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A Haunting for Christmas
A haunting Christmas story. This modern take on a timeless classic will raise the hairs on the back of your neck, then leave you with a tear in your eye. The novel combines the spookiness of Halloween with all the warmth of the Christmas season. It is a dark and thrilling supernatural mystery with a dramatic and emotional conclusion.
283 pages, ebook
First published October 30, 2020
5 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 4, 2022
first off, i wanna thank the booktasters community for connecting me with this amazing story and its author. This wasn’t my go-to genre and something i wouldn’t have picked on a fair day but still, i enjoyed every minute of it. On a side note, it took me less than two days to finish this because I was soo soo hooked the entire time it even gave me a feeling i wasn’t actually reading it. I felt it.
It was super spooky and just the way i like cuz ghosts appeal to a special part of me(ugh). There were nightmares, a sinister walking corpse haunting the mc, and to top it all, an even better and heartwrenching tale with a mysterious twist to it. I’m a sucker for good stories, but this was good in all the wrong ways and I was sucked into it. I loved how every character got their own part to say in the mc’s life. The way his decisions affected them individually in a way you can pinpoint exactly what. I was a little scared if the writing was for me or not cuz like i said, this wasn’t my regular type, but it was beautifully done. The flow was super easy to follow and I wouldn’t lie about the jumpscares i got a couple of times. Maybe I wouldn’t have been shocked had I been a little less invested in the story itself.
Another major thing that surprised me was the redemption. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting any because a lesson good learnt was all i thought would conclude it. Ngl, it made it even better. I was bursting with joy reading those last chapters. They did give a better edge to the whole thing and filled me with a bittersweet feeling. It was almost as close to perfection it could get.
Well, i got another author to look forward to now, don’t i? hahaha. It was amazing and I’m so grateful to have been given an opportunity to read something fresh and different from my taste. Thanks again for sending this book along my way. I absolutely adored it.
It was super spooky and just the way i like cuz ghosts appeal to a special part of me(ugh). There were nightmares, a sinister walking corpse haunting the mc, and to top it all, an even better and heartwrenching tale with a mysterious twist to it. I’m a sucker for good stories, but this was good in all the wrong ways and I was sucked into it. I loved how every character got their own part to say in the mc’s life. The way his decisions affected them individually in a way you can pinpoint exactly what. I was a little scared if the writing was for me or not cuz like i said, this wasn’t my regular type, but it was beautifully done. The flow was super easy to follow and I wouldn’t lie about the jumpscares i got a couple of times. Maybe I wouldn’t have been shocked had I been a little less invested in the story itself.
Another major thing that surprised me was the redemption. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting any because a lesson good learnt was all i thought would conclude it. Ngl, it made it even better. I was bursting with joy reading those last chapters. They did give a better edge to the whole thing and filled me with a bittersweet feeling. It was almost as close to perfection it could get.
Well, i got another author to look forward to now, don’t i? hahaha. It was amazing and I’m so grateful to have been given an opportunity to read something fresh and different from my taste. Thanks again for sending this book along my way. I absolutely adored it.
November 25, 2022
This spooky Christmas story did not disappoint
Horror isn’t my go-to genre and something i wouldn't have picked on a fair day but still, i enjoyed it.
Although i was not sucked into the story in the beginning, i enjoyed the second part of the book. The plot was kind of predictable for me BUT STILL i was so excited to read about what will happen next
The chapters were a bit long for my liking. So i was a bit struggling to read it
At first I thought the MC narcissistic and self centered But the more I read, that anger and hatred he had made me understand him and maybe even like him.
All in all, I can say that it was a good book and I enjoyed reading it and I recommend it
Horror isn’t my go-to genre and something i wouldn't have picked on a fair day but still, i enjoyed it.
Although i was not sucked into the story in the beginning, i enjoyed the second part of the book. The plot was kind of predictable for me BUT STILL i was so excited to read about what will happen next
The chapters were a bit long for my liking. So i was a bit struggling to read it
At first I thought the MC narcissistic and self centered But the more I read, that anger and hatred he had made me understand him and maybe even like him.
