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(Love for Christmas #2
Ms. Scrooge: A heartwarming, feel good Christmas romance
Tomorrow is Christmas Day. And in the last 48 hours I have:
1) Fired two of my trusted employees.
2) Defaced the office Christmas tree.
3) Completely blown it with the first man I’ve really liked in the last ten years.
But it’s worth it, because I’m about to earn the promotion of a lifetime. Unfortunately, my former boss and mentor, Marley Jacobs, is determined to show me the error of my ways before midnight.
Except I’m not about to let anyone get in my way—even Marley.
Especially since Marley is dead.
1) Fired two of my trusted employees.
2) Defaced the office Christmas tree.
3) Completely blown it with the first man I’ve really liked in the last ten years.
But it’s worth it, because I’m about to earn the promotion of a lifetime. Unfortunately, my former boss and mentor, Marley Jacobs, is determined to show me the error of my ways before midnight.
Except I’m not about to let anyone get in my way—even Marley.
Especially since Marley is dead.
195 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2019
59 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
December 2, 2019
Ms. Scrooge
Annabelle Costa
https://www.facebook.com/annabellecos...
Release date 12/02/2019
Publisher Rose Bud Press
Blurb :
Tomorrow is Christmas Day. And in the last 48 hours I have:
1) Fired two of my trusted employees.
2) Defaced the office Christmas tree.
3) Completely blown it with the first man I’ve really liked in the last ten years.
But it’s worth it, because I’m about to earn the promotion of a lifetime. Unfortunately, my former boss and mentor, Marley Jacobs, is determined to show me the error of my ways before midnight.
Except I’m not about to let anyone get in my way—even Marley.
Especially since Marley is dead.
My review :
When an only business minded woman filling perfectly the role of Ebenezer Scrooge collides with her past, present and future; which way will she follow ...
It has been two years since I have discovered Mrs Annabelle Costa’s work, and it was already a Christmastide themed story, since I purchase every new book she releases, even her paranormal romance.
She is one of the very few contemporary romance authors I follow and after The Grinch, this year is Scrooge, I am a sucker for any reinterpretation of A Christmas Carol, and even more when it is a romance.
After a very messy day, this was the perfect read to cheer my mood.
Ebbie is truly on the right track to become the most hated vixen in her enterprise. Firing her secretary a few days before the holidays, cancelling the office party and rejecting her sister’s invitation.
She has in appearance very few things left to be admired, but maybe she is not all dark, she has some lights in her, well hidden but still there and needing the right insensitive to let it shine.
The story is told from her point of view in the first-person. Still it does not embellish her actions and when she is a shrew, she is one.
After, she just not popped up in life this way, it was one brick at a time, she morphed to this single minded woman.
Right, I go upset at her, still she is no monster just driven the wrong way.
Hopefully Tim barging in her life is the best thing she could have hope.
Tim, is such a caring and cheerful hero, what ever Ebbie does, he tries to show her life is not black and white, that there are middle shades where they might be able to meet if only she wants.
He is the perfect man like Mrs Annabelle Costa knows to write about.
I can only urge you to discover her work, she has a very unique talent to bring her made of paper and ink characters to life with all their flaws and issues.
5 stars.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Annabelle Costa
https://www.facebook.com/annabellecos...
Release date 12/02/2019
Publisher Rose Bud Press
Blurb :
Tomorrow is Christmas Day. And in the last 48 hours I have:
1) Fired two of my trusted employees.
2) Defaced the office Christmas tree.
3) Completely blown it with the first man I’ve really liked in the last ten years.
But it’s worth it, because I’m about to earn the promotion of a lifetime. Unfortunately, my former boss and mentor, Marley Jacobs, is determined to show me the error of my ways before midnight.
Except I’m not about to let anyone get in my way—even Marley.
Especially since Marley is dead.
My review :
When an only business minded woman filling perfectly the role of Ebenezer Scrooge collides with her past, present and future; which way will she follow ...
It has been two years since I have discovered Mrs Annabelle Costa’s work, and it was already a Christmastide themed story, since I purchase every new book she releases, even her paranormal romance.
She is one of the very few contemporary romance authors I follow and after The Grinch, this year is Scrooge, I am a sucker for any reinterpretation of A Christmas Carol, and even more when it is a romance.
After a very messy day, this was the perfect read to cheer my mood.
Ebbie is truly on the right track to become the most hated vixen in her enterprise. Firing her secretary a few days before the holidays, cancelling the office party and rejecting her sister’s invitation.
