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Christmas in Garland Collection #1
Project Scrooge
Can Scrooge find love from a friendship gone cold?
Sanford Stone cut ties with his best friend, Natalie, in favor of the love of his life … a woman who ended up walking out on him just before Christmas. Six years later, Sanford can’t bring himself to celebrate Christ’s birth with any joy. Little does he know, his grandmother and her companions have dubbed him the Scrooge and intend to help him overcome his bitterness and find happiness again.
The only thing that has hurt Natalie Dunivan more than Sanford cutting her out of his life has been watching his long-held grudges slowly destroy the man she has always loved. Together with Ms. Carol, Natalie devises a plan to reach out to Sanford.
Sanford accepts his grandmother’s challenge to celebrate Christmas for 31 straight days, but he didn’t count on her plan involving Natalie. Can his family and friends help their Scrooge see the error of his ways, or will Natalie’s presence only make things worse?
Sanford Stone cut ties with his best friend, Natalie, in favor of the love of his life … a woman who ended up walking out on him just before Christmas. Six years later, Sanford can’t bring himself to celebrate Christ’s birth with any joy. Little does he know, his grandmother and her companions have dubbed him the Scrooge and intend to help him overcome his bitterness and find happiness again.
The only thing that has hurt Natalie Dunivan more than Sanford cutting her out of his life has been watching his long-held grudges slowly destroy the man she has always loved. Together with Ms. Carol, Natalie devises a plan to reach out to Sanford.
Sanford accepts his grandmother’s challenge to celebrate Christmas for 31 straight days, but he didn’t count on her plan involving Natalie. Can his family and friends help their Scrooge see the error of his ways, or will Natalie’s presence only make things worse?
130 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2019
99 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Heath
24 books358 followersBesides being an Indie Author, I’m a wife, mother of four, ladies’ Sunday School teacher, sweet tea drinker, history fanatic, romantic, bubbly, lover of broccoli, and a retired cake decorator who has a soft spot for Christmas trees, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
After years of watching Murder She Wrote, I’ve partnered with my best friend to write Christian cozy mysteries under the pen name Chelsea Michelle. What I’m not is a laundress (or at least not one who keeps up very well), tall, or patient in a doctor’s office.
After years of watching Murder She Wrote, I’ve partnered with my best friend to write Christian cozy mysteries under the pen name Chelsea Michelle. What I’m not is a laundress (or at least not one who keeps up very well), tall, or patient in a doctor’s office.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
December 10, 2019
There are so many "Christmas feels" in this book. Nostalgic traditions carry a good weight of this little story and is a must for a Christmas TBR!
"Scrooge" is a very bitter and hurting man, but it's not just slapped on him. He has a very understandable and relatable reason. Natalie is a great friend and you also see her growth as an individual throughout the story.
I think what stood out to me most in this was the message that packed a powerful punch. Though I haven't lived through what these characters lived through, I have seen people in the position of Sanford and the excuses they make or the lies they tell themselves (just like Sanford did). Yet Sanford didn't stay there. And the testimony and focus on God was spot-on.
There is romance, yes. I'm not a romance fan, but it was sweet and definitely chaste.
*I received this book from the author and happily provided my honest review*
"Scrooge" is a very bitter and hurting man, but it's not just slapped on him. He has a very understandable and relatable reason. Natalie is a great friend and you also see her growth as an individual throughout the story.
I think what stood out to me most in this was the message that packed a powerful punch. Though I haven't lived through what these characters lived through, I have seen people in the position of Sanford and the excuses they make or the lies they tell themselves (just like Sanford did). Yet Sanford didn't stay there. And the testimony and focus on God was spot-on.
There is romance, yes. I'm not a romance fan, but it was sweet and definitely chaste.
*I received this book from the author and happily provided my honest review*
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December 18, 2019Sweet as a stick of peppermint candy, Project Scrooge has both the delightful nostalgic feeling of the Dickens story that inspired it and yet the realism of a contemporary. I couldn’t help but root for both Natalie and Sanford to overcome the habits and thought-patterns that have led to defeat, discouragement, and bitterness. I loved the creative use of the three “ghosts”, the memorable supporting cast, and the satisfying ending.