All in all, I can say that it was a good book and I enjoyed reading it and I recommend it
December 6, 2022
⭐ CONTENT
A story about Richard who hates the Christmas very much. Richard is a writer, which is a bestseller author, but he makes a big mistake in his career. He is an annoyed person and really inconsiderate to others. Many people didn't like his personality. Till one day, he always been disturbed by some hooded spectre, reaper. Why Richard hates Christmas so much? What happened to his family? Why Richard is such a bad person? You must read the book!
⏳ YES/NO
At first, I feel a little bored because I don't like the Richard character. But the story becomes more interesting when Richard flashes back his past memory and see how he make his family disappointed. You must read this book. I'm really enjoying the book till the end.
👤 CHARACTER
I really like the Marty's character. How Marty can stand Richard's annoyed personality and stay with him? Such a patience person, especially when his wife was diagnosed with cancer.
📝 PLOT
I like the part which Richard keeps haunting by his past and he feels terrible. I satisfied when he finally realized that he is a very bad person and had disappointed too many people especially his mother. And of course I like the ending. You must read it on your own to know how the story end.
Thank you to booktasters community and the author!
A story about Richard who hates the Christmas very much. Richard is a writer, which is a bestseller author, but he makes a big mistake in his career. He is an annoyed person and really inconsiderate to others. Many people didn't like his personality. Till one day, he always been disturbed by some hooded spectre, reaper. Why Richard hates Christmas so much? What happened to his family? Why Richard is such a bad person? You must read the book!
⏳ YES/NO
At first, I feel a little bored because I don't like the Richard character. But the story becomes more interesting when Richard flashes back his past memory and see how he make his family disappointed. You must read this book. I'm really enjoying the book till the end.
👤 CHARACTER
I really like the Marty's character. How Marty can stand Richard's annoyed personality and stay with him? Such a patience person, especially when his wife was diagnosed with cancer.
📝 PLOT
I like the part which Richard keeps haunting by his past and he feels terrible. I satisfied when he finally realized that he is a very bad person and had disappointed too many people especially his mother. And of course I like the ending. You must read it on your own to know how the story end.
Thank you to booktasters community and the author!
October 6, 2023
first off, thank you for booktasters for connecting me with this author/book! now for my thoughts, while i’m not too experienced within this genre, i have a read a few horror/thriller books. although i was not sucked into the story in the beginning, near the middle-end i was completely immersed. the story was so beautifully written and i would recommend this exceptional book to many other readers!
July 19, 2021
📚My Review:- A Haunting For Christmas " is an incredible horror frictional book by the author Anthony Di Angelo, which will leave the reader craving for more and more. The book is a big one, it contains around 280+ pages which will take everyone on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I'm sure you won't regret picking this book up.As I have already read a few books by the author,I had huge expectations from this one too. And guess what the author never failed to make the readers satisfied. This is not only a paranormal thriller read but it has a emotional, heart touching story hidden deep inside that will surely give you goosebumps. The story starts with Richard, who was too much frightened. He encountered a strange figure which he was unable to recognise. Before he could do anything, he noticed a women dressed in all black, standing before a casket that sat above an open grave. The silence of the night was suddenly filled with moans and cries echoing in the darkness. He kept on seeing such supernatural things happening around him. He tried his best to keep himself busy during the day but somehow all the past night memories flashed in his mind again and again. How did he overcome this fear? How supported him throughout this haunted journey? Was the things he encountered real? Or was it a bad nightmare? This book also shows us the relationship between a husband wife. To know all the answer to your questions, you must read this book out.The plot of the story is so fantastically crafted and designed with amazing characters. The language used by the author is simple and clear for anyone to understand. The tittle of the story is appropriate for the content. The writing style along with the narration is kept smooth and flawless throughout. Also, the cover looks simple yet so attractive. Overall, I loved reading this book.
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January 7, 2022Super duper mini spoiler ahead! (Last paragraph)
This story follows a middle-aged man on the cusp of a failing writing career that he's trying to reignite. Richard is a cruel, selfish, successful, yet lonely individual that has consciously isolated himself from everyone, especially his family. As he makes a feeble attempt to bring back the glory of his writing career, Richard learns his father has passed.
This is the inciting incident that ultimately forces Richard to face how he is responsible for his family's suffering and his own. As he is pulled into memories from the past with the company of the Grim Reaper, Richard witnesses his actions from his family's point of view bringing new insight and feelings of grief that he has always pushed away. It's through these slightly altered memories that Richard finally learns how to be a better brother, son, and friend.
