Mr. Dickens and His Carol
"CHARMING...I READ IT IN A COUPLE OF EBULLIENT, CHRISTMASSY GULPS." --Anthony Doerr, #1 New York Times bestselling author of All The Light We Cannot See
"GRACED BY THE GHOSTLY PRESENCE OF MR. DICKENS HIMSELF...PROMISES TO PUT YOU IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT." --USA TodayA beloved, irresistible novel that reimagines the story behind Charles Dickens' Christmas classic Charles Dickens is not feeling the Christmas spirit. His newest book is an utter flop, the critics have turned against him, relatives near and far hound him for money. While his wife plans a lavish holiday party for their ever-expanding family and circle of friends, Dickens has visions of the poor house. But when his publishers try to blackmail him into writing a Christmas book to save them all from financial ruin, he refuses. And a serious bout of writer's block sets in. Frazzled and filled with self-doubt, Dickens seeks solace in his great palace of thinking, the city of London itself. On one of his long night walks, in a once-beloved square, he meets the mysterious Eleanor Lovejoy, who might be just the muse he needs. As Dickens' deadlines close in, Eleanor propels him on a Scrooge-like journey that tests everything he believes about generosity, friendship, ambition, and love. The story he writes will change Christmas forever.
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Community Reviews
I really enjoyed this book. Well written and it captures London very well. There was a moment when I was not happy about the direction the main character was taking, but I enjoyed the redemption plot and how it mirrors A Christmas Carol.
I was looking to read something “Christmas-y” and this fit the moment. A quick read which had you imagining a bygone era-all the good and bad with redemption in the end.
“Flee all you like,” she said, turning to face him. “Your past is quicker than you are and will catch you soon enough.”
Initially, I was drawn to this book by its lovely cover. Then I opened it and was instantly drawn in by its beautiful prose, witty lines, and heart-felt story.
If you, too, like these things, along with lovable, flawed, quirky characters (including ghosts!), surprising twists, and an uplifting story of hope and humanity, this book is for you. It’s a charming, entertaining new take on the inspiration and events leading to the deliverance of a Dicken’s classic.
Initially, I was drawn to this book by its lovely cover. Then I opened it and was instantly drawn in by its beautiful prose, witty lines, and heart-felt story.
If you, too, like these things, along with lovable, flawed, quirky characters (including ghosts!), surprising twists, and an uplifting story of hope and humanity, this book is for you. It’s a charming, entertaining new take on the inspiration and events leading to the deliverance of a Dicken’s classic.
I really enjoyed this story - a classic unto itself. The author does an excellent job of giving us a fantastical glimpse into the muses and catalysts for some of the greatest stories ever written.
Enjoyable quick read that leads to discussion of the actual Christmas carol, the Dickensian age and how to write historical fiction.. Fun for book club.
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