and I hope you will to.
Allie
I’m writing this review on the immediate tail-end of completing The Afterlife of Walter Augustus by Hannah Lynn, and I have so many feelings bursting out of me like little pockets of sunshine expending out of my pores.
Hannah Lynn weaves a sensational narrative depicting the rawness of reality and the inexplicability of life after death. The Afterlife of Walter Augustus tells the tale of a man outside the realm of time, and a woman stuck in mediocrity’s grasp. Walter Augustus lived and died in the 1800s; a British man, Augustus gained some notoriety for his poetry. Namely, a little blue book that will haunt him all the way into his afterlife. On earth, Letty Ferguson is a middle-aged shoe saleswoman and is decidedly not dead. Not only is Letty hiding a significant horde of wealth from her husband, Donald; but indirectly, holds Walter’s afterlife in the palm of her hands.
I must admit that, upon reading the first sentence, I was confused. Walter was where? Was he dead? What’s happening? But ultimately, that is the exact way in which Lynn pulls you into this sublime imagery of the afterlife but also depicting the very routine of the ordinary day through Letty. The story itself is something that I haven’t read before, and in that, it is a refreshing novel with a creative and hilarious twist. The reader’s attention is split between both Walter’s perspective and that of Letty’s, in the afterlife and on earth respectively. We are given details into Walter’s previous life on earth and his life within the afterlife sporadically throughout the entire novel, which honestly flowed much better within the overall story as this was shown in relation to Walter himself going through significant character development. Although Walter is technically dead, his character is not. He goes through change which fundamentally shifts his way of life and as a result, we see more of his personality shining through throughout the novel itself. Walter’s character is not stagnant, he even has his own romance, and the way in which Lynn portrays Walter’s growth is a thing of beauty. It happens subtly and quietly and towards the end, you are roaringly attached to Walter’s journey and you want him to achieve all the happiness in this world and beyond. However, for me, the character that honestly moved me to tears was Letty.
Letty reminded me of so many women whom I have met. Women who I know today. The beauty of her character is that everyone can relate to Letty in some way. She is a part of all of us, and I love her so much. I don’t know why exactly I adore her character, but it must be because of her inherent kindness and her gentleness. She is so aware of herself at all times, and I completely understand that feeling and I also know how incredibly exhausting that can be, which I believe Lynn illustrated wonderfully with the way Letty constantly criticises herself and the way she ‘nags’ her husband or interacts with her sister. Although I thoroughly enjoyed the ghost aspect of Letty’s story and the fact that Walter became a sort-of poltergeist and the hilarity which ensues with that, the real success of this story is Letty and her triumph over her life in general. I won’t go in complete denial, but let’s just say that I was on the edge of my seat waiting for Letty to finally give her sister, Victoria, a piece of her mind. When that finally happened, I actually shouted in triumph. To be quite honest, I am petty enough that I wished for a bigger bang between Letty and Victoria, only because Victoria annoyed me to no end. Victorian’s incessant manipulation of Letty, especially in constantly wanting money, was an aspect of the story that felt so real and honest to what can and does actually happen in real life between siblings. The guilt, the shame and the constant questioning of Letty’s morality as a result of saying no to her sister, was written with such rawness that it hit me in the heart.
Although Letty overshadowed Walter in terms of character development and plot line, the weaving of both stories that were happening simultaneously, is something that I have not seen done as well as Lynn has in The Afterlife of Walter Augustus. The one thing that I do wish was paid more attention to is a further exploration of the character John Edward Pemberton. He thoroughly interested me, I wanted to know more about his life, his family, his personality as he himself, goes through some sort of personal journey alongside Walter and I would have loved to have felt as though I was more a part of that. He was a fantastic side character who I wish I could’ve gotten to know more about.
What I hope this review tells you? Go out and buy this book. Do it. You’re on your computer/phone/tablet now anyway, just go check it out. It will not disappoint as it has literally everything you could ask for in a book: the supernatural, the suspense, the possible demonic activity, sibling drama, job drama and rude as hell customers. Literally everything.
In saying that, I then give The Afterlife of Walter Augustus by Hannah Lynn a 5 out of 5 stars because I love this book and I hope you will to.
Allie
July 3, 2018
Full disclosure: I was sent a free copy of this book so that I could review it.