Despite the title, I would say anyone that is easily spooked can definitely still read this. "Haunting" in this case refers more to Richard being haunted by his past mistakes and less about the Grim Reaper. Richard is a pretty terrible person but he is meant to be so I was glad that he finally acknowledged his role in decimating his family ties. I did wish there were more nuances to his character that showed he was redeemable or why he deserved this second chance at life but if you're a fan of A Christmas Carol, I think you'll definitely like this novella! It has the core elements but is set in the publishing world and is definitely placed in a more of a modern-day setting.
This story follows a middle-aged man on the cusp of a failing writing career that he's trying to reignite. Richard is a cruel, selfish, successful, yet lonely individual that has consciously isolated himself from everyone, especially his family. As he makes a feeble attempt to bring back the glory of his writing career, Richard learns his father has passed.
This is the inciting incident that ultimately forces Richard to face how he is responsible for his family's suffering and his own. As he is pulled into memories from the past with the company of the Grim Reaper, Richard witnesses his actions from his family's point of view bringing new insight and feelings of grief that he has always pushed away. It's through these slightly altered memories that Richard finally learns how to be a better brother, son, and friend.
Despite the title, I would say anyone that is easily spooked can definitely still read this. "Haunting" in this case refers more to Richard being haunted by his past mistakes and less about the Grim Reaper. Richard is a pretty terrible person but he is meant to be so I was glad that he finally acknowledged his role in decimating his family ties. I did wish there were more nuances to his character that showed he was redeemable or why he deserved this second chance at life but if you're a fan of A Christmas Carol, I think you'll definitely like this novella! It has the core elements but is set in the publishing world and is definitely placed in a more of a modern-day setting.
January 1, 2023
The author took a classic novel for Charles Dickens and gave it his touch to make a dark horror novel that got me terrified then ended happily after a surprising twist.
The main character Richard Charles, is a writer who hates Christmas and everything about it. He was hunted by nightmares about a dark spectre, and was battling writer’s block.
Richard is selfish, arrogant, and rude to the people around him especially his family. All he wanted in life was money and power, and for that he will do anything. His actions brought his family sadness and sorrows and broke the heart of his friend Bella who was in love with him. He started to see the dark spectre when he was awake and thought he was going crazy, things started to collapse around him and when he thought all hope was gone, a surprising twist sent him back before all the misery, it was now his chance to make things right.
I found the main Character very interesting, and made me think how our actions affects the others. Also the importance to hold on to your family and friends and appreciate them.
This was the third novel I have read for the author and I really enjoy his style, I wish him good luck in his future projects.
The main character Richard Charles, is a writer who hates Christmas and everything about it. He was hunted by nightmares about a dark spectre, and was battling writer’s block.
Richard is selfish, arrogant, and rude to the people around him especially his family. All he wanted in life was money and power, and for that he will do anything. His actions brought his family sadness and sorrows and broke the heart of his friend Bella who was in love with him. He started to see the dark spectre when he was awake and thought he was going crazy, things started to collapse around him and when he thought all hope was gone, a surprising twist sent him back before all the misery, it was now his chance to make things right.
I found the main Character very interesting, and made me think how our actions affects the others. Also the importance to hold on to your family and friends and appreciate them.
This was the third novel I have read for the author and I really enjoy his style, I wish him good luck in his future projects.
January 12, 2023
Even though Christmas has already passed I was looking forward to a Christmas read. One that was more morbid and melancholic. A Haunting for christmas is a book for those of us who don’t go completely crazy buying a Christmas tree and decorating their house. Those who don’t plan for Christmas but suddenly look at our calendars and it’s already the 24th of December. I know I’m a grinch, I can’t help it. I never get excited for Hallmark movies, maybe only the snow. But that’s what made me love Richard Charles, he is an absolute grinch. Of course like every book out there our hero gets a happy ending. He realizes Christmas is much more than a task on a list. It’s a time to be shared with your loved ones. Richard Charles is a typical character who only cares about success but life offers him a chance to fix things and appreciate his family and his life. Di Angelo’s descriptive scenes and character struggles add to the story. The characters feel lifelike instead of fictional, they are relatable and flawed. Christmas wouldn’t be the holiday it is without a few of us Scrooge’s and Grinch’s. This book reminds us the true spirit of Christmas lies in our hearts.