Well-recommended for those who enjoy new twists on old classics and for those who love sweet and clean contemporary romance.
Recommended for older teens through adults.
Well-recommended for those who enjoy new twists on old classics and for those who love sweet and clean contemporary romance.
Recommended for older teens through adults.
December 10, 2019
MY THOUGHTS:
BAH HUMBUG!! Those are the first words I think of when it comes to the "Christmas Carol". "Project Scrooge" is a delightful and closer to the truth for some people than we realize. If Sanford auditioned for The Scrooge in a modern day play, he would be chosen without hesitation. Even though he's grumpy and bitter, life has a way of changing a person. His grandmother, Ms. Carol (I love it), and her elves, a group of friends come together to bring the Christmas spirit back to Sanford's life. The hitch, he agrees to do whatever they come up with. Oh boy, Ms. Carol keeps him guessing and accountable for each activity.I kept reading because I couldn't wait to see what each day's challenge was, Ms. Carol is so creative. I really enjoyed this story.
Not only do you see humor, devotion, you see forgiveness, restored relationships and a new outlook on Christmas and life. A.M. Richardson is a talented and a author whose books are great and I don't miss reading one when she releases a new book. Check her out on her social media.
Read this book and you'll definitely get into the season of Christmas!!!!
Blessings,
Karen Hadley
Rating:5*
I received this book as a gift and all opinions are my own.
BAH HUMBUG!! Those are the first words I think of when it comes to the "Christmas Carol". "Project Scrooge" is a delightful and closer to the truth for some people than we realize. If Sanford auditioned for The Scrooge in a modern day play, he would be chosen without hesitation. Even though he's grumpy and bitter, life has a way of changing a person. His grandmother, Ms. Carol (I love it), and her elves, a group of friends come together to bring the Christmas spirit back to Sanford's life. The hitch, he agrees to do whatever they come up with. Oh boy, Ms. Carol keeps him guessing and accountable for each activity.I kept reading because I couldn't wait to see what each day's challenge was, Ms. Carol is so creative. I really enjoyed this story.
Not only do you see humor, devotion, you see forgiveness, restored relationships and a new outlook on Christmas and life. A.M. Richardson is a talented and a author whose books are great and I don't miss reading one when she releases a new book. Check her out on her social media.
Read this book and you'll definitely get into the season of Christmas!!!!
Blessings,
Karen Hadley
Rating:5*
I received this book as a gift and all opinions are my own.
July 22, 2021
I am going to start this review with a post that I made on Facebook about this book. "I am reading, I know, no surprise but these statements in a Christmas story just really has me thinking, wow Anita Richardson Heath has done it again. The book is "Project Scrooge". Here are the quotes " He said I had the right to hand my anger over to the Lord.I had the right, and the ability as a Christian, to hand over my need for justice to a just and Holy God. ........" But I I learned two things" "One, I'm not capable of doling out judgement. As much as I tried to keep him in the naughty corner in my mind, .......The longer I kept him locked up and chained to his quilt, the longer I kept myself chained. "And two, I learned the meaning of the word grace. We're just as quilty. Their sins aren't any worse than ours. Our sins were still enough to see Jesus nailed to the cross. And if even our sins could require the death of a sinless God, then who are we to withhold forgiveness to a fellow sinner? It's prideful to think that her sins against you are greater than your sins against Christ." ..... The longer you put off forgiveness, the longer you pay the penalty you're forcing on others."
Some of this has been rephrased in my own words
but Anita Richardson Heath , these words are just another reason I love your books
This story has been such an inspiration to me. This book is based on "The Christmas Carol" but the author has made it her own story in a very real way that we can all relate to. Sanford has not wanted to celebrate Christmas because he is bitter, unhappy and holds a grudge. So even through this is a Christmas story I think it is a story of forgiveness and what love really is! I recommend this book and say it would be a great book to read anytime we need a reminder of what love and forgiveness really is!
The part of the story that dwells with foster care made my heart cried because this story clearly shows that those whose experienced that in their life all want to be accepted and part of a family and how important a strong family is and the love they share. Grammy made me miss my own grandma more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
Some of this has been rephrased in my own words
but Anita Richardson Heath , these words are just another reason I love your books
This story has been such an inspiration to me. This book is based on "The Christmas Carol" but the author has made it her own story in a very real way that we can all relate to. Sanford has not wanted to celebrate Christmas because he is bitter, unhappy and holds a grudge. So even through this is a Christmas story I think it is a story of forgiveness and what love really is! I recommend this book and say it would be a great book to read anytime we need a reminder of what love and forgiveness really is!
The part of the story that dwells with foster care made my heart cried because this story clearly shows that those whose experienced that in their life all want to be accepted and part of a family and how important a strong family is and the love they share. Grammy made me miss my own grandma more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
July 22, 2021
This story has been such an inspiration to me. I love how the author gently reminds us about the real meaning of Christmas. You may recognize the similarities from a very well known Christmas story but the author has made it her own story in a compassionate way. I can definitely identify with Sanford in this story. He has not wanted to celebrate Christmas because he is bitter, unhappy and holds a grudge. Isn't he just such a cheerful person to be around? Many of us hold own to something that hurt us years ago and allow that to define our attitude. Sanford has let things make him someone who can't forgive and walks around with a big chip on his shoulder.
I loved Granny and wanted to be part of the family. I love cocoa and drink it every night. Oh how fun it would be to sit around drinking cocoa with her and eating her delicious food. The author touches on the subject of foster care. The characters that experienced that in their life all want to be accepted and part of a family. The story really shows how important a strong family is and the love they share.
Sanford will get to see what it is like when he takes a journey with the help of key people in his life to past, present and future Christmas. A Christmas challenge has been given and Sanford has accepted. This begins a story that gives us a glimpse into the past where Sanford's heart was broken and I think that is the key to his bitterness. I won't tell you much more of the story so you can enjoy discovering all the surprises the author has for readers. In this beautifully written story you will find forgiveness, redemption, relationships healed and the joy of Christmas.
I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I loved Granny and wanted to be part of the family. I love cocoa and drink it every night. Oh how fun it would be to sit around drinking cocoa with her and eating her delicious food. The author touches on the subject of foster care. The characters that experienced that in their life all want to be accepted and part of a family. The story really shows how important a strong family is and the love they share.
Sanford will get to see what it is like when he takes a journey with the help of key people in his life to past, present and future Christmas. A Christmas challenge has been given and Sanford has accepted. This begins a story that gives us a glimpse into the past where Sanford's heart was broken and I think that is the key to his bitterness. I won't tell you much more of the story so you can enjoy discovering all the surprises the author has for readers. In this beautifully written story you will find forgiveness, redemption, relationships healed and the joy of Christmas.
I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
December 8, 2019
I liked the idea of a modern day Scrooge story without the ghosts. The cover of "Project Scrooge" really drew me in. I love the look on Sanford's face and how it fits the book really well. The book was well written and had a nice flow to it. I especially liked Natalie and her sacrificial love for Sanford and her desire for him to find joy again. The different tasks that Ms. Carol comes up with for Sanford to celebrate Christmas were fun. I felt like I was participating with them. I enjoyed how A.M. Heath worked in the "ghosts" of Christmas past, present, and future without actual ghosts. The quotes from A Christmas Carol and the use of staves like it used added a nice tie in with the original Charles Dickens tale. I look forward to reading more books by A.M. Heath.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
December 12, 2019
Ms. Heath has written a charming story following the premise of Dickens' Scrooge! In this delightful, modern-day rendition, Ms. Heath's characters deal with love, loss, anger, and eventually healing. I love the character development and storyline and how the characters are so relatable. It's such a wonderful picture of how things can fester within us and rob us of our happiness.
I highly recommend this story for anyone looking for a good read! This story can be read in one sitting; so, allow yourself a few extra minutes to indulge.
I highly recommend this story for anyone looking for a good read! This story can be read in one sitting; so, allow yourself a few extra minutes to indulge.
