The Hope of Christmas Past

A Dickens of a Christmas #1

by L.G. Rollins

With so much at stake this Christmas Season, love will only get in the way.


Belle Young has waited three years for Lord Wilkins to return from his travels abroad—and a full seven years since he first promised to marry her and carry her away from her aunt’s oppressive home. What better time of year for their reunion than Christmas? Belle is certain Lord Wilkins means to make good on his word—that is, until she’s introduced to the vibrant young woman who followed him home from America, at his invitation. Shocked and confused, Belle is determined to remind Lord Wilkins of his promise to her. After all, she needs this marriage. It’s either that or spend the rest of her life as a nobody, an unwanted ward of her aunt, alone and wholly unloved.


Mr. James Radcliff has never minded his lack of title or high standing among society. He is quite content with is status as gentleman and cousin to the exuberant Lord Wilkins. But then he learns that his cousin is not actually the son of the late earl; if the information ever got out, James would find himself earl and his cousin would be thrust from society. It may not be what most men would do, but James is determined to find the only proof of his cousin’s illegitimacy—and destroy it.


The Hope of Christmas Past is the first in A Dickens of a Christmas series. It is a clean and wholesome Regency Christmas romance; a story of goodness amidst adversity, holiday cheer, and, hope. Each book in this series is a stand-alone and can be read apart or enjoyed in proper order.



Book 1: The Hope of Christmas Past
Book 2: The Joy of Christmas Present
Book 3: The Peace of Christmas Yet to Come

Genres: Christmas, Historical Fiction, Romance, Regency, Historical Romance, Historical, Fiction

297 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2021

About the author

For L. G. Rollins, conversations regarding Schrodinger’s cat, the effects of scientific advancements on politics, and whether Infinity is better categorized as a number or an idea are all quite commonplace. To be short, she is an unapologetic nerd. Mix in her love of whimsy and the unusual, and you get Steam and Shadow, a steampunk series of science, sweet romance, and unexpected adventures.

To learn more about L. G. Rollins, her books, and get a FREE NOVELLA visit LGRollins.com.

Reviews

[HR-ML · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clean.

This had some characters named Scrooge & Cratchit
etc borrowing from Dickens. 3.5 stars, rounded up.

Belle had a gloomy life under the thumb of her critical
aunt and cousin who called her plain, ordinary etc.
These 2 abandoned her every Christmas & she was not
included in their plans. Belle traditionally spent this
time of year w/ Lady Wilkins & family. Childhood friend,
"Fizzi" Wilkins (later an earl), promised to rescue her
from aunty. Which she took to mean he'd wed her.
He'd gone to America x 3 yrs & seldom wrote her.
He returned to England with a charming (but chatty)
American lady, her parents etc.

The earl's cousin, James, was lighthearted & kind and a
man of good will. Long story short, he knew of a secret
which would destroy the Wilkins family, if this news
traveled. He sought an old letter confirming the secret.

I did not see the attraction of Fizzi. Slowly Belle & James
grew closer. I enjoyed this imperfect couple. James in his
words and deeds showed his solid goodness. Refreshing for
a change to have a H other than a rogue, handsy kisser or
manipulator.

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was surprised at how fun this book is to read. It is loosely based on a classic, and they can go either way. I loved how she added characters from "A Christmas Carol" but made this story her own.

The message that I took out from this story is that happiness doesn't always come where or when we expect it to. Belle had her hopes pinned on Fezzi to change her life and bring her out of an awful situation. An encounter with Mr. Scrooge helped her to rethink her hopes and dreams and realize that they had changed. Love became her priority.