She has in appearance very few things left to be admired, but maybe she is not all dark, she has some lights in her, well hidden but still there and needing the right insensitive to let it shine.
The story is told from her point of view in the first-person. Still it does not embellish her actions and when she is a shrew, she is one.
After, she just not popped up in life this way, it was one brick at a time, she morphed to this single minded woman.
Right, I go upset at her, still she is no monster just driven the wrong way.
Hopefully Tim barging in her life is the best thing she could have hope.
Tim, is such a caring and cheerful hero, what ever Ebbie does, he tries to show her life is not black and white, that there are middle shades where they might be able to meet if only she wants.
He is the perfect man like Mrs Annabelle Costa knows to write about.
I can only urge you to discover her work, she has a very unique talent to bring her made of paper and ink characters to life with all their flaws and issues.
5 stars.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
December 26, 2019
I’ve saved the best for last on my Twelve Days of Christmas books-on-review list. I’ve had such a fun time reading these holiday-themed stories throughout this holiday season of giving, family, friendship, joy and love. All twelve choices added something different to my reading pleasure. Can't ask for a better gift!
Ms. Scrooge is a clever and high-spirited parody of the timeless classic A Christmas Carol, written by British author Charles Dickens in 1843. In a present day timeline, Annabelle Costa has updated and revamped Scrooge’s story into a hilariously witty and unique spoof of the original. She’s given most of the characters a makeover turning the genders upside-down and inside-out — starting with Ebenezer Scrooge. HE IS NOW A SHE – Scrooge 2.0 or better yet, Wonder Woman.
Totally a marvelous read and I would highly recommend readers add it to their TBR lists -- any time of year or save it for next year. That's what I'm doing with last year's Mr. Grinch, along with whatever new comes from Costa.
Ms. Scrooge is a clever and high-spirited parody of the timeless classic A Christmas Carol, written by British author Charles Dickens in 1843. In a present day timeline, Annabelle Costa has updated and revamped Scrooge’s story into a hilariously witty and unique spoof of the original. She’s given most of the characters a makeover turning the genders upside-down and inside-out — starting with Ebenezer Scrooge. HE IS NOW A SHE – Scrooge 2.0 or better yet, Wonder Woman.
Totally a marvelous read and I would highly recommend readers add it to their TBR lists -- any time of year or save it for next year. That's what I'm doing with last year's Mr. Grinch, along with whatever new comes from Costa.
December 1, 2019
Jingle my bells and spike my eggnog, I’m giddy with adoration for this swoony hero! But then I adore all of Costa’s heroes, as well as the wonderful, flawed women who love them. Her heroes all have some sort of physical challenge, which she somehow simultaneously keeps in the forefront while nudging it aside as the deeper aspects of the character are revealed, and all of it serves to endear both hero and heroine even more to the reader.
Elizabeth Scribner has worked and fought and clawed her way to the height of her career at Janetta Advertising, and if she lands this next big client, she's a shoo-in for the CEO slot her mentor and boss, Marley Jacobs, vacated as a result of her untimely demise. Elizabeth hasn’t dated in years, vowing to make her career her only priority, but when the kind-of-geeky, entirely-too-hot-for-his-own-good guy sends a drink over to her in a bar after a particularly challenging day, she decides he might be the one to end her dating moratorium, but just for one night.
And that’s when things get really out of control. Tim and Elizabeth discover there's been a case of mistaken identity, Elizabeth's competition for the CEO spot ups his game in order to grab the title of CEO, and Elizabeth is being contacted by her dead boss to video chat. If you’re getting A Christmas Carol vibes, you'd be right, and Elizabeth gets glimpses of her past, present and future, twenty-first-century style.
These characters are so wonderful and their story so heartfelt and uplifting that I’m giving this book five stars, but only if one of them is the biggest, brightest, shiniest star on top of the Christmas tree! You’ll love Tim, with his nerdy brain, his crooked grin and his heart as big as the tree at Rockefeller Center. You'll admire Elizabeth for her business acumen and her commitment to her career, but you’ll fall completely in love with her as you watch her heart thaw like icicles in the sun. This fantastic holiday read will warm your heart and fill your soul, so get your copy and start reading this phenomenal, enchanting story today!
