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Jayne Sinclair Genealogical Mystery #6.5
The Christmas Carol: A Jayne Sinclair Genealogical Mystery
When an antique dealer asks Jayne Sinclair, genealogical investigator, to discover the provenance of a first edition of Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol, she is faced with a unique challenge.
How does she find the family of the man in the hand-written dedication when all she has his name, a place, Victorian Manchester, and a date, December 19, 1843?
She has just three days to uncover the truth before the auction. Even worse, she faces spending her own Christmas alone, not something she is looking forward to at all.
Jayne is in a race against time to find the family of the man, his relationship to Dickens and the reason why the author wrote the dedication.
Can she discover the truth behind a Christmas past to deliver a Christmas present?
307 pages, Paperback
First published October 26, 2020
247 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Lee
46 books445 followersMartin has spent most of his adult life writing in one form or another.
He has spent 25 years of his life working outside the North of England. In London, Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Shanghai.
He writes three series; the Danilov books set in 1930s Shanghai. The genealogical mysteries of Jayne Sinclair and the contemporary crime cases of DI Ridpath set in Manchester.
When he's not writing, he splits his time between the UK and Asia, taking pleasure in playing with his daughter, practicing downhill ironing, single-handedly solving the problem of the French wine lake and wishing he were George Clooney.
He has spent 25 years of his life working outside the North of England. In London, Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Shanghai.
He writes three series; the Danilov books set in 1930s Shanghai. The genealogical mysteries of Jayne Sinclair and the contemporary crime cases of DI Ridpath set in Manchester.
When he's not writing, he splits his time between the UK and Asia, taking pleasure in playing with his daughter, practicing downhill ironing, single-handedly solving the problem of the French wine lake and wishing he were George Clooney.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
July 6, 2021
Once again, Jayne Sinclair digs into a mystery and comes up with a winner. I have no idea if the story of Charles Dickens as presented in this book is totally accurate, but it makes for good reading anyway. It is credible and that is all I need.
It was interesting to learn about England in Dickens' time as I don't know much about that era and I learned a lot. I think what is best about this series is the marriage of history and genealogy presented in a well-written, fast-paced tale. As one who has been researching my family history for 40 years, I can follow Jayne's research steps and sometimes anticipate what she will do next. However, as British research is far more daunting than my Canadian work, I am learning what to do when I start working on my "old country" ancestors.
This book is recommended for anyone who loves good writing and a compelling story but anyone would enjoy it.
It was interesting to learn about England in Dickens' time as I don't know much about that era and I learned a lot. I think what is best about this series is the marriage of history and genealogy presented in a well-written, fast-paced tale. As one who has been researching my family history for 40 years, I can follow Jayne's research steps and sometimes anticipate what she will do next. However, as British research is far more daunting than my Canadian work, I am learning what to do when I start working on my "old country" ancestors.
This book is recommended for anyone who loves good writing and a compelling story but anyone would enjoy it.
July 5, 2021
Loved, loved, loved it.
What a fantastic idea for a book. I must be honest I have never read A Christmas Carol only know the story through films and on tv, and of course the muppets. This has brought the story to life and Jayne's normal throughness triumphs in the end. Maybe we have also met another character who will appear in future books? Now waiting for Jayne's next story.
What a fantastic idea for a book. I must be honest I have never read A Christmas Carol only know the story through films and on tv, and of course the muppets. This has brought the story to life and Jayne's normal throughness triumphs in the end. Maybe we have also met another character who will appear in future books? Now waiting for Jayne's next story.
May 19, 2024
I do love this series. The editing is not great but the stories are phenomenal and I love the interweaving of present day and historical storylines. I also think it takes a special person to be able to pen a captivating mystery that has no murders. I put four more books from this series on hold at my library so fingers crossed they come through soon!
May 8, 2021
quite short but lovely
Jayne Sinclair, genealogical detective, is on the case of provenancing a rare manuscript before its auction. Is it an early version of Dickens’ Christmas Carol? Does it tie in with her sort-of-stepmother’s ancestors? Who was Robert Duckworth? Of course, time is limited as usual, three days are all she has. She has all of Manchester’s glorious facilities on hand as well as the usual on-line sites. Half the book is about her research and investigations. The other half is Dickens’ visit to Manchester in 1843 to give a talk at the Athenaeum, to visit his sister and family and to be shown the great, the good and the appalling of an industrial, developing and vibrant city. The two contrast beautifully. As expected, the writing is good, the characterisation and context very well written. It’s quite short but the pace fast and length is right. Any longer and it would have felt too drawn-out. I’ve no idea whether the background has one iota of evidence or not. It doesn’t matter - it’s a lovely, thought provoking story.