Do you know what I like? I like authors that aren't one trick ponies. I like an author who is capable of writing two very different sorts of novels. I remember feeling this way (begrudgingly) about Connie Willis when, after reading To Say Nothing About the Dog, I picked up Doomsday Book, expecting it to be lighthearted and funny and ended up sobbing through the whole second half. In that vein, The Aftelife of Walter Augustus is thematically nothing like Amendments. Granted, it's been a few years since I read Amendments, but that one was largely the expected sort of YA novel. It broke out of the general mold for such books in interesting ways, but it was very YA. This novel is not YA.
I mean, it COULD be YA, but there's no doesn't-realize-she's-pretty heroine trying to choose between love and duty in this one. I don't summarize in my reviews 'cause I figure if you want to know what a book is about, you can read the back of the cover, and the back of the cover would show that this is not the same sort of book as Amendments. Variety is neat.
The premise is interesting. I wish there'd been more depth of emotion. I was not as hooked as I was with Amendments. Still, I enjoyed it.
Edit: This concept of the afterlife has really stuck with me and, the more I think about it, the more unfair it is. For example, surveyors, right? They're people who draw maps, and the maps get put on record, and EVERY DEED for DECADES, if not centuries, will reference that map and that surveyor by name so, sorry surveyor, you don't get to move on, not so long as the county clerk has your map on record. Also, as the book points out, the whole thing with the internet keeping names findable is just... disturbing, if this notion of the afterlife were true.
The fact that I am this concerned about surveyors in the fictional world and still thinking about the book a week later speaks well to its sticking power.
Do you know what I like? I like authors that aren't one trick ponies. I like an author who is capable of writing two very different sorts of novels. I remember feeling this way (begrudgingly) about Connie Willis when, after reading To Say Nothing About the Dog, I picked up Doomsday Book, expecting it to be lighthearted and funny and ended up sobbing through the whole second half. In that vein, The Aftelife of Walter Augustus is thematically nothing like Amendments. Granted, it's been a few years since I read Amendments, but that one was largely the expected sort of YA novel. It broke out of the general mold for such books in interesting ways, but it was very YA. This novel is not YA.
I mean, it COULD be YA, but there's no doesn't-realize-she's-pretty heroine trying to choose between love and duty in this one. I don't summarize in my reviews 'cause I figure if you want to know what a book is about, you can read the back of the cover, and the back of the cover would show that this is not the same sort of book as Amendments. Variety is neat.
The premise is interesting. I wish there'd been more depth of emotion. I was not as hooked as I was with Amendments. Still, I enjoyed it.
Edit: This concept of the afterlife has really stuck with me and, the more I think about it, the more unfair it is. For example, surveyors, right? They're people who draw maps, and the maps get put on record, and EVERY DEED for DECADES, if not centuries, will reference that map and that surveyor by name so, sorry surveyor, you don't get to move on, not so long as the county clerk has your map on record. Also, as the book points out, the whole thing with the internet keeping names findable is just... disturbing, if this notion of the afterlife were true.
The fact that I am this concerned about surveyors in the fictional world and still thinking about the book a week later speaks well to its sticking power.
July 31, 2018
I finished reading this book 10 days ago and am only just now getting around to writing this review, which is so unlike me! I have to say that the premise of this book is so interesting: when you die you go to the Interim, a kind of in-between heaven, until you are forgotten on Earth.
This story is told from dual perspectives:
➡️ Walter J. Augustus has been dead since the 1800s and slowly waiting for the last person on Earth that remembered him to pass away so he could be reunited with his family in Heaven.
➡️ Letty Ferguson is not dead and through a series of random events, she comes across Walter's book. And then their stories collide.
I found myself struggling a bit with Letty's POV and found my mind wandering quite a bit during her chapters but overall really enjoyed this refreshing read. I definitely was wondering about this Hector fellow and his ~intentions~ and found myself invested in the 'dead' cast of characters and what would happen to them. I loved Walter's character so much and enjoyed learning about his past. I'd definitely recommend this to someone interested in a unique and fast-paced read.
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'It's how people get trapped. Five minutes of fame. Less for some. And that's it. Once your name is on that thing [Google], eternity in the interim awaits. There is no escape.'I really enjoyed the unique perspective and the whole twist of what happens to those that reach immortality in life because they are remembered. I found myself thinking about poor Plato and Sophocles and William Shakespeare being relegated to this in-between Heaven for all of eternity! I do wish that these famous people were explored more in the Interim because it would have made an interesting addition.
This story is told from dual perspectives:
➡️ Walter J. Augustus has been dead since the 1800s and slowly waiting for the last person on Earth that remembered him to pass away so he could be reunited with his family in Heaven.
➡️ Letty Ferguson is not dead and through a series of random events, she comes across Walter's book. And then their stories collide.