February 1, 2022
I connected to the author via BookTasters community & received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I started reading it during the Christmas week. The fact that the story revolved around Christmas season made it a lot exciting to read.
It's a very well written horror fiction story.
Right from page one this book caught my attention till the end. As you progress the plot might seem predictable but then it keeps the readers guessing about what will happen next.
The dream journal part was one of the most interesting things which I always wanted to do myself.
Through the characters lives we can imagine ourselves going through everything that they went through and can learn on how we can improve ourselves and handle situations in a well manner.
The scary beings we see is what we perceive as horror but it's actually the after effects of our actions.
The book was so interesting that I could finish the chapters at a good pace and wasn't bored at all.
I recommend this book to horror cum fiction genre lovers.
I started reading it during the Christmas week. The fact that the story revolved around Christmas season made it a lot exciting to read.
It's a very well written horror fiction story.
Right from page one this book caught my attention till the end. As you progress the plot might seem predictable but then it keeps the readers guessing about what will happen next.
The dream journal part was one of the most interesting things which I always wanted to do myself.
Through the characters lives we can imagine ourselves going through everything that they went through and can learn on how we can improve ourselves and handle situations in a well manner.
The scary beings we see is what we perceive as horror but it's actually the after effects of our actions.
The book was so interesting that I could finish the chapters at a good pace and wasn't bored at all.
I recommend this book to horror cum fiction genre lovers.
December 26, 2022
This is a novel that kept me up at night to keep reading, and it's that story that I didn't want to end. The story is full of scenes of terror and suspense, as well as joy and sadness, which help to build and give a better understanding of the life of our protagonist Richard Charles, as well as his hatred of Christmas dates. Personally, I feel that as presents a very nice story that touches the heart, especially if it is read at Christmas time. It is a story that both children and young people and adults should read and let the Christmas spirit enter each one of them. Also, I would like characters like Dr. Lovejoy to exist to make us understand and see the importance of the Christmas holidays, and allow us to have those second chances to do things differently. For me, this book is a "must read" for everyone. Thanks to the booktaster community for giving me the opportunity to read this story, as well as Anthony (author) for writing what I now consider a Christmas (and who knows, maybe Halloween too haha) classic.
September 17, 2022
It's a thrilling story. I like the twist and turns which kind of put me in suspense. Although I had a strong feeling about the turn of events, the way the author lined up the events got me deeply interested in grasping the entire details of the story. And despite being unable to read through at a stretch because of my busy schedule, it was not difficult to catch up from where I left off.
I appreciate the storyline deeply. I grew up reading stories that depict messages like this, but I must say, it's becoming rare to get this much depth from a book, particularly in a world that is now so reluctant to content like this. Save for the typos, A haunting for Christmas is a great story I would recommend to anyone. It reminds us of the good and bad inherent in us as humans and how our choices form who we are/become.
My appreciation goes to Booktasters and the author for giving me the opportunity to experience this book in exchange for an honest review.
I appreciate the storyline deeply. I grew up reading stories that depict messages like this, but I must say, it's becoming rare to get this much depth from a book, particularly in a world that is now so reluctant to content like this. Save for the typos, A haunting for Christmas is a great story I would recommend to anyone. It reminds us of the good and bad inherent in us as humans and how our choices form who we are/become.
My appreciation goes to Booktasters and the author for giving me the opportunity to experience this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2022
First of all,
Thank you Anthony De Angelo and Booktasters for this amazing Christmas present!
The taking for granted,
The excuses,
The faking it till making it persona,
And for what?
Irrespective of all the given flaws,
I could totally relate;
And that says something because relatability is not an adjective you use for spooky stories every day!
Although, it's a perfect blend of Halloween and Christmas (Sorry! Had to say it;)
Slow burn alert : The payoff is worth it.
I was literally screaming when I thought the author himself was giving me spoilers...Nope, he's just a couple of steps ahed of you, don't worry, you'll catch up!
I am going to make everyone I know read this very much festive book.
A lesson well learnt, grateful for my "second chance"!
Thank you Anthony De Angelo and Booktasters for this amazing Christmas present!
