If you are in the mood for sweet, cozy Christmas novella that ushers you into the true meaning of Christmas, then I would offer that A Carol for Mrs. Dickens is your next read. Rebecca Connolly takes a creative approach to the beloved classic by having Dickens’ wife experience a similar encounter her husband wrote about. Feeling detached from the joy and spirit of the season, Catherine finds herself going through the motions and missing how it all used to mean more. She has the privilege of experiencing her own encounter with a mysterious cook who takes her on three separate journeys to reignite what has grown cold. It is sweet, touching, and poignant. I loved the fresh perspective on a favorite classic and genuinely recommend for anyone looking for a meaningful Christmas short story that packs a punch.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley, and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

This may become a new holiday tradition for me to read this every Christmas Season as a gentle memory refresher of what’s important! I related to Kate so much! Sometimes life just pulls you down and you forget the wonders Christmas used to bring. This book is a glorious reminder to one and all of what Christmas has to offer if we are willing to make the choice to truly experience it in our hearts. It wraps you in warmth and fills your heart with the joy of the Season and would be lovely to read snuggled up next to a lit Christmas tree. I also really enjoyed reading the author’s notes at the end about Victorian Christmas Traditions and History. Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing, I received a complimentary ARC copy with no obligation to post a positive review. The thoughts and opinions are my own.

You know, there was a lot of depth in this story. For such a short read, I found myself really pulled in, sympathizing with and totally understanding the mindset Kate was in. Yes, it’s a Christmas story, but I feel like the lessons she learns through her experience were so enlightening. There was a lot to take away, wisdom that could be applied throughout the year, not just during the holidays.

Kate is going through all the usual Christmas festivities, but this year, she’s not feeling any joy in it at all. And that’s not exactly ideal when you’re the wife of Charles Dickens. But when the magic of Christmas Past illuminates some long-buried memories, Kate begins to see Christmas and her life as a mother, wife, and believer in a new light.

This was a cozy read. I loved the length, the descriptions were perfect, and I truly felt pulled into the story and the emotions it stirred up.

I gave this 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.

𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐋𝐄: A Carol for Mrs. Dickens
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: Rebecca Connolly
𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐒: Standalone
𝐏𝐔𝐁𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐇𝐄𝐑: Shadow Mountain Publisher 
𝐏𝐔𝐁 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄: Sep 23, 2025
𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: Historical Fiction / Christmas Novella
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐨 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 @rebeccaconnollyauthor and @shadowmountainpub

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

{𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒}
This novella is a warm, festive take on the Christmas classic we all know—only this time, the spotlight belongs to Catherine Dickens. Rather than Scrooge, we follow Catherine in 1851, a year when she is overwhelmed balancing motherhood (eight children and one more on the way), her husband’s extravagant holiday traditions, and her own quiet grief.
Through a magical sprig of holly, Catherine is led on three transformative journeys into her own Christmas memories—her version of Dickens’ “ghosts.” These moments are tender and heartfelt, offering an intimate exploration of what Christmas once meant to her, and what it still can mean.
The writing beautifully captures the Victorian holiday atmosphere—bustling London markets, flickering candlelight, and gatherings filled with music, warmth, and emotion. While at times I wished the story lingered more deeply on Catherine’s struggles, the overall message shines: love, memory, and small acts of connection are what give Christmas its enduring magic.
It’s cozy, touching, and perfect for curling up with on a winter evening. If you’re searching for a holiday read that blends Dickensian warmth with a fresh perspective, A Carol for Mrs. Dickens is a wonderful choice.

{𝐇𝐀𝐒𝐇𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐒}
#ACarolForMrsDickens #RebeccaConnolly #ShadowMountainPublishing #ChristmasReads #HistoricalFiction #BookReview #HolidayReads #VictorianChristmas

My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing. I'm voluntarily leaving a review.

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christmas

A CAROL FOR MRS. DICKENS is a warm hug for the Christmas season.

I enjoyed this tiny book for its sweet message. There's a nod to the ghosts in A Christmas Carol but with a different, more personal message. The focus on giving and the birth of Christ is refreshing in a Christmas message-centered book.

The story also really delves into Mrs. Dickens experiences and her need for solace and purpose.

I recommend this fictional story about Mrs. Dickens.

Happy reading!

4.5/5 Stars Rating
This book is a cozy, heartwarming Christmas holiday read! Set in 1851, it follows Catherine Dickens (wife of THE Charles Dickens) as she’s overwhelmed by holiday chaos during her current life season of motherhood. A wise cook and a little sprig of holly spark three touching visions of her past. Kate rediscovers the true meaning of Christmas through memories, love, and faith. The vivid Victorian setting and Kate’s journey of finding the joy in Christmas makes this a touching historical fiction read. Mothers will be especially touched by this story.