I found myself struggling a bit with Letty's POV and found my mind wandering quite a bit during her chapters but overall really enjoyed this refreshing read. I definitely was wondering about this Hector fellow and his ~intentions~ and found myself invested in the 'dead' cast of characters and what would happen to them. I loved Walter's character so much and enjoyed learning about his past. I'd definitely recommend this to someone interested in a unique and fast-paced read.
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August 5, 2018
Hannah Lynn takes us on a thoroughly enjoyable romp through the afterlife in this fun read about what happens when we shuffle off this mortal coil. Be warned, though: it may shatter some of your illusions about what happens after death! This was an easy, feel-good read. It was great fun, although I found it a little long in places. I became hugely fond of Walter, who departed this life at least a century ago, and the wonderful Lettie, still alive, who innocently becomes embroiled in a series of baffling events quite beyond her control. Do yourself a favour and make sure you beg or borrow this book so you can - at the very least - read the first paragraph about why the afterlife smells as it does – it’s simply glorious!
May 23, 2019
I enjoyed this book. The characters of Walter and Letty were both likeable and endearing. The landscapes they inhabited were beautifully described and all drawn with a lightness of touch. My only criticism is the character of Letty's sister felt a bit overdone, almost pantomime villain and her husband too weak but maybe that's just my take. Don't let that put you off. If you want a lighthearted and thoughtful book with a strong witty undercurrent this is for you. A unique story with a feel good ending.
August 5, 2018
A lovely, heartwarming and emotional story, ‘The Afterlife of Walter Augustus’ is a gentle read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Walter is a character I warmed to straight away and the depiction of the afterlife in this book is captivating.
Beautifully written, with storylines that intertwine seamlessly, Walter and Letty take us on a journey full of warmth, love and humour that I did not want to end. A moving 4 star read that I highly recommend.
Thank you to TBC and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read and review this lovely book.
Beautifully written, with storylines that intertwine seamlessly, Walter and Letty take us on a journey full of warmth, love and humour that I did not want to end. A moving 4 star read that I highly recommend.
Thank you to TBC and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read and review this lovely book.
July 20, 2018
I signed up with the author for a blog tour and I thank the stars that I did. I honestly don’t think I’d have read it as it’s not my normal kind of read.
Straight away Walter is a very likeable character. I really liked him. I was also drawn to Letty as I read more of the story.
Great praise to the author for this well written story. I’m so glad I didn’t miss out on reading it. This truly is a beautiful read.
Straight away Walter is a very likeable character. I really liked him. I was also drawn to Letty as I read more of the story.
Great praise to the author for this well written story. I’m so glad I didn’t miss out on reading it. This truly is a beautiful read.
August 5, 2018
The Afterlife of Walter Augustus
The blurb from this book really drew me in; something a bit different to my ‘go-to’ psychological thrillers. Best described as a paranormal romance, with a handful of comedy thrown in!
The plot is great, the characters are strong, interesting and instantly endearing. Reading this book was a real treat and I highly recommend that you pick up a copy and have a delve into this beautifully written and heart warming story. 4.5 shiny stars from purplebookstand.
The blurb from this book really drew me in; something a bit different to my ‘go-to’ psychological thrillers. Best described as a paranormal romance, with a handful of comedy thrown in!
The plot is great, the characters are strong, interesting and instantly endearing. Reading this book was a real treat and I highly recommend that you pick up a copy and have a delve into this beautifully written and heart warming story. 4.5 shiny stars from purplebookstand.
September 28, 2018
Highly enjoyable.
March 5, 2019
We are proud to announce that THE AFTERLIFE OF WALTER AUGUSTUS by Hannah M. Lynn is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!
July 12, 2018
Let me first declare that I received an advance copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not paid for the review. The opinions are my own. Walter Augustus, in his actual life, was a farrier. But he was a farrier with a difference. He wrote a book that comes back to haunt him. Now he’s dead; unless everyone on earth forgets him, he’s destined to a “life” in limbo. The genre is fantasy but the story is also realistic. Well, the bits in the real world are anyway. It really is a fascinating and entertaining read. To achieve his aim of being forgotten, Walter has to exercise his demons. He must enter some bodies to locate memories in order to erase them. In the end, the story is uplifting and a real page turner. A really good first up novel for Hannah Lynn.
July 20, 2018
My friend recommended this on Facebook and it came free with Kindle Unlimited but honestly it would have been worth the money to pay for it. Really enjoyable, well written.