The taking for granted,
The excuses,
The faking it till making it persona,
And for what?
Irrespective of all the given flaws,
I could totally relate;
And that says something because relatability is not an adjective you use for spooky stories every day!
Although, it's a perfect blend of Halloween and Christmas (Sorry! Had to say it;)
Slow burn alert : The payoff is worth it.
I was literally screaming when I thought the author himself was giving me spoilers...Nope, he's just a couple of steps ahed of you, don't worry, you'll catch up!
I am going to make everyone I know read this very much festive book.
A lesson well learnt, grateful for my "second chance"!
December 23, 2021
A wonderfully written Christmas horror story that keeps you gripped from beginning to end. The story is full of twists and turns that keep you entertained. This is great as the book is nearly 300 pages but it's amazing how fast you can get through it as the book is so readable. Author Di Angelo has created a cast of characters that are likeable, well developed and you want to follow as the story unfolds. I especially like the contrast between the backdrop of the festive Christmas season and the nightmares plaguing the main character. Overall a highly recommended read for fans of the horror genre and anyone who loves a Christmas story with a twist.
October 16, 2021
A haunting for christmas had me hooked the whole time i had to read this book several times as i could not put a word into my head it had me that rivetted with a modern twist to the storyline i felt i was looking through the eyes of the character in the book. i would have to say that it had its twists and turns not knowing what was going to happen it surprised me the whole time. highly recommend this book it will have you hooked.
May 8, 2025
Richard might not be a role model, but I actually loved his character—his cynicism and dark humor really pulled me in. I especially enjoyed the part where he admits he hates Christmas but still writes about it because it sells. That felt very true to his character. The only moment that didn’t sit right with me was when he confessed to not writing his last book, even though he knew the woman he sacrificed for his career had become a journalist. It seemed odd that he’d risk admitting that, knowing she could easily record him. Aside from that, the story was compelling, believable, and even spooky at times. I’d give it a solid 4.5 stars
January 2, 2022
I have just finished A hunting for Christmas wow what a book I just loved it. I don't want to give anything away but I thought this book was very powerful to read and yes it did open my eyes. Anyway I think the author is awesome and I hope to read more and I was a bit upset when it finished because I wanted it to carry it on that is why I given him 5 stars
April 4, 2023
Honestly, this isn't my go-to genre but, i really like it. It's the third thriller book i read and it's amazing. The storyline is well explained and isn't boring, if your first language is spanish and you're trying to improve your english by reading, this would help a lott.
Ngl, it took me time to finish because of college but when i finally get to read the end, it was everythinggggg
Ngl, it took me time to finish because of college but when i finally get to read the end, it was everythinggggg
December 15, 2022
Thank you to Booktasters and the author for allowing me to read this fantastic book! I thoroughly enjoyed the story and it’s a great book to read at this time of year. I usually enjoy horror books and this one did not disappoint. I would recommend this to horror and non-horror fans!
December 30, 2022
Thank you BookTasters community for connecting me with this book. It was not my usual read, I’m not usually one for Christmas thrillers but I loved it. Such a good, captivating read and I will recommend with everyone I know!
December 6, 2022
Thank you booktaster for recommend this book.
This wasn't a horror story as I imagine. The word haunting deviant me. Nevertheless, it still managed to make me suffocate with all the baggage of trauma, regret, and guilt Richard went through.
The character development is chef kiss and I love all the plot twist. Few times a scene suggests a cliché scene but author end in a different way, bring the scene away from cliché story. I hate Richard at first, especially when he ignored his father's effort to give his first car.
Took me almost a month to finish the book. There are few typo mistakes which annoy me a bit but still understandable. It can be bored since it lack of dialogue, monologue, and script. The author used narrative style. Thus, the emotion was there but not reach to me. It's” telling than showing" type of book.
Personally, reading this book is refreshing. No matter how hard life is, how bad you're there is always a second chance if you will to take it. Beginning didn't define our end.
This wasn't a horror story as I imagine. The word haunting deviant me. Nevertheless, it still managed to make me suffocate with all the baggage of trauma, regret, and guilt Richard went through.
The character development is chef kiss and I love all the plot twist. Few times a scene suggests a cliché scene but author end in a different way, bring the scene away from cliché story. I hate Richard at first, especially when he ignored his father's effort to give his first car.
Took me almost a month to finish the book. There are few typo mistakes which annoy me a bit but still understandable. It can be bored since it lack of dialogue, monologue, and script. The author used narrative style. Thus, the emotion was there but not reach to me. It's” telling than showing" type of book.
Personally, reading this book is refreshing. No matter how hard life is, how bad you're there is always a second chance if you will to take it. Beginning didn't define our end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2022
Loved the theme. Its Christmas season and mixing the story with Halloween is great
Part spooky but overall it's good.
Part spooky but overall it's good.
Read
November 9, 2021This book is divided in 2 parts : Haunting and redemption. The past can certainly haunting you thus influencing your future.
The author did well in describing about the reaper and the cemetery. As to reading about the characters, kudos to the author for evoking lots of emotions from me. There were few times I felt like shouting at one of the characters named Richard for how despicable his character was especially the part where his dad worked hard all day and night to renovate a car as a present to Richard for reaching 16 years old. Richard turned down that present in front of his friends and embarrassed his.own.daddy. He even compared that with the cars drove by his elite & wealthy friends. If I'm given such present like Richard, I would be over the moon and proudly drive it to & fro school.
The main thing I learnt from this book is how our bitterness and our green eyes can influence our perspective and made us overlook the things that are uniquely provided for us.
When I reached the redemption, again the author managed to evoke the excitement feeling of Christmas. 2 more months to go for 2021 Christmas and I'm so looking forward to it to celebrate with my beloved family.
Vain things won't last. What last is the memories with loved ones. Make it count! This is my take away from this book.
Despite my enjoyment, this book needs another round of editing because I noticed few noticeable mistakes. After this part is fixed, this should be a good read to those who are so looking forward for Christmas or those who simply looking for something scary but in a relaxing way type of read. Lol if that makes sense because in some ways there are scary parts in this book but lack of action that typically expected from any scary reads.
Thank you to Booktaskter and the author himself for reaching out to me on Twitter. I'm willingly leaving this review after given the privilege in reading this book.
The author did well in describing about the reaper and the cemetery. As to reading about the characters, kudos to the author for evoking lots of emotions from me. There were few times I felt like shouting at one of the characters named Richard for how despicable his character was especially the part where his dad worked hard all day and night to renovate a car as a present to Richard for reaching 16 years old. Richard turned down that present in front of his friends and embarrassed his.own.daddy. He even compared that with the cars drove by his elite & wealthy friends. If I'm given such present like Richard, I would be over the moon and proudly drive it to & fro school.
The main thing I learnt from this book is how our bitterness and our green eyes can influence our perspective and made us overlook the things that are uniquely provided for us.
When I reached the redemption, again the author managed to evoke the excitement feeling of Christmas. 2 more months to go for 2021 Christmas and I'm so looking forward to it to celebrate with my beloved family.
Vain things won't last. What last is the memories with loved ones. Make it count! This is my take away from this book.
Despite my enjoyment, this book needs another round of editing because I noticed few noticeable mistakes. After this part is fixed, this should be a good read to those who are so looking forward for Christmas or those who simply looking for something scary but in a relaxing way type of read. Lol if that makes sense because in some ways there are scary parts in this book but lack of action that typically expected from any scary reads.
Thank you to Booktaskter and the author himself for reaching out to me on Twitter. I'm willingly leaving this review after given the privilege in reading this book.
September 20, 2022
Richard Charles is a self-centered, solipsistic, yet stupendously successful man on the verge of overhauling his writing career. His appalling character may likely end after his father’s death, as innumerable responsibilities are left for him to shoulder. But what twist comes to play? Who is the actual hunter? The Grim Reaper or his past? Does Richard succumb or resist and become a better person? How does this story unfold in the end? Grab A Haunting Christmas, a horror Christmas story by Anthony Di Angelo, to find out!
The protagonist of this story, Richard Charles, was a character I immediately connected with because I have such a figure present in my life. Amongst him were an array of successfully developed characters that firmly supported the story. Indeed, this book centers on Richard, it is therefore expected to be told flawlessly, and Anthony Di Angelo did not miss it.
The author’s writing is articulate, incredibly descriptive, periodically epigrammatic, but fluent. The way he describes scenes of the Grim reaper makes it easy to create a mental picture. Like in his previous books, Anthony aroused multiple emotions in this book.