This was a fun book to read and I look forward to reading books about the present and the future.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

Beautiful story! Really enjoyed it. I also loved how there was a Mr Scrooge in the story.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the book by Charles Dickens, The Christmas Carol, and own all of the productions made to date from his writing. I feared this would be a silly take on the book, but gave it a try. I enjoyed it immensely. Belle who is an untitled miss, had once received a promise from an Earl, before leaving England for America. He returns home at last, but not alone, after she waits in an unloved, and at times cruel life. He arrives with a Miss Smith, and her family. His cousin James has returned early to help his cousin remain the Earl. James knows there might be proof that would cause his Aunt, and his cousin grief.. Belle offers to help, and that's all I will tell you.. Mr.Cratchit, Scrooge, and Jacob Marley have a place in the story. The need of titles, and wealth to be worthy was very sought after in England during that time period. It was as important for a young Miss to find a good marriage, and love was not the main concern. It was more like brokering a good business deal. Some times ladies chose love over titles, and married beneath their station, yet were no longer accepted into their social circles, or parties. It had a few kisses, but nothing sexual in nature. It also had a faith based bend to the story, that not only touches the four main characters, but Mr. Scrooge as well. It was an excellent read for this time of year, and especially during the trying times we live in. Money, and power, and greed seems to over power the need for God, and kindness, and common decency. I also felt Jane Austen speaking in some of the instances. She too, refused to marry for money, in most of her stories, and showed how the love of money only caused ruin in most instances. The way the writer drew the story around original works from great authors, and added God's forgiveness, and love that cost mortal man nothing ,but faith was all entwined. I will definitely be reading the next one of this series. I happily gave it 5 stars.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is something about the way author L.G. Rollins writes her stories that has always seems to pull me in; The Hope of Christmas Past was one such story. I really enjoyed this sweet Regency romance that connects into the world of A Christmas Carol with Mr. Scrooge as a secondary character, but is very much its own thing. It was super fun to look for connections to the "ghost of Christmas past" in this story and I loved the author's note at the end. Belle and James were adorable. I loved the dual POV. What was really enjoyable with this story too was it didn't feel predictable. In fact, I looked at how many pages I had left and thought to myself, "how is this going to end?". Happily, I'll at least say that much. :)
I definitely enjoyed this book, read it in one sitting, and look forward to the next book in the series. It was very original the way the author created the story and I am excited for what comes next and to know that Scrooge will be present and grow as the series continues on.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Loraine Nunley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Given Belle’s home life, I empathized with her setting her hopes on Lord Wilkins long ago promise to rescue her. When she wasn’t worrying about how to get him to keep that promise, she was an enjoyable person. James was also very intriguing as a man of integrity. I really enjoyed the way the author incorporated aspects of the Charles Dickens Christmas Carol into this story. In the end, it was a sweet romance with a happy ending and a fun take on a classic story.

[Brontesruleromance · Rating 2 out of 5]

I love "A Christmas Carol" by Dickens, and I reread it every December, so that made this book (loosely based on its themes) a no-brainer. Unfortunately, it was religious HR (I didn't know that when I started) so I DNF at 85%.

[Betty Strohecker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a charming Christmas tale set in regency England. First in a set of books labeled "A Dickens of a Christmas," The Hope of Christmas Past features Belle Young as a young woman who has based her whole future on a promise made to her in the past. This is Belle's journey to an awakening that helps her realize what is truly important in life.

Rollins uses some characters and events from Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" to help craft her story, including an interesting appearance by Mr. Scrooge. All books are stand alones in this series. Very enjoyable.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a cleaver adaptation of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dikens. While I caught several similarities in the book I must admit it was the notes section from the author that taught me much from the original that I was never aware of. It was enlightening. It helped me also appreciate the attitude of Belle. While I liked Belle I was also not too pleased with her and her choices. I also was disappointed in Fezzi who was a bit clueless. While I can say Fezzi was a gentlemen James and his character outshone them all. He may have not been the heir to the earldom but he was by far the better choice in companions. And while it saddens me that James didn’t get what was rightfully his and I somewhat hoped the truth would come out it could not have been done by James. He was too noble for that. It would have also brought great sadness to all involved. Yet, as it stands seems also so unjust. I look forward to the other two stories in this trilogy.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the author, for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

There is just something about the way this author’s writing draws me in and makes me have all the feelings. I love reading her books and I am lucky that I have the privilege of being on her ARC team.

From the very beginning of this story, I was sucked in and I found it very hard to put down. This story is not a retelling of a Christmas Carol but uses key elements from the original story to build the basis of this story.

My absolute favorite character in this story is James. He is beyond your typical good guy. He is willing to put those he cares about before himself. James comes into information that could give him the title of Earl and he would never have to worry about money again. However, he es not want any harm to come to his cousin in any way and does everything in his power to make sure that any proof is destroyed. He is just a wonderful character and I wanted everything to work out for him.

Fezzi is such a character that even though his actions make you want to not like him there is just something in the way that he is written and makes it just so you can’t.

Belle’s character grows so much in this story. Belle has so much to lose if she does not hold Fezzi to his promise. As the story progresses she grows so much. So as not to spoil this story I am just going to say that she learns what the phrase “Always a Lady” really means in the end.

I loved this story so much and I will suggest this for anyone who loves a good Regency romance.

[Desiree · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought the interactions between the h & James were sweet & endearing. L.G. Rollins did very well in being able to show not tell the reader how much James cared for the h. I could feel the plight of the h & able to see her perspective. There was good imagery and I got immeresed in the story. The H was just the best. The 1st kiss was written so well. I loved it! I thought the story was a great homage to a Christmas Carol & really caught the spirit of the book. This was a wonderul Christmas story. The perfect amount of romance, Christmas charm, encouraging and uplifting themes for the season. I'm really looking forward to the rest in the series. I do wonder what will become of the h's cousin.

[Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️
Wow! This one has me feeling all warm and fuzzy and ready for Christmas! Everything about this book was so wonderful. I loved the characters, I loved how involved Christmas was, but I didn’t find it over the top. I loved the growth of the individual characters and their relationships! It was all so well done.

Belle and James were incredible. They fit together so perfectly and I couldn’t have been happier about it! James is dreamy and perfect, and everything you want in a man (but without a title or wealth). And I LOVE THAT and it doesn’t stop him from chasing the woman of his dreams.

I felt like the progression of their relationship felt very real to me, and I didn’t doubt the possibility of it truly happening. Everyone made sacrifices out of love and hope, and their actions were realistic.

I thought the “Christmas Carol” connections were fun! It was cute to see things connected, but creative and able to form a new story. In that aspect, I feel like there were so many GOOD life lessons taught in this book about love, hope, freedom and worth. I appreciated those nuggets of wisdom and look forward to that in her next books!! Will definitely continue reading them!

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Promises made, promises broken.

A touching story of how a young woman, Belle, overcomes her pain and humiliation after the rejection of a man for whom she has waited 3 years, and learns to love again. She learns the lesson: “When we say that another person has the power to make us happy or unhappy, we give up all responsibility for our own happiness.”
The story is well-paced, and the storyline convincing. The characters are true-to-life, although a touch of humor is strewn about by the use of Dicken’s character Scrooge! All this is appropriately wrapped around Yuletide. I enjoyed this story, which is sweet and clean and appropriate for all ages. And yes, our heroine does have her HEA, but just not with the man she had expected!
I received a free copy of this book. My review is voluntary and reflects my own opinion.

[Marilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely delightful read! I adore A Christmas Carol by Dickens and the author has beautifully captured the essence of the book, most especially the lessons Scrooge learns from the ghost of Christmas past. This was a beautiful, sweet romance about knowing your true worth and having the courage to follow your heart. This story is sure to make even Scrooge himself believe in the magic of Christmas.


I received a complimentary copy of this book but it in no way affected my review.

[Patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating of 2.5. The trouble with the book was the plot, not the writing.

The inclusion of Scrooge seemed extraneous--like the author had to try too hard to include this character. Perhaps the story should have been about bookkeeping matters rather than referring to legal matters such as inheritance.