October 6, 2018
Interesting premise
Well thought out premise, if delves into the after life and what that could be like. I have a different opinion about what to expect when you cross over. Good read, well written, gets you thinking. Thanks
Well thought out premise, if delves into the after life and what that could be like. I have a different opinion about what to expect when you cross over. Good read, well written, gets you thinking. Thanks
November 7, 2019
Very enjoyable read with great characterisation. A very elegantly written book with humour and several touching moments. It would make a great film
May 2, 2021
3.5 Stars
First off I want to say thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and for allowing me to take part in the blog tour.
This book is told from 2 POV. One being from Walter in the Afterlife and the other being from Letty who is still living. Each chapter switches between the two and at first I wasn’t getting how these two “stories” had anything to do with each other. I say stories because that’s how it felt at first. It felt like I was reading 2 different stories in one book but they did eventually come together and make sense.
Lets start with Walter. Like I mentioned above he is in the Afterlife. He is actually in the interim waiting for everyone on earth to forget him so he can move on to the next stage of the afterlife and be with his wife again. I find the concept of this book to be unique and I definitely enjoyed reading it.
I’m not going to go into details here because of spoilers but there are some things that happens that brings some other characters into play. My issue here is how Walter went along with everything this character said even though it was so clear that he couldn’t be trusted.
Next up is Letty. I think I enjoyed reading the chapters from her POV at first but eventually they both started to have aspects that annoyed me so much. Letty is a grown woman yet she lets her sister walk all over her and talk down to her and that really started to bug me. There was a lot of character growth with Letty though because she does eventually stand up for herself.
One other thing that didn’t really bother me so much as I just don’t understand the big deal about it and that is her whole money situation. If this was me I would be looking at it as a good thing not as a bad thing.
This book was a little slow going at first but it eventually pulled me in. I enjoyed some of the poems that were included throughout as well. Like I’ve said I think the concept was unique and I did overall enjoy the story.
First off I want to say thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and for allowing me to take part in the blog tour.
This book is told from 2 POV. One being from Walter in the Afterlife and the other being from Letty who is still living. Each chapter switches between the two and at first I wasn’t getting how these two “stories” had anything to do with each other. I say stories because that’s how it felt at first. It felt like I was reading 2 different stories in one book but they did eventually come together and make sense.
Lets start with Walter. Like I mentioned above he is in the Afterlife. He is actually in the interim waiting for everyone on earth to forget him so he can move on to the next stage of the afterlife and be with his wife again. I find the concept of this book to be unique and I definitely enjoyed reading it.
I’m not going to go into details here because of spoilers but there are some things that happens that brings some other characters into play. My issue here is how Walter went along with everything this character said even though it was so clear that he couldn’t be trusted.
Next up is Letty. I think I enjoyed reading the chapters from her POV at first but eventually they both started to have aspects that annoyed me so much. Letty is a grown woman yet she lets her sister walk all over her and talk down to her and that really started to bug me. There was a lot of character growth with Letty though because she does eventually stand up for herself.
One other thing that didn’t really bother me so much as I just don’t understand the big deal about it and that is her whole money situation. If this was me I would be looking at it as a good thing not as a bad thing.
This book was a little slow going at first but it eventually pulled me in. I enjoyed some of the poems that were included throughout as well. Like I’ve said I think the concept was unique and I did overall enjoy the story.
August 3, 2018
I've always believed that the dead have never really gone whilst there is someone left to remember them, however I had never thought that it might not be a good thing for the dear departed!
Walter Augustus has been waiting in the 'interim' ready to move on for a very long time. He had been afarrier, but was also a part time poet. A helpful gentleman got his poetry published and although there is only one copy left it is holding him back.
Letty is a busy manager of a shoe shop, with a part time hobby of cake making. She has an uncomfortable secret- she has somehow managed to save a lot of money & worries how the tell her husband. When she is given Walter's poetry book strange things start to happen.
Told from the dual perspective of Walter & Letty this is a book full of laughs, but also some sad moments.I thoroughly enjoyed this mad romp & was a great change from the darker books I tend to read.
Walter Augustus has been waiting in the 'interim' ready to move on for a very long time. He had been afarrier, but was also a part time poet. A helpful gentleman got his poetry published and although there is only one copy left it is holding him back.
Letty is a busy manager of a shoe shop, with a part time hobby of cake making. She has an uncomfortable secret- she has somehow managed to save a lot of money & worries how the tell her husband. When she is given Walter's poetry book strange things start to happen.
Told from the dual perspective of Walter & Letty this is a book full of laughs, but also some sad moments.I thoroughly enjoyed this mad romp & was a great change from the darker books I tend to read.
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