Richard did some foolish things and made absurd comparisons that made me want to throw my phone because I read an ebook version. But seeing how expensive gadgets are, I had to rethink. If I were reading this book as a hard copy, I'm sure I would have soiled some pages on it due to anger.
Naturally, I would rather have a horror movie than a horror book. But this was not a bad read. I am rating this book 4 out of 5 stars due to some errors I encountered while reading.
The protagonist of this story, Richard Charles, was a character I immediately connected with because I have such a figure present in my life. Amongst him were an array of successfully developed characters that firmly supported the story. Indeed, this book centers on Richard, it is therefore expected to be told flawlessly, and Anthony Di Angelo did not miss it.
The author’s writing is articulate, incredibly descriptive, periodically epigrammatic, but fluent. The way he describes scenes of the Grim reaper makes it easy to create a mental picture. Like in his previous books, Anthony aroused multiple emotions in this book.
Richard did some foolish things and made absurd comparisons that made me want to throw my phone because I read an ebook version. But seeing how expensive gadgets are, I had to rethink. If I were reading this book as a hard copy, I'm sure I would have soiled some pages on it due to anger.
Naturally, I would rather have a horror movie than a horror book. But this was not a bad read. I am rating this book 4 out of 5 stars due to some errors I encountered while reading.
December 8, 2021
I chose to read this because I've always liked ghost stories, and the idea of a Christmas-themed ghost story intrigued me, and appealed to me.
As soon as I started reading, this felt to me like a ghost story - I was reminded a little bit of Henry James, Susan Hill, and other authors whose ghost stories I've enjoyed.
Initially, the main character Richard seemed, in many ways, the type of person that I would dislike, and perhaps try to avoid. He seemed arrogant, self-righteous, conniving, bitter, and generally just unpleasant. Having said that, there were still some elements of his personality that I found myself able to relate to, such as spending much of his time alone, and keeping a dream journal. I couldn't quite put my finger on it, but for some reason, I pitied Richard.
A few chapters in, when Richard found himself forced to relive his unpleasant memories from his past, that had an impact on me emotionally, as a reader. I felt involved, and I knew I had to keep reading, because although this character didn't seem like the kindest person in the world, and had made some unwise choices, I felt that I wanted his situation to change.
I would say that I got what I wanted. It was a powerful story to read, and I was emotional, slightly tearful towards the end. I would describe the outcome as magical in some ways, which in my eyes, is what you'd expect a Christmas-themed story to be.
As soon as I started reading, this felt to me like a ghost story - I was reminded a little bit of Henry James, Susan Hill, and other authors whose ghost stories I've enjoyed.
Initially, the main character Richard seemed, in many ways, the type of person that I would dislike, and perhaps try to avoid. He seemed arrogant, self-righteous, conniving, bitter, and generally just unpleasant. Having said that, there were still some elements of his personality that I found myself able to relate to, such as spending much of his time alone, and keeping a dream journal. I couldn't quite put my finger on it, but for some reason, I pitied Richard.
A few chapters in, when Richard found himself forced to relive his unpleasant memories from his past, that had an impact on me emotionally, as a reader. I felt involved, and I knew I had to keep reading, because although this character didn't seem like the kindest person in the world, and had made some unwise choices, I felt that I wanted his situation to change.
I would say that I got what I wanted. It was a powerful story to read, and I was emotional, slightly tearful towards the end. I would describe the outcome as magical in some ways, which in my eyes, is what you'd expect a Christmas-themed story to be.
February 20, 2025
This book is a perfect mix of mystery and suspense. The story puts the reader into a spell starting with the first page.
The detailed description of characters and places are amazing and makes this powerful and emotional story even more perfect.
There is definitely the ghost of 'A Christmas Carol' present but this story is much more.
You follow the journey of Richard - an egoistic, arrogant, self-centered, cold and disliked idiot (like Scrooge) - facing his unpleasant past in haunting nightmares. And you're captivated by this journey.
The back and forth between present day and the past is thrilling.
It's easy to like the characters - except for Richard, who I regularly wanted to shout at and shake violently so he'd come to his senses.
And still - you want to stay by his side and see if there is a chance of him changing into a better man.