I thought it was very terrible that James told Scrooge about the letter and Fezzi's illegitimacy. It felt very superfluous--and wrong. Surely Bob Cratchit overheard. Why let out a secret? I know he wanted information about Fezzi's potential father but it just felt contrived. I also felt it was totally bizarre to turn to Scrooge for information about the man's whereabouts. There needed to be some kind of backstory set down for James to think he would succeed at getting the information. I know we're used to confidentiality rules today but surely a miser like Scrooge would be as miserly about information as he would be about money.

I felt it was odd to have the quest for the letter--Belle and James searching the house for the letter for a good part of the book. Better to stumble across it innocently and struggle with the implications so we the audience weren't sure how James would come down on the matter--but we did know the whole time. It created no tension and seemed like a strange way to go about things.

I felt like it was strange for James to take the letter to Scrooge. I felt that as soon as the letter was found, James should have destroyed it so he didn't keep it around for one minute. I felt like it was strange to bury the letter. For Pete's sake, just burn it.

I felt like it was odd that a man as honorable as James would ask to meet Belle (betrothed to his cousin and best friend) in the middle of the night--regardless of his good intentions about the letter. It was not consistent with his character at all--and the whole segment was weird.

I felt like it was odd at the end for Belle to suddenly feel so empowered--of course one would hope it would happen but it felt odd. I could imagine her feeling sad that James was not there, happy she chose the right thing--or at least bittersweet feelings about it--but not suddenly becoming Wonder Woman standing up to her aunt and cousin, dispensing all sorts of advice. It was like she was suddenly someone else rather than a character that had grown during the story. I mean she was conflicted and not in touch with her real feelings for nearly 300 pages--why do a complete about-face right at the end? It just felt off to me.

I felt it was odd for Belle to take Fezzi's face in her hands at the point she is turning him down--it didn't seem like something she would do. It required a level of confidence that I can't believe occurred during the course of the story.

I know it sounds like I didn't like the book. It was okay. I did like the characters and did care about them. The writing itself was nice. As I said, the plot details just troubled me throughout. I am going to give book two in the series a try. I have read and liked this author's books.

[Patti · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a clever mix of some characters from Dickens’ ‘Christmas Carol’ intertwined with Regency Christmas romance. I think author L.G. Rollins did a good job creating a charming story. I love a stack of Christmas stories, novels and shorts, to give me a warm feeling by a toasty fire and Christmas tree. This one was fun overall!

Belle has patiently waited for the return of a young man that left her with the assumed promise of marriage. It has been three long years since Lord Wilkins, or Fezzi as he is more well known, has been back to England after an extended stay in America. Belle remembers the promise well, but Fezzi, it turns out hopes she has forgotten that ancient promise.

Poor Belle is shocked when Fezzi returns with a young American lady on his arm. He pays more attention to her and it is clear there are special feelings between them. Fezzi’s cousin, James, does all he can and more to befriend Belle and sooth her anxious heart. In the process he falls completely in love with her.

It’s another dilemma of marriage by convenience and obligation verses love. Obligation will give Belle financial security, escape from an oppressive aunt, and a coveted title. On the other hand, love is creeping into her mind and heart that is hard to ignore.

There were times in the first two-thirds of the story I found my mind wondering as it was pretty routine. The last third picked up and my attention was focused and curious. It was good enough to check out the read the two sequels of Christmas present and Christmas future. I will read ‘Past’ again next year to set the stage for the rest. It’s an intriguing premise and I liked it! 3½ stars from me.

[Candy Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Belle Young is sent to her aunt and cousins when her parents die. They are mean to her and tell her she is ugly, has no dowry, and will never find a mate. Lady Wilkins has Belle come over to her house for any holidays or special occasions. Belle enjoyed playing with Fezzie and James, they were always a threesome. Before Lord Wilkins left for the states and his grand tour, he said he would come back and make her happy and away from her aunt. In the end, she waited a long time till she saw him again. When he came home he brought a lady friend that he fawned all over. James was angry, Lord Wilkins had asked for Belle's hand, and now what?
James Radcliff had no title or money. He loved his aunt and cousin and enjoyed going to their house. He had a little manor that didn't make much but it kept the bills away and feed him. As the days went on, James found that he was falling in love with Belle but she wanted Fezzie and had waited all that time for him.
This is a lovely story. The characters are so sweet and giving. There are some misunderstandings and twists to the tale but it is still delightful. The book was interesting and kept one's attention. Something always seemed to be happening. I have to admit I let a few tears fall but everything mixed well and made you feel as if there really was hope in the world.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Brandi Raae · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Belle wasn’t showy, nor did she demand the attention of the whole room. But when one took the time to notice her, it was hard to miss the fact that she shone brighter than any candle or golden ornament.”

Belle longs to be a somebody, a lady with a title. She’s counting on Lord Wilkins’s promise to her when he returns from his travels abroad. Belle is quite surprised when a vibrant young woman follows him home from America. However, she remains determined to remind Lord Wilkins of his promise, or she will continue to live as an unwanted ward of her aunt, forever alone.

James Radcliffe is content to be Lord Wilkins’s cousin and only a gentleman without a title. When he discovers that his cousin may not actually be who he thinks he is, James determines to find the evidence and destroy it, even if it means losing any chance to win the woman he loves.

I enjoyed this book by L. G. Rollins. It’s not a retelling in the truest sense of the word but definitely has some Dickens vibes. The Hope of Christmas Past is the first book in the trilogy and explores the lessons and ideas the Ghost of Christmas Past presents. James was definitely my favorite character. I recommend if you like historical English settings and a hint of Charles Dickens.

[Katherine · Rating 2 out of 5]

I so wanted to love this as it has many of the elements I usually enjoy. Unfortunately I found the writing repetitive, exceedingly awkward, and too much of the story not in keeping with the era in which it was set. Manners and behavior of the time were strictly adhered to but here there were clearly modern behaviors and sensibilities that would have been unacceptable. My biggest difficulty was questionable, confusing word choice. A word should not only convey meaning but also allow a narrative to flow, however many of the author's word choices brought me up short and jerked me out of the reading. "Swirling eyes," "whisper-yell," and "vicary smile" were only three of many encountered.

Despite the author's obviously extensive research into many of the terms that might have been used during the period, which I appreciated, the other aspects I mention above keep me from recommending the book. Sadly, not the author for me.

2 stars (1 star added for the author's in-depth research and effort, and for the clean romance.)

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Essence of Dickens' Christmas Carol

L. G. Rollins promised a tale inspired by Dickens' Ghost of Christmas past and she definitely delivered. Rollins has created a tale that pays homage to the much loved Christmas classic, while still able to stand on its own. Belle has lived her life feeling as though she is nobody. Her hopes and dreams are pinned on the promise of a dear neighbor and friend. Yet when he returns from a prolonged absence, Belle is forced to realize that she has more to do with her own future happiness than she ever believed possible.

This is a delightful story made even more so by the overt inclusion on Dickens characters and phrases. I love the premise of this trilogy and found this first installment a satisfying and enjoyable read. Moving on to book 2.

[Jeanie's Kindle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A pleasant surprise. Often when something is an adaptation of a famous work it is terrible. This was not. Although mentioning the Dickens characters and embedding them into the story, it was not a rewrite and an attempt to improve that goes terribly awry.
This is a young lady that has waited three long years for a gentleman who made a veiled proposal to return from America to marry her. As in so many of these books, she is an orphan, with no title and no dowry. She is also being raised by an aunt who treats her as a subhuman while her own daughter is lavished with the best of everything. Authors seem to drum this theme to death.
When the young man returns home he brings not only a young American lady, but her entire family. It is obvious he means to marry. His previous commitment long ago set aside.

[Kissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely historical romance taking place during the holidays as one discovers what matters more to them, fulfilling a past promise or embracing a future with true love. While the author does take inspiration from Charles Dickens' beloved tale and even sprinkles a few characters into the world presented, this story felt fresh and didn't come off as a rehash. Belle, Fizzi, James, and even Miss Smith are all fascinating characters and kept me captivated as the story progressed; the various romances presented were enjoyable to read and felt real (even at times feeling a bit too close to home for comfort in some cases, in a good reflective way). Overall, I quite enjoyed this book and can easily find myself rereading it as well as checking out the rest of the series. Fans of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol and Jane Austen's romances will enjoy this selection.

