After the Spirits Come
Beth Ford
Peony Books (2025)
ISBN: 979-8330476206
Reviewed by Melinda Facal for Reader Views (05/2025)
After the Spirits Come: A Continuation of Dickens’s A Christmas Carol by Beth Ford is an enchanting and imaginative tale that invites readers on a new journey with Ebenezer Scrooge. Set in London, the story begins at a festive New Year’s Eve party at the home of Fred, Scrooge’s nephew, and Fred’s wife, Clara. Inspired by the previous visits from the spirits over Christmas, Scrooge has a new outlook on life and is excited to live with purpose and generosity both personally and professionally. Scrooge soon discovers that there are those who do not trust him and some who believe he should pay for his past.
Ford seamlessly weaves beloved characters, such as Scrooge’s family members and the Cratchit family, along with interesting new characters, some delightful, some mischievous, and some whose motives are questionable. Scrooge is endearing as he tries to take action to change his old ways and gain the trust of others. Fred and Clara are charming and endlessly supportive. Understandably, Bob Cratchit and his family have some reservations about Scrooge’s new attitude. Miss Spencer is a strong, independent woman who encourages Scrooge, while his new housekeeper has some suspicious behaviors. There are doctors who question Scrooge’s mental stability, and old clients seeking revenge on Scrooge.
All of these compelling characters tell a fascinating and intriguing story that is filled with mystery, romance, suspense, and redemption. The dark side of London is shown through orphanages, homeless shelters, and drug dealers. This is contrasted with a sense of hope and optimism as Scrooge and his family, Miss Spencer, and Bob Cratchit’s family strive to improve the lives of others.
There are many heartwarming moments while Scrooge learns from past mistakes and sets out to do right. He is captivating and lovable as he doubts himself, has difficulty interacting with others, and is constantly trying to reach out and help others. The vivid and clear descriptions of Scrooge’s internal struggles are compelling and will have readers empathizing with him while rooting for him to succeed.
After the Spirits Come: A Continuation of Dickens’s A Christmas Carol is a riveting and engaging read from start to finish. Fans of Dickens’s classic A Christmas Carol will enjoy getting to know more about the inner workings and thoughts of Scrooge. Readers will appreciate the compelling twists and turns this novel takes, where everything and everyone is not always as it appears to be, yet second chances and forgiveness are highly valued.