After many surprising twists and turns the end is simply perfect for the story - with a touch of magic but without being kitsch.
The detailed description of characters and places are amazing and makes this powerful and emotional story even more perfect.
There is definitely the ghost of 'A Christmas Carol' present but this story is much more.
You follow the journey of Richard - an egoistic, arrogant, self-centered, cold and disliked idiot (like Scrooge) - facing his unpleasant past in haunting nightmares. And you're captivated by this journey.
The back and forth between present day and the past is thrilling.
It's easy to like the characters - except for Richard, who I regularly wanted to shout at and shake violently so he'd come to his senses.
And still - you want to stay by his side and see if there is a chance of him changing into a better man.
After many surprising twists and turns the end is simply perfect for the story - with a touch of magic but without being kitsch.
July 11, 2022
Amazing storyline, I am content after reading this book. I liked how the book conveyed the moral values. And it also described resentment and hatred never give anything good to you, it always spread negativity in your life. Even the protagonist character gives a life lesson, how the story ended it was good too. Like the character we all won't get a chance to relive our life once again and rectify our mistakes and choices. Instead of being hateful to someone, it is better if we think according to their perspective too.
It teaches us that family should be our first priority.
The way story is written, it connects the readers directly with the protagonist situations and scenario. In the starting we might not like the main character but he had so much hatred and anger towards his family, that he didn't think about his family perspective and situations.
In all together I loved the book.
It teaches us that family should be our first priority.
The way story is written, it connects the readers directly with the protagonist situations and scenario. In the starting we might not like the main character but he had so much hatred and anger towards his family, that he didn't think about his family perspective and situations.
In all together I loved the book.
March 3, 2021
Richard Charles is a well established author who is living any author's dream - many best sellers, book tours and all. But he gets stuck at what to write after a few criric reviews that all his books have a similar plot line. He manages to get his next book out which is released during the Christmas holidays. He is forced to stay for the Christmas season. In the meantime, Richard is visited by a plague of nightmares which he notes down in his dream diary. The author takes us on a wonderful journey through the beautiful Christmas season, the new book released, Richard's past and his horrifying nightmares. The plot is written well with all the characters well developed. A must read book for all.
April 12, 2021
A great twist on “A Christmas Carol.”
Anthony Di Angelo, A Haunting for Christmas was a surprise a minute. At first, I felt one way about the main character. As the story unfolds, more questions begin to pop up at you. The way A Haunting for Christmas was written by, Author Anthony Di Angelo made me care about all the characters in the story. Author Anthony Di Angelo carefully weaves a web from beginning to end. I recommend this novel to anybody interested in a great twist to A Christmas Carol. Great job, Anthony!
Anthony Di Angelo, A Haunting for Christmas was a surprise a minute. At first, I felt one way about the main character. As the story unfolds, more questions begin to pop up at you. The way A Haunting for Christmas was written by, Author Anthony Di Angelo made me care about all the characters in the story. Author Anthony Di Angelo carefully weaves a web from beginning to end. I recommend this novel to anybody interested in a great twist to A Christmas Carol. Great job, Anthony!
December 29, 2020
Thank you Booktasters and Anthony Di Angelo for the e-copy of this book.
A sort of a contemporary "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens.
An author is visited by a spectre and is faced with all the bad things he did and is doing in his life.
He starts to see fragments of his past and future life and wonders if it's just an nightmare or an hallucination.
I thought the writing was good and I will definitely read more books by this author.
A sort of a contemporary "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens.
An author is visited by a spectre and is faced with all the bad things he did and is doing in his life.
He starts to see fragments of his past and future life and wonders if it's just an nightmare or an hallucination.
I thought the writing was good and I will definitely read more books by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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January 14, 2021Pulled me into the Story; Amazing
I really enjoyed reading this story as it pulled me into it like at times I was involved. It felt like a "Good Luck Charm" of a family type book that could be read to adults and adult children.
Many different characters, times of year, places, and things throughout the book to hold the readers attention. I believe this could definitely make for a great film. Great job!
I really enjoyed reading this story as it pulled me into it like at times I was involved. It felt like a "Good Luck Charm" of a family type book that could be read to adults and adult children.
Many different characters, times of year, places, and things throughout the book to hold the readers attention. I believe this could definitely make for a great film. Great job!
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