Mild Content to Note:
•Mention of death of family members and Kate's baby.
•Descriptions of poverty.
•Hinted that the punch at the Christmas party is spiked.
•The word “magic” is used several times to describe the Christmas season — I personally prefer more classic terms to describe Christmas.

All in all a heart touching Christmas read!!

Special thank you to NetGalley, Shadow Mountain Publishers, and AustenProse for this ARC!

In A Carol for Mrs. Dickens we get a peek into the life of Mrs. Catherine Dickens, the wife of Charles Dickens, famous author of A Christmas Carol. I enjoyed this fictionalized story of Catherine Dickens’ journey through her memories as she searches for the real meaning of Christmas and the joy she has lost. This is a beautiful story. Perfect to read each year. The hustle and bustle can be overwhelming, but this story slowed me down and reminded me of why I celebrate the season. This would also make a lovely gift. I received a free copy, and opinions are my own.

In A Carol for Mrs. Dickens, Catherine Dickens, (wife of author Charles Dickens), overwhelmed by motherhood, social duties, and the shadow of her husband’s fame as “the man who invented Christmas, has lost her holiday spirit. But a chance meeting with a kind cook and a magical sprig of holly sends her on multiple heartwarming journeys into her past, offering a chance to rediscover joy, love, and the meaning of Christmas. Inspired by real events, this story is a tender reminder that the holiday’s true magic lies in connection, hope, and healing. One of the best reimaginings of “A Christmas Carol” I have read, this is delightful holiday novella. Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC!

This is such a cozy and festive read. I wanted to curl up with a blanket and hot cocoa while reading it. Everything in the story is told from Catherine Dickens point of view. She is trying to enjoy the Christmas holiday while grieving the loss of a child and being hopeful for the one to come. It is similar to a Christmas Carol in many ways but the pages of this tale are more dear to my heart. I loved every chapter and this is easily going to be a new annual Christmas read. This short book shows the true meaning and sweetness of the holiday season. It also shows real life difficulties and that sometimes we have to really search and consider our focus to find joy.

I enjoyed!

Five Stars.





"I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review."

#ACarolForMrsDickens #NetGalley

A Christmas story told from the viewpoint of Mrs. Kate Dickens. The Christmas traditions set by her husband Charles hosting a party for friends on Christmas Eve feels like too much for Kate, who is expecting a baby, and in the middle of grieving, her heart just isn't into Christmas. Kate experiences her own three Christmas memories instead of three Christmas ghosts as told in the beloved book written by her husband. I enjoyed this novella as it sets the tone for the Christmas season.

This is a delightful novella about a woman struggling to find the Christmas spirit. One of her children died earlier in the year, and her husband is Mr. Christmas after the success of A Christmas Carol. But three unexpected visits to memories of happier times could make the difference.

I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to everyone.

This is Christian fiction so expect discussions of the true meaning of the season.

Family friendly.

Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

“A Carol for Mrs. Dickens” is a super cozy take on the classic Christmas vibe, putting Catherine Dickens, Charles Dickens’ wife, front and center instead of old Scrooge. It’s 1851, and Catherine’s feeling wiped out from juggling eight kids (with another on the way), throwing epic holiday parties, and keeping up with her husband’s over-the-top Christmas obsession. A magical sprig of holly sends her on a trip down memory lane, helping her rediscover why she used to love the season. It’s got that warm, Dickensian Christmas glow, but feels fresh with its focus on Catherine’s personal journey.

The writing pulls you right into Victorian London, think twinkling lights, bustling markets, and all the holiday feels. Catherine’s memory-hopping adventures are vivid and heartfelt, making you root for her to find her spark again. That said, the story drags a bit in spots, and I wished it dug deeper into why Catherine’s so down instead of leaning on the whole “count your blessings” angle. A little more focus on her struggles and a stronger wrap-up would’ve made her journey hit even harder.

Still, this book’s a total holiday gem. It’s warm, touching, and perfect for curling up with on a winter night. It skips the ghosts of “A Christmas Carol” but keeps the heart, showing how small moments of love and connection can bring back the magic. If you’re picking one Christmas read this season, “A Carol for Mrs. Dickens” is a solid bet for something sweet and meaningful without being too heavy.

Many thanks to NetGalley, author Rebecca Connelly, and Shadow Mountain Publishing for providing me with an advanced, digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

What a lovely story for Christmas time. Getting a glance at the famous Mr.Dickens’ wife in a fictional way. The story kinda is her version of A Christmas Carol. The book has lots of informative information in the back of the book that explains the time period and how traditions came about. Wonderful wonderful story for the Christmas season.

Rebecca Connolly has done it again! This was a delightful read from start to finish! The book is full of themes of second chances and redemption. The plot was well-paced and the characters were lovely. This is definitely one I'll read again! Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book.

I have to start by saying I LOVE Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol so I was really excited to read an alternate version for Mrs. Dickens. Free from the ghostly haunts of the original tale we have Mrs. Dickens exploring her past to find her love of Christmas rekindled. Pregnant, mothering, planning and hosting duties have all got Mrs. Dicken's feeling a bit out of sorts this Christmas Eve. Deciding that she will make the most of what she has, during the annual Dicken's Christmas Party, Kate finds herself 'slipping away' and revisiting her memories.

I found this story adorable and fun to read. I was hoping for a bit more depth and real examining of why Kate was so downhearted to begin with followed by an actual solution moving forward beyond the 'mind over matter'. :"Attitude of gratitude" "remember your blessings' type of thing. I felt the pacing was a bit slow and didn't keep me captivated. I left and returned to this story because I was hoping for a good ending.

Overall a 3.5 out 5- good idea, love Christmas books and a nice twist on classic.

Rebecca Connolly has taken a Charles Dickens classic and given it a twist. Mrs. Dickens, the protaganist in "A Carol for Mrs. Dickens," is worried about finishing everthing that needs done by Christmas eve and still feel the spirit and joy of Christmas. Have we not all been there? Rushing around; wanting everything to just perfert; and pushing the real meaning behind the holiday aside. Although set in the 1800s, the emotions that Mrs. Dickens encounters are so true for today's world. Mrs. Dickens is given three memories into other Christmases to help her regain the spirit of Christmas. This is a quick read that offers so much in keeping one grounded as the Christmas season approaches.

Catherine Dickens is no Scrooge, but she is tired of the extravagance and fanfare of Christmas.

Charles has become an overzealous Mr. Christmas, leaving her emotionally and physically spent.

With the help of a few forgotten memories, Catherine discovers joy anew.

I loved how this had ties to A Christmas Carol but still felt new and fresh.

Such a heartwarming and delightful Christmas treat.

A moving journey that was beautifully written. I felt I was walking right alongside, immersed in the grandeur and magic of a Dickens Christmas

Thank you to NetGalley and Laurel Ann Nattress of Austenprose for the copy. All opinions are my own.

“A Carol for Mrs. Dickens” by Rebecca Connolly is a charming novella for the Christmas season. In a clever twist (not Oliver) it is Mrs. Catherine (Kate) Dickens who meets 3 versions of herself on Christmas Eve. Does it change her like it did Mr. Scrooge?

The characters are delightful in this book. Excuberant, clever, charming- Charles Dickens is Mr. Christmas as he plans a beautiful Christmas Eve party for all his friends and acquaintances. He loves the joy and spirit of the season with plenty of food and entertainment. His wife has had a sad year, and while she remains sweet and charming, she isn’t in the mood to celebrate, until…

I highly recommend this charming book. Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Press for an advance review copy. This is my honest review.

A Carol for Mrs. Dickens
by Rebecca Connolly is a great novella that helps put the heart and promise into a festive season.

I enjoyed this quick novella that was a take on Dickens’ classic novel. This time it is his wife, Catherine, that needs the self-reflection. She has the right foundation, that Christmas is ultimately about the birth of Christ, however this meaning loses its purpose if one is deflated, down, and dreading day to day life and looking at things as drudgeries.

This time of remembrance and reflection helps pull out the love and passion for life that she still has for life and her husband and helps her realize this in time to celebrate all the reasons for the season.

4.5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Shadow Mountain Publishing for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 9/23/25.

A new twist on A Christmas Carol
Rebecca Connolly has done it again in this wonderful, thought-provoking story. Christmas has come again and Catherine, Kate, Dickens feels the burdens of the season. With decorations, parties, guests, pregnancy, and of course her children and husband Charles, she is feeling overwhelmed, overworked, and not at all merry and bright. When an encounter with a temporary cook sends her on her own adventure reliving some of her best Christmas memories attitudes and values are re-evaluated. Can she find the Christmas she used to know? A wonderful heart touching story. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy. This is my review and all thoughts are my own.