December 17, 2019
Oh my word! This was just so amazing! :) all the Christmas feels and the amazing truth abt forgiveness. It really spoke to my heart and I don’t think it’s something I will forget! Y’all take time to read this quick read! You won’t regret it!
Natalie, Sanford, Granny, Hunter, and Mia will leave you with a satisfied and happy feeling! Great job A.M. Heath! :)
Natalie, Sanford, Granny, Hunter, and Mia will leave you with a satisfied and happy feeling! Great job A.M. Heath! :)
July 11, 2023
This is such a fun, cute, Christmas story! I love the way Heath weaves Dickens into this contemporary story. A Christmas Carol serves as the context and gives a tangible depth to this story of friendship, redemption, and truth.
The family dynamics are interesting and enjoyable to read. The families depicted are unique but not unrealistic; they are by turns broken, recreated, and loyal. Of the main characters, two were orphaned at a young age, one spent most of her childhood in foster care, and one is being raised by a grandparent. While the situations which lead to arrangements like this are never pleasant, I appreciate the representation and recognize that this matters. This story is not specifically about foster care or adoption, but those are background themes and just as important as the main plot.
As a side note, I did not like the way Sanford treats Natalie for the majority of the book. I understand his reason for being mad at her, but holding a weak grudge for six years against someone who used to be your best friend? He’s such a jerk to her sometimes. His excuses are thin and his anger poorly dealt with. Although this is part of the reason that his family and friends decide to attempt to cheer him up and issue the Christmas challenge, I really did not like this aspect. Furthermore, his redemption came much to quickly for my taste.
Overall, this is a solid Christmas-cheer story. It’s fun and packed full of ways to celebrate Christmas above and beyond what is typically expected. All throughout the story, the protagonists prioritize helping others and (eventually for some) finding out the truth. They discuss the actual Christmas story, and bits of Dickens’ classic are interspersed throughout the narrative.
Honestly, Project Scrooge is an adorable story. My irritation with Sanford aside, I loved reading about these characters celebrating Christmas and doing their best to encourage Sanford and get him out of him anti-Christmas funk. I highly recommend Project Scrooge to anyone looking for a fun and meaningful story set at Christmas time!
The family dynamics are interesting and enjoyable to read. The families depicted are unique but not unrealistic; they are by turns broken, recreated, and loyal. Of the main characters, two were orphaned at a young age, one spent most of her childhood in foster care, and one is being raised by a grandparent. While the situations which lead to arrangements like this are never pleasant, I appreciate the representation and recognize that this matters. This story is not specifically about foster care or adoption, but those are background themes and just as important as the main plot.
As a side note, I did not like the way Sanford treats Natalie for the majority of the book. I understand his reason for being mad at her, but holding a weak grudge for six years against someone who used to be your best friend? He’s such a jerk to her sometimes. His excuses are thin and his anger poorly dealt with. Although this is part of the reason that his family and friends decide to attempt to cheer him up and issue the Christmas challenge, I really did not like this aspect. Furthermore, his redemption came much to quickly for my taste.
Overall, this is a solid Christmas-cheer story. It’s fun and packed full of ways to celebrate Christmas above and beyond what is typically expected. All throughout the story, the protagonists prioritize helping others and (eventually for some) finding out the truth. They discuss the actual Christmas story, and bits of Dickens’ classic are interspersed throughout the narrative.
Honestly, Project Scrooge is an adorable story. My irritation with Sanford aside, I loved reading about these characters celebrating Christmas and doing their best to encourage Sanford and get him out of him anti-Christmas funk. I highly recommend Project Scrooge to anyone looking for a fun and meaningful story set at Christmas time!
December 12, 2019
This was a wonderful way to write about The Christmas Carol. I liked that it wasn’t just a rehash of this classic story. I really loved both of these characters and the grandmother. I love the idea of doing something different each day before Christmas, though I would skip the hot chocolate because I do not care for it. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
November 9, 2019
This story really touched me, and showed me a few things that I definitely need to work on in my life. I am once again in awe of Heath's storytelling abilities, and the way that her characters feel like real people to me. I want to drop into Ms. Carol's kitchen for cocoa, and be a substitute teacher for Hunter and Mia (although I really already know a few kids just like them!). I'm already thinking that this will be an annual Christmas read for me, and I'm anxiously awaiting her next book.
December 10, 2019
My Review of Project Scrooge by A.M. Heath: Since first hearing of this novella I have been so excited to read it, knowing it would be wonderful. It was bittersweet then sweet. I have not read A Christmas Carol though I have watched once, I will say that this is much better to me since I disliked the movie. Project Scrooge is a wonderful story of healing that is perfect for Christmas.
Rating: 4 stars.
Recommendation: 16 up for romance though it is likely better for 17/18 up readers due to mentions of a cheating girlfriend, and husband.
Verse: Matthew 6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. (King James Version.)
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Rating: 4 stars.
Recommendation: 16 up for romance though it is likely better for 17/18 up readers due to mentions of a cheating girlfriend, and husband.
Verse: Matthew 6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. (King James Version.)
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
December 9, 2019
Need to reread this now that it's finished! Read it in editing stage and enjoyed it!!
December 18, 2019
This is another favorite book of mine. I am never disappointed with AM Heath’s books. I prefer full stories over novellas, but I found this one to be nicely developed. It felt like I was reading a full length book and I’m looking forward to the second book in the series. This one was a fun, clean, easy read if you are looking to take a break for little snippets of time.
December 10, 2019
Oh please! Stop this garbage! Does the guy just treat the woman like shit because of another woman and she still crawls behind him? What's up with these authors romanticizing this kind of shit? This is just ridiculous!
November 30, 2021
I really enjoyed this story what had so many Christmas feels, The Christmas Carol, and a sweet romance. More than that, I appreciated the themes of redemption, forgiveness, and helping others to see the gifts God has given them.
Read on Kindle Unlimited
Read on Kindle Unlimited
September 4, 2024
What a delightful and deep take on A Christmas Carol! A.M. Heath presents a story that is as much heartwarming as it is convicting. The themes of forgiveness and mercy resound throughout this Christmas in Garland novella, helping readers to understand what it means to truly forgive others out of obedience to Jesus. Sanford and Natalie's story exemplifies God's grace and patience with us, bringing the meaning of faithfulness to life. I enjoyed the literary references, along with the spiritual lessons sprinkled throughout. This was a book that not only entertained me but also encouraged me in my walk with God to examine my own heart.
I love that Natalie exhibits selflessness and sacrificial love when it is not easy. It's a very tender story where the grumpy/sunshine trope exists but does not overshadow the story. My favourite discovery about this book was that the author employed a spiritual content editor, which blew me away. To know that there is such care and concern over communicating spiritual content correctly makes me a fan. If readers want a quick Christmas book that is wonderfully redemptive, Project Scrooge offers a glimpse of hope in a broken heart.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
I love that Natalie exhibits selflessness and sacrificial love when it is not easy. It's a very tender story where the grumpy/sunshine trope exists but does not overshadow the story. My favourite discovery about this book was that the author employed a spiritual content editor, which blew me away. To know that there is such care and concern over communicating spiritual content correctly makes me a fan. If readers want a quick Christmas book that is wonderfully redemptive, Project Scrooge offers a glimpse of hope in a broken heart.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
January 20, 2026
4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). I've been anticipating this retelling of A Christmas Carol for a while, because I love ACC and I love retellings! 😉 I thought it was very well done, right down to the five different "staves." Granny was such fun, and I loved the mini lesson Natalie learned—but what hit me the most was the message on forgiveness. I've never heard it portrayed that way before but it was AMAZING.
Content: exes cheat/commit adultery; divorces & remarriages; a minor character is pregnant before marriage.
A Favourite Quote: “I’m not trying to get even.”
(...) “When you refuse to forgive them, in your heart you’re inflicting punishment on them.”
Content: exes cheat/commit adultery; divorces & remarriages; a minor character is pregnant before marriage.
A Favourite Quote: “I’m not trying to get even.”
(...) “When you refuse to forgive them, in your heart you’re inflicting punishment on them.”
December 18, 2019
This little story is a charming retelling of A Christmas Carol. And buried with in the pages is a beautiful truth of forgiveness and how the lack of can really impact us without realizing. But on a lighter note, there are some fun little threads and a nice dose of romance to keep the story moving and entertaining. All in all, this is a lovely version with a unique spin on Christmas "ghosts".
December 6, 2023
4.5 ⭐️Well, I’m not sure what I was expecting, but this story was exceptional❤️
Let me first say that I appreciated the first person setting in PAST tense. Lol I know I can’t be the only one who struggles reading present tense. It’s so much easier to follow in the past 😊 (*steps down from soap box*)
My heart hurt for Sanford and all the bitterness he was carrying, but Natalie was my favorite! She’s not perfect but she nearly brought me to tears a few times, especially when talking about being a lonely foster kid. Her patience and kindness with her childhood best friend was also so convicting. Loving like Jesus is something all believers are called to, but it is not an easy cross to carry.
On that note, I also loved all the spiritual content. I am going to use the word convicting again, because it really was. Sanford’s convo with his co-worker was definitely noteworthy ❤️ I appreciate how often genuine prayer and dependence on the Lord were mentioned as well.
The end was a tiny bit rushed, but I guess it’s a novella…still I was not unhappy with the ending. The nods to a Christmas Carol were also fantastic.
I really liked this book, and definitely would reread it! Those who appreciate clean Christian love stories with a biblical message will want to read this one.
Content: mentions of cheating spouses and divorce, a few kisses (but not very descriptive or excessive)
Let me first say that I appreciated the first person setting in PAST tense. Lol I know I can’t be the only one who struggles reading present tense. It’s so much easier to follow in the past 😊 (*steps down from soap box*)
My heart hurt for Sanford and all the bitterness he was carrying, but Natalie was my favorite! She’s not perfect but she nearly brought me to tears a few times, especially when talking about being a lonely foster kid. Her patience and kindness with her childhood best friend was also so convicting. Loving like Jesus is something all believers are called to, but it is not an easy cross to carry.
On that note, I also loved all the spiritual content. I am going to use the word convicting again, because it really was. Sanford’s convo with his co-worker was definitely noteworthy ❤️ I appreciate how often genuine prayer and dependence on the Lord were mentioned as well.
The end was a tiny bit rushed, but I guess it’s a novella…still I was not unhappy with the ending. The nods to a Christmas Carol were also fantastic.
I really liked this book, and definitely would reread it! Those who appreciate clean Christian love stories with a biblical message will want to read this one.
Content: mentions of cheating spouses and divorce, a few kisses (but not very descriptive or excessive)
December 27, 2019
Love this, it brought all the feels out! When I end a book in tears (happy ones), I know it's a good story. Great Christian message about the importance of forgiveness in our lives, handing over our bitterness to a Savior who can heal our hearts, and a sweet romance blossoming at the end. My favorite Christmas movie is "A Christmas Carol" and so this was the perfect modern day rendition of it.
Such a fun read!
Such a fun read!
November 29, 2020
Natalie is a physical therapist; Sanford owns a burger joint at the mall; former best friends. Their story in "Project Scrooge" has them already in a tiff with each other. Sanford is the Scrooge in this story -- and he's in a really bad mood this holiday season. Natalie sees a cry for help and decides to lead a Scrooge intervention! -- with the help of friends. The three Ghosts of Christmas are coming to visit!
What easy reading! I can just sit back and really enjoy A.M. Heath's lovely holiday tale. The POV switches back and forth between Natalie and Sanford. I just love how the descriptive imagery is bright, colorful, and cheerful.
There are a lot of characters -- which kept me on my toes. There's some drama from a marriage engagement that went south.
What I really like about this novella is how it shares a wonderful message on forgiveness!!! Everyone deserves to experience God's mercy and His grace. Excellent Christian fiction.