Elizabeth Scribner has worked and fought and clawed her way to the height of her career at Janetta Advertising, and if she lands this next big client, she's a shoo-in for the CEO slot her mentor and boss, Marley Jacobs, vacated as a result of her untimely demise. Elizabeth hasn’t dated in years, vowing to make her career her only priority, but when the kind-of-geeky, entirely-too-hot-for-his-own-good guy sends a drink over to her in a bar after a particularly challenging day, she decides he might be the one to end her dating moratorium, but just for one night.
And that’s when things get really out of control. Tim and Elizabeth discover there's been a case of mistaken identity, Elizabeth's competition for the CEO spot ups his game in order to grab the title of CEO, and Elizabeth is being contacted by her dead boss to video chat. If you’re getting A Christmas Carol vibes, you'd be right, and Elizabeth gets glimpses of her past, present and future, twenty-first-century style.
These characters are so wonderful and their story so heartfelt and uplifting that I’m giving this book five stars, but only if one of them is the biggest, brightest, shiniest star on top of the Christmas tree! You’ll love Tim, with his nerdy brain, his crooked grin and his heart as big as the tree at Rockefeller Center. You'll admire Elizabeth for her business acumen and her commitment to her career, but you’ll fall completely in love with her as you watch her heart thaw like icicles in the sun. This fantastic holiday read will warm your heart and fill your soul, so get your copy and start reading this phenomenal, enchanting story today!
December 8, 2019
Annabelle is a one-click author for me. For years I’ve adored her books and I look forward to her holiday novels!
I squealed in excitement when I saw this was a modern day Scrooge retelling. A Christmas Carol is my absolute favorite holiday story and I was eagerly anticipating this read.
Such a great story! I absolutely loved it!
I loved the twist having a female Scrooge. She made me as the female reader empathize with Ebbie and understand why she’d gotten to the point in her life where she was so miserable. It’s not an easy task to make your readers fall for a prickly character, but this author did it splendidly.
I loved the modern day way that each spirit visited her. So clever!
And Tim, oh Tim. Swoon. He’s not tiny. He’s handsome, sweet and sexy and has the biggest heart.
If you’re looking for a warm, entertaining holiday read that will warm your heart, I suggest that you pick this up.
I squealed in excitement when I saw this was a modern day Scrooge retelling. A Christmas Carol is my absolute favorite holiday story and I was eagerly anticipating this read.
Such a great story! I absolutely loved it!
I loved the twist having a female Scrooge. She made me as the female reader empathize with Ebbie and understand why she’d gotten to the point in her life where she was so miserable. It’s not an easy task to make your readers fall for a prickly character, but this author did it splendidly.
I loved the modern day way that each spirit visited her. So clever!
And Tim, oh Tim. Swoon. He’s not tiny. He’s handsome, sweet and sexy and has the biggest heart.
If you’re looking for a warm, entertaining holiday read that will warm your heart, I suggest that you pick this up.
January 5, 2020
Thank you, thank you, thank you for this Ms. Costa. I really really needed a good book right now. This book is different from any romance I've ever read. Yes it's a take off on A Christmas Carol—modernized and adapted to encompass a love story. And what a love story it is.
Elizabeth (Ebbie) is the heroine and after the prologue I'm like, "Aww, she's adorable. I like Wonder Woman too." Then after Chapter 2 I say to myself, "She's horrible. We need to get her laid right away!" Then after Chapter 6 I think, "She's a deplorable human being. Get out everyone, while you still can!" Then she meets Tim and I think everything is going to be okay. But not yet, we've still got a long way to go.
Tim. You can't say enough about Tim. Handsome, charming, humble, studdly, resilient and patient. OMG is he patient. Yet realistic, about himself and Elizabeth. ("I'm going to regret this aren't I.") I'm laughing and crying at the same time. Every time she boots him out I want to slap her, but he just goes along with her, understanding her limitations and painfully aware of his own reality, yet refusing to let her bring him down.
It's gladdening to watch Elizabeth take this journey of transformation back into the Ebbie she was in the prologue. Yes, Marley and The Past, Present and Future showed her why, but Tim showed her how. There's a great epilogue spanning the rest of their lives together. The first time I've ever read one like that, and it's perfect.
I know with such a feel good book the last thing you think about is technique, but that's what makes it feel so good. Ms. Costa communicates effectively and efficiently, and the story is paced well so that it doesn't run too long or too short. The dialogue is very natural and it's easy to read, but the best part is the way she humanizes these characters, and it's hard to describe but she just knows how to give them that X factor that makes you understand them and makes them lovable. Even Elizabeth, as bitchy as she is, is made sympathetic. I can feel Ebbie fighting to break through the walls that Elizabeth has built.