Jayne Sinclair, genealogical detective, is on the case of provenancing a rare manuscript before its auction. Is it an early version of Dickens’ Christmas Carol? Does it tie in with her sort-of-stepmother’s ancestors? Who was Robert Duckworth? Of course, time is limited as usual, three days are all she has. She has all of Manchester’s glorious facilities on hand as well as the usual on-line sites. Half the book is about her research and investigations. The other half is Dickens’ visit to Manchester in 1843 to give a talk at the Athenaeum, to visit his sister and family and to be shown the great, the good and the appalling of an industrial, developing and vibrant city. The two contrast beautifully. As expected, the writing is good, the characterisation and context very well written. It’s quite short but the pace fast and length is right. Any longer and it would have felt too drawn-out. I’ve no idea whether the background has one iota of evidence or not. It doesn’t matter - it’s a lovely, thought provoking story.
December 27, 2020
I found this a very satisfying Christmas mystery. Jayne Sinclair, a genealogist is hired to track down a man to whom Charles Dickens inscribed one of the first copies of a Christmas Carol expressing his thanks to the man, and she only has three days. The chapters alternate between Jayne’s search in 2019 and back to the weeks preceding Dickens writing of A Christmas Carol and we see him experience the things which led him to write the story. I learned new things about both Charles Dickens and about the methods employed in genealogy investigation. I highly recommend this book.
January 1, 2021
Really enjoyed this book! This was the first one I've read in this series and by this author.. won't be the last. As the genealogist in my family, I understand how difficult it is to track down ancestors.. missing records, numerous spellings of names, barely legible handwriting on census records.... you name it, it keeps it interesting.. and oh the satisfaction when you finally untangle a thread you've been pulling at for months!! Throw in the sub-story of Charles Dickens, 1840 England and the writing of The Christmas Carol.. how can you go wrong?
June 2, 2021
This was an excellent read, which kept me engaged fully to the end.
Really nice plotting. A believable historic telling of what drove Dickens to write Christmas Carol and an interesting genealogical search. It really feels like the author has gained more confidence to stick to the historic story and genealogical search, with character development over the series, rather than bringing in 'thriller' subplots.
And hurray, the cat has got a cat flap at last! I felt quite sorry for him at times, being locked out in the winter.
Really nice plotting. A believable historic telling of what drove Dickens to write Christmas Carol and an interesting genealogical search. It really feels like the author has gained more confidence to stick to the historic story and genealogical search, with character development over the series, rather than bringing in 'thriller' subplots.
And hurray, the cat has got a cat flap at last! I felt quite sorry for him at times, being locked out in the winter.
December 20, 2020
Christmas 2020 - in need of a little cheer?
I enjoy the Jayne Sinclair series, with its insights into genealogy and settings in various places and times.
This book was a real joy to read in the run up to Christmas. The numerous references and links to A Christmas Carol by Dickens, updated to the current day (well Christmas 2019 if we are being pernickety) was a thoroughly enjoyable seasonal read, with a reminder that in every time and place we can still have hope.
I enjoy the Jayne Sinclair series, with its insights into genealogy and settings in various places and times.
This book was a real joy to read in the run up to Christmas. The numerous references and links to A Christmas Carol by Dickens, updated to the current day (well Christmas 2019 if we are being pernickety) was a thoroughly enjoyable seasonal read, with a reminder that in every time and place we can still have hope.
December 27, 2020
Happy Christmas
My family watched every version of A Christmas Carol on television each season. This was before streaming movies, DVDs, or even VHS tapes. From the 1938 version to Mr Magoo, we eagerly watched and lip synced the lines. It wasn’t until I was an adult, that I found a hard cover of the book that was published in the early 1900’s. I love the story line, characters, and setting. I enjoyed thinking about the scenes as I read this The Christmas Carol. Well done.
My family watched every version of A Christmas Carol on television each season. This was before streaming movies, DVDs, or even VHS tapes. From the 1938 version to Mr Magoo, we eagerly watched and lip synced the lines. It wasn’t until I was an adult, that I found a hard cover of the book that was published in the early 1900’s. I love the story line, characters, and setting. I enjoyed thinking about the scenes as I read this The Christmas Carol. Well done.
December 28, 2020
Although I have enjoyed all the Jayne Sinclair books, I believe this is my favorite. It could be because I read it during the 2020 Christmas season and watched "The Christmas Carol" on Christmas Day, which really brought it to life.
The historical content of the author's writing is always educational and telling little known facts which is another reason I enjoy his books. Please keep them coming!
The historical content of the author's writing is always educational and telling little known facts which is another reason I enjoy his books. Please keep them coming!
