Robert Marro Jr.’s “Ebenezer Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas Love” is a daring and heartfelt continuation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”. Marro revisits the transformed Ebenezer Scrooge, exploring the complexities of love, redemption, and second chances, set against a rich Victorian backdrop.
The story picks up four years after Scrooge’s fateful night of ghostly visits. Scrooge, now a generous benefactor and surrogate family member to the Cratchits, continues to carry the weight of past regrets—particularly his abandonment of Allyce Bainbridge, his former fiancée. The novel blends historical fiction with Dickensian nostalgia, using Scrooge’s quest for reconciliation and love as a lens to examine themes of personal growth and sacrifice.
Despite his outward transformation, Scrooge’s internal struggle remains. Though surrounded by kindness and generosity, he cannot shake the deep loneliness that lingers in his heart. His longing for the love of Allyce Bainbridge, whom he abandoned years ago, drives him to seek reconciliation. When he learns that Allyce is now a widow, Scrooge is filled with both hope and regret, but his clumsy attempts to regain her trust are met with bitter rejection.
It is only through the intervention of the mysterious “Ghost of Christmas Love,” guided by the enduring presence of Jacob Marley, that Scrooge begins to understand the true nature of love and sacrifice. As Scrooge embarks on a journey to right the wrongs of his past, he is aided by unexpected allies—including Florence Nightingale—and confronted with difficult choices that test the limits of his generosity and heart. This sequel, brimming with warmth and redemption, highlights not only Scrooge’s continued growth but also the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds.
What sets this sequel apart is its ambitious scope. Marro not only weaves in beloved characters from Dickens’ classic, like Bob Cratchit and his now-thriving family but also introduces new elements that enrich the narrative. The inclusion of historical figures, like Florence Nightingale, adds authenticity and grandeur, while Scrooge’s eccentric new companions, such as Julius and Caesar—the stray kittens he adopts—offer moments of humour and tenderness.
The story captures the flavour of Victorian England without being inaccessible. Marro’s deep affection for the source material is evident in his respectful imitation of Dickens’ style while effortlessly crafting his own narrative style throughout. However, the novel doesn’t shy away from exploring contemporary themes through its historical lens, such as social justice and the personal cost of redemption. Scrooge’s internal struggles feel modern and relatable, especially as he grapples with the question of whether love can truly heal old wounds.
The climax, involving the enigmatic “Ghost of Christmas Love”, is both poignant and thought-provoking. Scrooge’s path to reconciliation with Allyce requires more than apologies—it demands a level of selflessness that challenges his newfound principles. The resolution strikes a balance between sentimentality and realism, ensuring the sequel stands on its own merit.
Robert Marro Jr.’s novel is a heartwarming exploration of Ebenezer Scrooge’s continued journey, offering rich historical insights that deepen the story’s emotional resonance. While the pacing may slow at times due to these thoughtful details, they only serve to enhance the depth of the world around Scrooge. Ultimately, the vibrant character development and the emotional payoffs Marro crafts bring a fulfilling and uplifting experience to readers.
Overall, “Ebenezer Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas Love” is a thoughtful, well-crafted sequel that honours Dickens’ original while carving its own niche in the Christmas literary canon. It is a must-read for fans of “A Christmas Carol” and anyone seeking a heartwarming tale of redemption and enduring love. Just as Dickens’ work has become an annual tradition, this sequel might earn a permanent spot alongside it in your holiday reading.
“Ebenezer Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas Love”, by Robert Marro Jr., is available to buy on e-book, audiobook, and hardback, published via Post Hill Press and distributed by Simon & Schuster. A sequel is reportedly in the works, with a tentative title of “Livinia”.