So all in all, it's a terrific story (except too many cats LOL). There's hardly any sex if you care about that, and it will just touch your heart. I didn't get a free copy, I'm not family or a friend or a groupie. I just love this story. I read it in KU but now I'm buying it for my Christmas collection because I know I'll want to read it again and again.
Elizabeth (Ebbie) is the heroine and after the prologue I'm like, "Aww, she's adorable. I like Wonder Woman too." Then after Chapter 2 I say to myself, "She's horrible. We need to get her laid right away!" Then after Chapter 6 I think, "She's a deplorable human being. Get out everyone, while you still can!" Then she meets Tim and I think everything is going to be okay. But not yet, we've still got a long way to go.
Tim. You can't say enough about Tim. Handsome, charming, humble, studdly, resilient and patient. OMG is he patient. Yet realistic, about himself and Elizabeth. ("I'm going to regret this aren't I.") I'm laughing and crying at the same time. Every time she boots him out I want to slap her, but he just goes along with her, understanding her limitations and painfully aware of his own reality, yet refusing to let her bring him down.
It's gladdening to watch Elizabeth take this journey of transformation back into the Ebbie she was in the prologue. Yes, Marley and The Past, Present and Future showed her why, but Tim showed her how. There's a great epilogue spanning the rest of their lives together. The first time I've ever read one like that, and it's perfect.
I know with such a feel good book the last thing you think about is technique, but that's what makes it feel so good. Ms. Costa communicates effectively and efficiently, and the story is paced well so that it doesn't run too long or too short. The dialogue is very natural and it's easy to read, but the best part is the way she humanizes these characters, and it's hard to describe but she just knows how to give them that X factor that makes you understand them and makes them lovable. Even Elizabeth, as bitchy as she is, is made sympathetic. I can feel Ebbie fighting to break through the walls that Elizabeth has built.
So all in all, it's a terrific story (except too many cats LOL). There's hardly any sex if you care about that, and it will just touch your heart. I didn't get a free copy, I'm not family or a friend or a groupie. I just love this story. I read it in KU but now I'm buying it for my Christmas collection because I know I'll want to read it again and again.
December 21, 2019
My first reaction was the character Ebbie was worse than Ebenzer scrooge. I can see why though. no one took her seriously so when she got promoted it all changed. Then i thought it was like a Christmas carol because the story lines were similar. Honestly i had different reactions but they were all good and all in all it was a really good book. It can help a person in a Christmas mood and it will show you that you shouldn't judge a person by how they look because their personality will surprise you :)
i received this as an advanced copy from Hidden gems i am sorry it took me so long to read this book but I am very glad i did and will more likely read it again and recommend it to anyone. Five stars all around.
i received this as an advanced copy from Hidden gems i am sorry it took me so long to read this book but I am very glad i did and will more likely read it again and recommend it to anyone. Five stars all around.
December 7, 2019
Scrooge reincarnated!
We only thought he was gone, but he has changed sexes and is now known as Elizabeth. Ms. Costa takes you through the story making you want to knock Ebbie upside the head multitudinous times. Ebbie (Female Ebenezer, clever!) not only fires two people right before Christmas, but also tosses out her “hook up” from a bar as soon as she realizes he is her freshly fired secretary’s son. Will she take stock of her life with the help of the ghosts or will she continue on her current path?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
We only thought he was gone, but he has changed sexes and is now known as Elizabeth. Ms. Costa takes you through the story making you want to knock Ebbie upside the head multitudinous times. Ebbie (Female Ebenezer, clever!) not only fires two people right before Christmas, but also tosses out her “hook up” from a bar as soon as she realizes he is her freshly fired secretary’s son. Will she take stock of her life with the help of the ghosts or will she continue on her current path?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
December 2, 2019
An Annabelle Costa Christmas Carol
Old (or not so old) Marley is still dead, Tiny Tim is not so tiny, and Ebenezer underwent a gender change becoming Ebbie; Annabelle Costa’s take on A Christmas Carol is heartwarming and full of laughs (and some tears), just like all her books.
Absolutely recommend it!
Old (or not so old) Marley is still dead, Tiny Tim is not so tiny, and Ebenezer underwent a gender change becoming Ebbie; Annabelle Costa’s take on A Christmas Carol is heartwarming and full of laughs (and some tears), just like all her books.
Absolutely recommend it!