January 1, 2025
The genealogical investigator in this novel performs a unique kind of research, and this made for a very entertaining mystery. With some factual background, the author created a believable tale of Charles Dickens’s inspiration for his novella, A Christmas Carol. Enjoying this during the Christmas season added to the reading pleasure. I would consider reading another in this series, as I found the investigative process fascinating!
August 16, 2021
A Christmas Puzzle
This may have been my favorite book in the Jane Sinclair series. Accepting a genealogical search with a challenging deadline of three days may have been against her better judgment, but Jane’s curiosity led her into an interesting puzzle involving Charles Dickens and A Christmas Carol.
This may have been my favorite book in the Jane Sinclair series. Accepting a genealogical search with a challenging deadline of three days may have been against her better judgment, but Jane’s curiosity led her into an interesting puzzle involving Charles Dickens and A Christmas Carol.
December 19, 2020
Review
As always, this was a fantastic book. I love Jayne Sinclair and her determination. Mr Lee's stories are so interesting. This one was quite timely. I started reading it on the day the story started. It was a great read for this time of year.
As always, this was a fantastic book. I love Jayne Sinclair and her determination. Mr Lee's stories are so interesting. This one was quite timely. I started reading it on the day the story started. It was a great read for this time of year.
December 20, 2020
Very Interesting
Even though this book is a work of fiction, it is a very believable explanation of how Dickens came to write "A Christmas Carol". It is admirable that the main character works so hard to find the proof of connection.
Even though this book is a work of fiction, it is a very believable explanation of how Dickens came to write "A Christmas Carol". It is admirable that the main character works so hard to find the proof of connection.
December 24, 2020
Loved this short novel about the search for the identity of the recipient of a Charles Dickens hand-inscribed first edition of "A Christmas Carol" and the inspiration he may have received from a visit to Manchester in 1843 shortly before he wrote the classic.
December 28, 2020
Saved it to read over Christmas to help with the atmosphere. I have read all the Jayne Sinclair books (wonder why this is 6.5?), all the DI Ridpath ones too, but I haven't yet started on the Danilov Shanghai based books. Do they have to be read in a particular order I wonder?
March 25, 2021
Very good
This was an interesting blend of fact and fiction. It was well done that you can believe the fiction was facts. The author explanation at the end is a delight to read. Her passion for this story shines through.
This was an interesting blend of fact and fiction. It was well done that you can believe the fiction was facts. The author explanation at the end is a delight to read. Her passion for this story shines through.
June 9, 2021
Heart confirming
Liked the historic feeling of the “Dickens” chapters, without the fidgety attempt at Victorian grammar ( and spelling) Enjoy so much Ms. Sinclair and her relationship with the cat. Enjoyed the Joy of the season completing the story!
Liked the historic feeling of the “Dickens” chapters, without the fidgety attempt at Victorian grammar ( and spelling) Enjoy so much Ms. Sinclair and her relationship with the cat. Enjoyed the Joy of the season completing the story!
December 12, 2021
Very Enjoyable
As a family researcher, I appreciate the work that goes into delving into the family archives to find all the answers.
It’s always exciting to make a discovery. A great series!
As a family researcher, I appreciate the work that goes into delving into the family archives to find all the answers.
It’s always exciting to make a discovery. A great series!
January 10, 2021
Oh, my gosh, how exciting was that. I couldn't put it down.
So interesting with the Dickens story included. Great fun.
So interesting with the Dickens story included. Great fun.
June 8, 2021
Great Series
I just finished reading the series and loved it. It combines genealogy and a mystery. Jayne's research is fun to read.
I just finished reading the series and loved it. It combines genealogy and a mystery. Jayne's research is fun to read.
October 30, 2021
Wonderful
A great, cheerful uplifting read. A bit different to her usual stories but a very good and 'a warm hug' of a read.
A great, cheerful uplifting read. A bit different to her usual stories but a very good and 'a warm hug' of a read.
January 13, 2022
A fun read
December 30, 2020
While I really enjoyed this book, I cannot recommend buying the paperback edition — although it has a beautiful cover, the interior has multiple production flaws. For instance, the type is widely spaced, and the pages have lots of white space, making the book appear much longer than it really is (false advertising). It also could have used an editor, since I spotted several grammatical errors.
The story, however, is worth reading. It alternates between Charles Dickens in 1843, when he made a visit to Manchester, just before writing his famous A Christmas Carol; and Jayne Sinclair, who has been hired to try to prove the identity of the man a copy of the first edition was inscribed to by the author himself. The catch — she only has three days! Although the Dickens sections were interesting, and provided needed background, I really wanted to get back to Jayne and her research!