If you're looking for a holly jolly, Christmas-y read, "Project Scrooge" is a great choice!
Recommended for: Adults
Suitable for: 13 and up
What easy reading! I can just sit back and really enjoy A.M. Heath's lovely holiday tale. The POV switches back and forth between Natalie and Sanford. I just love how the descriptive imagery is bright, colorful, and cheerful.
There are a lot of characters -- which kept me on my toes. There's some drama from a marriage engagement that went south.
What I really like about this novella is how it shares a wonderful message on forgiveness!!! Everyone deserves to experience God's mercy and His grace. Excellent Christian fiction.
If you're looking for a holly jolly, Christmas-y read, "Project Scrooge" is a great choice!
Recommended for: Adults
Suitable for: 13 and up
June 27, 2021
This is a cute story based on the Dickens story. When Sanford can’t let go of past hurts and carries bitterness around with him, his grandmother and three cohorts scheme to get him to celebrate Christmas in his heart. A quick and fun read for the holidays.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit.
January 7, 2026
It's a pattern I should know by now, but A.M. Heath has an incredible way of taking a story down a perfectly expected road, then having her characters change their mind and flip everything on its head, and still ending up with a lovely story.
I'll be honest, Sanford's parts grated on me a little, which I don't think could be avoided, since his perspective was absolutely tinged with the bitterness he swore he wasn't still suffering from. But I very much appreciated how that was dealt with eventually, and how he finally recognized the truth of what he had become and what Natalie had always been. I also appreciated Natalie's eventual refusal to manipulate him into liking her, even in an attempt to do real good for him. All (well most) of the side characters were sweet and interesting and good additions to the cast. Very enjoyable story overall!
I'll be honest, Sanford's parts grated on me a little, which I don't think could be avoided, since his perspective was absolutely tinged with the bitterness he swore he wasn't still suffering from. But I very much appreciated how that was dealt with eventually, and how he finally recognized the truth of what he had become and what Natalie had always been. I also appreciated Natalie's eventual refusal to manipulate him into liking her, even in an attempt to do real good for him. All (well most) of the side characters were sweet and interesting and good additions to the cast. Very enjoyable story overall!
December 19, 2019
A Delightful Christmas Read
Years ago, I read A Christmas Carol for school and loved it so much that I sat down and read it aloud to my brothers over the course of the next few weeks. I don’t know how impressed they were, but I have always loved the story. So when I saw that A.M. Heath was writing a retelling of the book, I knew I had to read it. And what a lovely story it turned out to be!
This book is very similar to A Christmas Carol in some ways (shocker, right?). One of the main characters is quite a Scrooge, and most definitely can’t see it, but for a different reason than Dickens’ Scrooge. Also, being in modern times, there are of course a lot of details that are different—but the main storyline is similar and definitely very sweet.
Project Scrooge has a beautiful redemption story. I could really relate to one of the main characters’ bitterness, and seeing how that influenced their entire life was quite interesting. There’s also a lovely family atmosphere throughout many of the pages—not always pristine, but it’s there. Granny does a great job at trying to bring out the best in everyone, and help them to contribute to a better family as a whole, and that’s something I really appreciate about my own grandma—so it was fun to see that here!
In all, this is a very sweet Christmas story. If you have time to read it this season, I’d recommend it. It’s not super deep, but it does have a few elements that make you stop and think. I didn’t agree with everything in this book, but overall it was a wonderful read.
I requested a free review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
Years ago, I read A Christmas Carol for school and loved it so much that I sat down and read it aloud to my brothers over the course of the next few weeks. I don’t know how impressed they were, but I have always loved the story. So when I saw that A.M. Heath was writing a retelling of the book, I knew I had to read it. And what a lovely story it turned out to be!
This book is very similar to A Christmas Carol in some ways (shocker, right?). One of the main characters is quite a Scrooge, and most definitely can’t see it, but for a different reason than Dickens’ Scrooge. Also, being in modern times, there are of course a lot of details that are different—but the main storyline is similar and definitely very sweet.