December 8, 2019
A great updated take on an old classic. Elizabeth is a fabulous Scrooge! Not much to like about her. The author does a great job of making her a villain. But, as with the original story, things take a turn. The fabulous story turns into a beautiful and sexy romance with lots of angst. I couldn't put this book down!!!
December 4, 2019
Wonderful!
Great rendition of Scrooge with Ms Costa’s special spin we all adore. Characters are wonderful, funny and infuriating. I wanted to clobber Ebbie many times. Thanks for the great Christmas story. I’m sure I’ll read it every year( probably more)
Great rendition of Scrooge with Ms Costa’s special spin we all adore. Characters are wonderful, funny and infuriating. I wanted to clobber Ebbie many times. Thanks for the great Christmas story. I’m sure I’ll read it every year( probably more)
January 14, 2020
Enjoyable read!
I read this post-Christmas and really enjoyed it :) A take off of Christmas Carol, Annabelle Costa does a fantastic job of modernizing it and making a female Scrooge heroine. I really enjoyed the romance element of it and the sweet kitties. There is some strong language and sexual references. Very enjoyable and I highly recommend!
I read this post-Christmas and really enjoyed it :) A take off of Christmas Carol, Annabelle Costa does a fantastic job of modernizing it and making a female Scrooge heroine. I really enjoyed the romance element of it and the sweet kitties. There is some strong language and sexual references. Very enjoyable and I highly recommend!
December 4, 2019
Really cute
I really enjoyed it, everything from dancing to the epilogue.
Nice work! Can’t wait for your next book!
❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
I really enjoyed it, everything from dancing to the epilogue.
Nice work! Can’t wait for your next book!
❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
December 8, 2019
Another win
I can't stop reading Costas books. Very clever and enjoyable. Can't wait to read more from this amazing author. Well written
I can't stop reading Costas books. Very clever and enjoyable. Can't wait to read more from this amazing author. Well written
December 6, 2019
Never disappointed
I love her books, I have read them all! Fun, easy read. I’m always looking forward to the next one.
I love her books, I have read them all! Fun, easy read. I’m always looking forward to the next one.
December 12, 2019
Excellent Gender Switch “A Christmas Carol”
I will admit that I am a fan of the retelling of classic Christmas stories. I've read two that were contemporary spins on A Christmas Carol this week, both very good in completely different ways. I'm hard-pressed to say which I liked better. But luckily, I don't have to choose. I adored this one. I think I read a few other books by this author, but this one was simply so well done. It is told strictly from the perspective of the heroine. The author did an excellent job showing us how she became who she is and what she is like now. She really does have to grow and change in this book. Watching her awkward fits and starts kept me up reading. I love it when a book does that. She really is a piece of work when the book begins and through much of the beginning. The way of introducing scenes of the past, present, and future was done in a very contemporary way, which I found satisfying. Most characters in this book were gender switched. The Scrooge character is female as well as Marley and Bob Cratchit. Tiny Tim is definitely not so tiny, but he definitely is dealing with physical difficulties like the original Tiny Tim. But in this book, Tiny Tim is all grown up and quite this swoon-worthy hero. It definitely takes a special man, as well as glimpses of her life from the ghosts, to thaw the witchy ice queen. This book definitely goes into more depth than some others I have read. If you like retellings of classic Christmas stories like I do, with a healthy dose of romance and character growth, you may very well enjoy this story.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
I will admit that I am a fan of the retelling of classic Christmas stories. I've read two that were contemporary spins on A Christmas Carol this week, both very good in completely different ways. I'm hard-pressed to say which I liked better. But luckily, I don't have to choose. I adored this one. I think I read a few other books by this author, but this one was simply so well done. It is told strictly from the perspective of the heroine. The author did an excellent job showing us how she became who she is and what she is like now. She really does have to grow and change in this book. Watching her awkward fits and starts kept me up reading. I love it when a book does that. She really is a piece of work when the book begins and through much of the beginning. The way of introducing scenes of the past, present, and future was done in a very contemporary way, which I found satisfying. Most characters in this book were gender switched. The Scrooge character is female as well as Marley and Bob Cratchit. Tiny Tim is definitely not so tiny, but he definitely is dealing with physical difficulties like the original Tiny Tim. But in this book, Tiny Tim is all grown up and quite this swoon-worthy hero. It definitely takes a special man, as well as glimpses of her life from the ghosts, to thaw the witchy ice queen. This book definitely goes into more depth than some others I have read. If you like retellings of classic Christmas stories like I do, with a healthy dose of romance and character growth, you may very well enjoy this story.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
March 13, 2025
We’ve all had bad days at work, but Elizabeth "Ebbie" Scribner is really out here getting haunted by her dead boss while gunning for CEO — and honestly? Same, girl.