The story, however, is worth reading. It alternates between Charles Dickens in 1843, when he made a visit to Manchester, just before writing his famous A Christmas Carol; and Jayne Sinclair, who has been hired to try to prove the identity of the man a copy of the first edition was inscribed to by the author himself. The catch — she only has three days! Although the Dickens sections were interesting, and provided needed background, I really wanted to get back to Jayne and her research!
October 28, 2020
Wonderful book.
First, if you haven't read the other Jayne Sinclair books, do. I always like to start at the beginning but each book can stand on it's own. I just enjoy getting to know the people in the books better by reading them as written. We also got to meet a new character. Hopefully he'll return again in future books.
I read this book in one sitting. It's a great story, as usual. I also enjoyed the sentiment of happiness and joy. With the world seemingly gone crazy, we can all use some happiness and joy.
Get this book and read as soon as you can. I hope you love it as much as I did.
First, if you haven't read the other Jayne Sinclair books, do. I always like to start at the beginning but each book can stand on it's own. I just enjoy getting to know the people in the books better by reading them as written. We also got to meet a new character. Hopefully he'll return again in future books.
I read this book in one sitting. It's a great story, as usual. I also enjoyed the sentiment of happiness and joy. With the world seemingly gone crazy, we can all use some happiness and joy.
Get this book and read as soon as you can. I hope you love it as much as I did.
November 9, 2020
A Literary Mystery
This is a very well-written and unusual genealogy story, researching the history of Dickens' A Christmas Carol, alternating the story of Dickens' visit to Manchester which in some ways inspired the book with a modern race against time to prove its provenance.
Anyone familiar with Dickens' writings will recognize characters names and settings that later make their appearances in later books. It gives a fascinating exploration of his creative process as well as his passion for social justice.
It is also another interesting genealogy mystery in this excellent series.
This is a very well-written and unusual genealogy story, researching the history of Dickens' A Christmas Carol, alternating the story of Dickens' visit to Manchester which in some ways inspired the book with a modern race against time to prove its provenance.
Anyone familiar with Dickens' writings will recognize characters names and settings that later make their appearances in later books. It gives a fascinating exploration of his creative process as well as his passion for social justice.
It is also another interesting genealogy mystery in this excellent series.
November 7, 2020
An unexpected connection
A genealogical mystery involving Charles Dickens, a first edition, and a last minute to the wire research blitz... What a wonderful story! Jayne's genealogy research plans were practical, and as frustrating as they sometimes can be!
I particularly loved the additional biological information about Dickens. And the context of the times of the 1840s... fascinating! This was a very satisfying and intriguing story. Highly recommended!
A genealogical mystery involving Charles Dickens, a first edition, and a last minute to the wire research blitz... What a wonderful story! Jayne's genealogy research plans were practical, and as frustrating as they sometimes can be!
I particularly loved the additional biological information about Dickens. And the context of the times of the 1840s... fascinating! This was a very satisfying and intriguing story. Highly recommended!
October 28, 2020
Another win!
I love a good book. I love genealogy. I love the research involved in solving family tree mysteries. Ihave dreams of becoming a professional genealogist. So it's no surprise that Jayne resonates with me. Thank you for another wonderful journey. I'm just sorry it only took me 2 hours to complete it!
I love a good book. I love genealogy. I love the research involved in solving family tree mysteries. Ihave dreams of becoming a professional genealogist. So it's no surprise that Jayne resonates with me. Thank you for another wonderful journey. I'm just sorry it only took me 2 hours to complete it!
November 6, 2020
A gentle read
When this book came out, couldn’t wait to read it, my favourite Dickens book, read first as a ten year old.
Love the way Dickens, and his contemporaries, were inserted into the story, the descriptions of Victorian Manchester, very harrowing, and the merging of Vera with her ancestor. Couldn’t put it down. Loved it, and look forward to a reread of Christmas Carol x2.
When this book came out, couldn’t wait to read it, my favourite Dickens book, read first as a ten year old.
Love the way Dickens, and his contemporaries, were inserted into the story, the descriptions of Victorian Manchester, very harrowing, and the merging of Vera with her ancestor. Couldn’t put it down. Loved it, and look forward to a reread of Christmas Carol x2.
November 15, 2020
Another wonderful book
M.J. Lee creates another wonderful story, reading it in November was perfect with the Christmas season here. Charles Dickings classic story is brought to life with known facts of his life and Mr. Lee incredible imagination.
M.J. Lee creates another wonderful story, reading it in November was perfect with the Christmas season here. Charles Dickings classic story is brought to life with known facts of his life and Mr. Lee incredible imagination.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews