Jacob T. Marley by R. William Bennett

“Marley was dead to begin with . . .”

These chillingly familiar words begin the classic Christmas tale of remorse and redemption in A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Now R. William Bennett rewinds the story and focuses the spotlight on Scrooge’s miserly business partner, Jacob T. Marley, who was allowed to return as a ghost to warn Scrooge away from his ill-fated path. Why was Marley allowed to return? And why hadn’t he been given the same chance as Ebenezer Scrooge?

Or had he?

Written with a voice reminiscent of Dickens, Jacob T. Marley is a masterfully crafted story of remorse and redemption, sure to become a Christmas favorite.(synopsis from Goodreads)

My friend Dave, recommended Jacob T. Marley to me and I quickly added it to my wish-list.  Then, a Goodreads group that I belong to chose it as their December Book of the Month. This was all the excuse I needed; so I purchased the eBook version of it.  I am a huge fan of Dickens and was immediately intrigued by the synopsis.  I am happy to report that this book was simply delightful. Bennett does a remarkable job of emanating Dickens and offers us a fresh tale about Scrooge’s partner Marley.

Bennett explores the reasons behind Marley’s visit to Ebenezer Scrooge and the events that occurred after Marley’s death. If you are familiar with the tale A Christmas Carol, you will remember that Marley visited Scrooge bound in chains that he bore in life. We experience events in Marley’s past that shaped him, how he met Scrooge and what occurred at the time of his death.  The author does a wonderful job of capturing the images and sites of the period, while conveying a clear message of hope, redemption and the spirit of giving.

I highly recommend Jacob T. Marley, to fans of Charles Dickens and holiday classics. This was a fast, easy read, which delivers a wonderful message.   A perfect addition to your holiday reading list and a charming gift. 

  

I gave this book 4 coffee cups out of 5. 

Buy here: B&N or here:Amazon

Author's website:William Bennett