In Ms. Scrooge, Annabelle Costa gives us a modern-day, corporate Christmas Carol with all the messy chaos you didn’t know you needed. Ebbie is a career-obsessed, emotionally armored woman who’s laser-focused on climbing that corporate ladder — until Marley Jacobs (her boss from beyond the grave) shows up on her laptop to let her know she’s due for a reality check. Add in a rival gunning for her job and you’ve got the holiday stress dream no one asked for.
Oh, and then there’s Tim. Because what’s a Christmas crisis without a one-night stand gone wrong? Ebbie thinks she’s getting a fun night out with a hot nerd who sends her a drink... but surprise! Tim’s more connected to her life than she realizes, and now she’s stuck dealing with a man who sees right through her icy exterior.
And listen, this isn’t some TV movie "she's cold but secretly soft" nonsense. Ebbie is sharp, a little ruthless, and actually fighting her ghosts (literal and metaphorical). Watching her get dragged through her own past, present, and future mistakes is hilarious and brutal, but watching her slowly figure out that maybe being human isn’t a weakness? That's where Costa nails it.
Ms. Scrooge is a sharp, fast, and funny 4 out of 5 stars, perfect if you want your holiday redemption arcs with a side of career drama, ghosts who don’t care about your calendar, and a man who’s way too sweet for a woman like Ebbie — but refuses to leave her alone anyway. Basically, if you’ve ever wanted Scrooge to be a woman who’s trying to have it all while fending off ghosts on Slack, this is the book for you.
In Ms. Scrooge, Annabelle Costa gives us a modern-day, corporate Christmas Carol with all the messy chaos you didn’t know you needed. Ebbie is a career-obsessed, emotionally armored woman who’s laser-focused on climbing that corporate ladder — until Marley Jacobs (her boss from beyond the grave) shows up on her laptop to let her know she’s due for a reality check. Add in a rival gunning for her job and you’ve got the holiday stress dream no one asked for.
Oh, and then there’s Tim. Because what’s a Christmas crisis without a one-night stand gone wrong? Ebbie thinks she’s getting a fun night out with a hot nerd who sends her a drink... but surprise! Tim’s more connected to her life than she realizes, and now she’s stuck dealing with a man who sees right through her icy exterior.
And listen, this isn’t some TV movie "she's cold but secretly soft" nonsense. Ebbie is sharp, a little ruthless, and actually fighting her ghosts (literal and metaphorical). Watching her get dragged through her own past, present, and future mistakes is hilarious and brutal, but watching her slowly figure out that maybe being human isn’t a weakness? That's where Costa nails it.
Ms. Scrooge is a sharp, fast, and funny 4 out of 5 stars, perfect if you want your holiday redemption arcs with a side of career drama, ghosts who don’t care about your calendar, and a man who’s way too sweet for a woman like Ebbie — but refuses to leave her alone anyway. Basically, if you’ve ever wanted Scrooge to be a woman who’s trying to have it all while fending off ghosts on Slack, this is the book for you.
December 23, 2021
It has taken a decade but Elizabeth Scribner has clawed her way up the corporate ladder under the tutelage of the career-driven Marley Jacobs, former VP and later CEO of Janetta Advertising.
Some weeks ago Marley dropped dead and Elizabeth has her sights set on the CEO position, nothing and no-one is going to stand in her way, particular her rival for the job Richard Hall.
But, somewhere along the way Elizabeth has lost her humanity and her patience for anyone under-performing. She's fast becoming a Marley clone and, as Richard puts it:- "She was ... a high-strung bitch. Everybody thought so. Well, everybody but you."
Elizabeth cancels the office Christmas party, will have the office Christmas tree down on December 26th and has a few firings scheduled once the festive season is over. To hell with that, someone is getting the boot right now and Christmas has been cancelled - the staff can have Christmas Eve night with their families.
It's time for Elizabeth's life to change - starting with a fully grown Tim on crutches - and Marley has it all planned - past, present and future.
It's a modern re-working of "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens and, though occasionally clunky and occasionally in need of a tighter edit, is a very pleasant festive read.
I did particularly like that Elizabeth, in the middle of the Marley experience, doesn't turn soppy and sentimental - it's Christmas Eve someone needs a quick firing!
One peculiarity of the book is that while Elizabeth is a complete and utter bitch many of those around her actually seem to like/respect her, including those she has fired.
"Ms. Scrooge" does get seriously sappy toward the end but, given the season that's in it, only the Grinch would find fault!
The very end, though slightly rushed, is completely satisfying.
3.5 Stars.
Some weeks ago Marley dropped dead and Elizabeth has her sights set on the CEO position, nothing and no-one is going to stand in her way, particular her rival for the job Richard Hall.
But, somewhere along the way Elizabeth has lost her humanity and her patience for anyone under-performing. She's fast becoming a Marley clone and, as Richard puts it:- "She was ... a high-strung bitch. Everybody thought so. Well, everybody but you."
Elizabeth cancels the office Christmas party, will have the office Christmas tree down on December 26th and has a few firings scheduled once the festive season is over. To hell with that, someone is getting the boot right now and Christmas has been cancelled - the staff can have Christmas Eve night with their families.
It's time for Elizabeth's life to change - starting with a fully grown Tim on crutches - and Marley has it all planned - past, present and future.
It's a modern re-working of "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens and, though occasionally clunky and occasionally in need of a tighter edit, is a very pleasant festive read.
I did particularly like that Elizabeth, in the middle of the Marley experience, doesn't turn soppy and sentimental - it's Christmas Eve someone needs a quick firing!
One peculiarity of the book is that while Elizabeth is a complete and utter bitch many of those around her actually seem to like/respect her, including those she has fired.
"Ms. Scrooge" does get seriously sappy toward the end but, given the season that's in it, only the Grinch would find fault!
The very end, though slightly rushed, is completely satisfying.
3.5 Stars.
December 3, 2019
I truly adore the writing style of this author which is no secret. And - because I decided I would spend a whole month now reading nothing but Xmas novels - the release of this came just about right.
Thing is only that the "Scrooge" theme itself is a hit and miss for me - paired with the fact that it would obviously be the female in the story - well - if it had been any other author I will be honest - I would not have picked the book.
But Ms. Costa did not disappoint - she delivered a heartwarming plot and even managed to give the story a different twist with the female being the Scrooge for a change as well as adding her unique personal ingredients to the mix.
It is not her fault that for me everything should always center around the male in the story when it comes to certain aspects of the plot - so I am sure that there will be a lot of people out there loving this different approach to this well-known theme.
I believe that this story is a perfect choice for you if you are planning to read some heartwarming stories before the holidays ...
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December 3, 2019
🎁Really fun modernization of a Dickens classic; Tim's all grown up😉
😍 I loved this romantic, modern version of Dickens' A Christmas Carol set in the bustling world of NYC advertising, with a career-driven woman and her mentor in the Scrooge and Marley roles. Tim's not so tiny, though he still deals with disability surrounded by his large, close-knit family. I loved the creative, modern spin on how dead Marley first makes contact with heroine Ebbie and, in this version, Ebbie's lack of sympathy and patience for her employees is somewhat justified. She's driven more by a mania for perfection and success in a male dominated world than by the original Scrooge's avarice.
Some of the best scenes for me related to her visits to the past and reconnecting with her girlhood AND, of course, the romantic bits. The romance is not too explicit but very satisfying emotionally. There's a certified villain and humor too, and even some cat love for the animal lover. The epilogue really covers all the bases and leaves no major character out, making this a true standalone story.
😊 I definitely recommend this light and easy to read holiday romance with a touch of redemptive magic.👍👍
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
😍 I loved this romantic, modern version of Dickens' A Christmas Carol set in the bustling world of NYC advertising, with a career-driven woman and her mentor in the Scrooge and Marley roles. Tim's not so tiny, though he still deals with disability surrounded by his large, close-knit family. I loved the creative, modern spin on how dead Marley first makes contact with heroine Ebbie and, in this version, Ebbie's lack of sympathy and patience for her employees is somewhat justified. She's driven more by a mania for perfection and success in a male dominated world than by the original Scrooge's avarice.
Some of the best scenes for me related to her visits to the past and reconnecting with her girlhood AND, of course, the romantic bits. The romance is not too explicit but very satisfying emotionally. There's a certified villain and humor too, and even some cat love for the animal lover. The epilogue really covers all the bases and leaves no major character out, making this a true standalone story.