Project Scrooge has a beautiful redemption story. I could really relate to one of the main characters’ bitterness, and seeing how that influenced their entire life was quite interesting. There’s also a lovely family atmosphere throughout many of the pages—not always pristine, but it’s there. Granny does a great job at trying to bring out the best in everyone, and help them to contribute to a better family as a whole, and that’s something I really appreciate about my own grandma—so it was fun to see that here!
In all, this is a very sweet Christmas story. If you have time to read it this season, I’d recommend it. It’s not super deep, but it does have a few elements that make you stop and think. I didn’t agree with everything in this book, but overall it was a wonderful read.
I requested a free review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
December 14, 2025
This was delightful and short. Aperfect Christmas read. <3
November 29, 2023
Natalie and Sanford grew up together and spent a lot of time at his grandmother's house. But, Six years ago, when Natalie told Sanford his fiancé was cheating on him, he thought she was lying to him. Turns out, Natalie was right and now not only is he hurt by his ex-fiancé, but he lost his relationship with Natalie. He also can't enjoy Christmas anymore and is a major Scrooge, even if he doesn't think so. Natalie has been missing Sanford, her best friend, she wants to help him get into the Christmas spirit and maybe even become friends with him again, she knows it can never be more than that even though she wishes it could. With the help of Sanford's grandmother and family they become the ghosts of past, present, and future to help this Scrooge change his ways.
Really cute story! I loved the take on A Christmas Carol. I felt really bad for Natalie and was so glad Sanford saw the error of his ways. There is a lot of Christmas fun throughout the book, and I loved watching Natalie and Sanford mend their relationship. I loved Sanford's Grandma as well. Faith elements throughout. Great Christmas Novella and definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Really cute story! I loved the take on A Christmas Carol. I felt really bad for Natalie and was so glad Sanford saw the error of his ways. There is a lot of Christmas fun throughout the book, and I loved watching Natalie and Sanford mend their relationship. I loved Sanford's Grandma as well. Faith elements throughout. Great Christmas Novella and definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
July 31, 2021
I don’t know about you, but I’m always in the mood for a good Christmas story. And this one helped to get me through a summer heat wave.
An adorable story based on Charles Dickens' familiar ghosts, I thoroughly enjoyed the shenanigans Grandma pulled, with the help of a few other people, including Natalie. The characters were well developed and incredibly likeable. I’d love to have hot chocolate and decorate for Christmas with them. Yes, even with the old Scrooge, Sanford.
A story of redemption with all the Christmas feels I need, and maybe even romance, I highly recommend it if you enjoy contemporary Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
An adorable story based on Charles Dickens' familiar ghosts, I thoroughly enjoyed the shenanigans Grandma pulled, with the help of a few other people, including Natalie. The characters were well developed and incredibly likeable. I’d love to have hot chocolate and decorate for Christmas with them. Yes, even with the old Scrooge, Sanford.
A story of redemption with all the Christmas feels I need, and maybe even romance, I highly recommend it if you enjoy contemporary Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
November 18, 2023
3 stars - Read via Kindle eBook.
I really liked the FMC but the MMC was beyond frustrating. He has some growing up to do. I don’t know that he deserved Natalie—at least without more time and working out his deep bitterness and judgment.
I’ve never really been a fan of The Christmas Carol personally. I did enjoy the other characters in this book. Especially Granny. She is smart as a whip.
I really appreciated the two quotes that I highlighted and shared.
I really liked the FMC but the MMC was beyond frustrating. He has some growing up to do. I don’t know that he deserved Natalie—at least without more time and working out his deep bitterness and judgment.
I’ve never really been a fan of The Christmas Carol personally. I did enjoy the other characters in this book. Especially Granny. She is smart as a whip.
I really appreciated the two quotes that I highlighted and shared.
November 15, 2024
Pleasantly Surprised!
I wasn't sure about this book, just based in the title. I really didn't want the whole Scrooge story again! It wasn't! This storyline was tastefully done. I enjoyed reading it.
I wasn't sure about this book, just based in the title. I really didn't want the whole Scrooge story again! It wasn't! This storyline was tastefully done. I enjoyed reading it.
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