[Maria Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this Christmas story inspired by A Christmas Carol. This story isn't a retelling but nods to Dickens' story through out even including Mr. Scrooge himself. I enjoyed the romance(s) and the primary and secondary characters. Especially loved James. One couldn't find a finer man. And he and Belle have some great chemistry. These characters grow and develop through the story. I believe we would all be better off in life if we could learn the lesson of hope that Belle learned as she grew to know and love herself. This book is full of hope and therefore aptly named.

I look forward to the next in this series.

No sex, language or violence
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Amy Withee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: fiction
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was such a sweet, tender story. It had all the societal norms of the regency era which always presents enough drama on its own (nice ladies mustn’t say how they feel, nice ladies must marry for status and not love). The tributes to Dickens’ work were tastefully done and really fun to read. Overall, I found myself wishing I had the next installment to read right away! It was a wonderful seasonal read and I would recommend to anyone who loves Pride and Prejudice Or Persuasion—-the motifs are similar and the characters delightful….all except for Miss Smith😄. Also it made me daily thankful that we can marry the person who we love and not because they are a duke or an earl and we are a penniless lady with nothing but our good humor to recommend us…LoL!

[Littlemissreadergirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute clean Christmas story

How how she Incorporated things from Ghost of Christmas Past play Scrooge and such. That was such a fun character I really enjoyed James as well. Miss. Smith was such a great, fun character. She's the Girl you could be great friends with but at the same time you might want to hate. I liked the game Belle had with Mrs Byrd with moving things around the house seeing if the other would notice. Like the author's other books she has great descriptions of the place and characters you can see it all. What an enjoyable story. I highly recommend this book and series to anyone who enjoys a clean, fun regency romance

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the first in a series that alludes to Dicken's A Christmas Carol frequently in each book, along with telling its own story. You don't need to know the original story to enjoy this one, but you will notice similar scenes or phrasing in bits. Some of the characters in the original show up here, changed ever so slightly... or not.

The original characters in the story well done and the plot is wonderful. The characters show growth as the story progresses and we're treated with a great lesson on the power of hope.

[A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5*  This Christmas themed novel cleverly weaves Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol themes and characters into a fresh and insightful tale of love and self worth and change.  L.G. Rollins has incorporated strong characters who have wonderful transformations with magnetic attraction, beautiful scenes, and philosophical gems.  The middle of the book thoroughly explores where the characters are coming from, but the pace picks up for a satisfying conclusion.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this Regency romance! The characters were unique, the world building was great, and the dialogue was perfect for that time period. Belle had hope that Lord Fezzi would take her away from a depressing home life with her aunt and cousin, but Fezzi was smitten with Georgiana and Fezzi’s cousin, James, was attracted to Belle. Who would make a match, with who? This book had action, regency life, romance, hope, Scrooge, Cratchit, titles, puppets, duty, a letter, promises, family, and more!

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
This is the first book I have read by this Author.
Whilst the book is a nice read, I found I didn't engage with it too well, and I thought it was too long drawn out.
The Characters were well rounded, but I felt like knocking their heads together a few times! I did like the way Belle had changed by the end of the book. I liked the part where she realises she only needs to put her trust in God and no one else. It was very loosely based on scrooge.
A nice book but I didn't love it unfortunately. I read through kindle unlimited.

[Linda Klager · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surprising second chance at love

Below waited patiently for Fezzi to remember his promise to wed her. Fezzi changed after living for a while in America.

James was Fezzi's cousin and best friend. James found a buried secret and tried to keep that secret from those he loved.

Belle did not grow up in a wealthy family. She felt others did not give her the attention and love she craved.

Later on, Belle realized her worth, and that freed her to see herself in a positive manner.

There was a very sweet romance with this story.