😊 I definitely recommend this light and easy to read holiday romance with a touch of redemptive magic.👍👍
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
December 3, 2019
This was a great modern retelling of Dicken's Christmas Carol. The characters were on point and the story was well developed, true to the original and touching. Elizabeth (Ebbie) is a driven workaholic being considered for the CEO position of Jannetta Advertising. Her mentor Marley recently past away leaving the position open. Elizabeth's opponent for the job is Richard, a smary, charming ex-hook up. She fires two people days before Christmas. Tim, the son of her ex secretary, and Ebbie meet at a local bar and hook up. The next morning each realizes who the other is and she kicks him out. They keep connecting throughout her visits with the ghosts. After she has her epiphany, she makes up with Tim, gets the job and has a HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2020
This is a modern version of the classic Christmas Carol with a woman playing the role of Scrooge. It is a heartwarming tale of a woman named Elizabeth who is so focused on her career that she forgets family, friends and co-workers. She has no time for anyone even love. When her mentor Marley dies she is up for a promotion as CEO at her company and she needs to prove that she is deserving of this promotion. Marley comes to her as a ghost and tries to show Elizabeth the error of her ways and not to live her life as she did. Elizabeth meets a fabulous guy in a chance meeting and discovers she can have it all if she wants it. Fun twist on an old classic using modern technology. I received an ARC and I voluntarily reviewed this book.
December 11, 2019
Marley takes Elizabeth under her wing, and teacher her how to be cutthroat in order to get ahead. Elizabeth's career is her absolute priority - not dating, marriage, kids or even a social life. But Marley dies, and Elizabeth is on her own to navigate her way to the top. She does a spectacular job, and everyone hates her. This is a nice modern retelling of A Christmas Carol. The characters are wonderful, and it's an enjoyable book to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 29, 2019
Just when I thought I was familiar with every version of " A Christmas Carol", what should I discover but the Annabelle Costa variation which was truly a pleasure to read ( stayed up til almost 4 a.m. because I couldn't put it down until the end!) And what a wonderful tale of redemption with a happily ever after you won't soon forget!
This should be required Christmas reading! Well done, Ms Costa!
This should be required Christmas reading! Well done, Ms Costa!
December 15, 2019
I Loved Ms. Scrooge!
I really enjoyed reading this adaptation of Scrooge! I liked the now to the movie that it was set in the corporate world with a female perspective. Also how the characters names were close to those in a Christmas Carol. The interaction between the main characters was really well done and I enjoyed the twist of Tim's character. A fun read for the season.
I really enjoyed reading this adaptation of Scrooge! I liked the now to the movie that it was set in the corporate world with a female perspective. Also how the characters names were close to those in a Christmas Carol. The interaction between the main characters was really well done and I enjoyed the twist of Tim's character. A fun read for the season.
December 15, 2019
I loved this story of Ebbie. A sort of recreation of the original Scrooge. Her realization of what her life needed to be compared to what it was and the way it was heading was so good. Tim was the icing on the cake. I loved the characters in the story! Great retelling
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2020
Excellent read
This book is about work, love and passion. It is about learning to live life even with a high stress, high paying job. You can make changes in your life to live it to the fullest or work hard and not be loved for what you do.
This book is about work, love and passion. It is about learning to live life even with a high stress, high paying job. You can make changes in your life to live it to the fullest or work hard and not be loved for what you do.
January 28, 2020
This was a great story. I thought the story was very well written and flowed well. The story kept me glued to the pages to see how everything would turn out. I loved the characters and had this read in one sitting.
December 20, 2020
I really enjoyed this! Sometimes we all need a little eye opener to see what's really important in life and that's exactly what Ebbie got. I love how the character from scrooge are portrayed in this book and that little Timmy found love. Sweet Christmas book!
December 31, 2020
My Heart!
I absolutely LOVE Annabelle Costa’s writing style!
I am still feeling the fuzzy, warm, slightly teary, emotions from this story. Is it a retelling of A Christmas Carol? Yes. But it is so very much more!
Annabelle has the precision of words to pull off a unique and creative take on the classic. But I promise you will FEEL this story, deep in your heart!
I absolutely LOVE Annabelle Costa’s writing style!
I am still feeling the fuzzy, warm, slightly teary, emotions from this story. Is it a retelling of A Christmas Carol? Yes. But it is so very much more!
Annabelle has the precision of words to pull off a unique and creative take on the classic. But I promise you will FEEL this story, deep in your heart!
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