Merry A Novel
Merry A Novel by Susan Breen, published by Crooked Lane Books on September 23, 2025, is a 336-page work in English that explores the complexities of family dynamics during the holiday season. The story follows Merry Bingham, a mother determined to revive the joy of Christmas for her family, despite her growing anxieties about life and death. As she grapples with her family’s reluctance to embrace the holiday spirit, Merry’s efforts take a turn when she finds herself haunted by the ghost of Charles Dickens, adding a whimsical yet poignant layer to her struggle.
Readers will find a narrative that delves into themes of family life and the pressures of holiday expectations. As Merry attempts to create a memorable Christmas experience, her plans unravel, leading to conflicts among her children and a strained relationship with her husband. The presence of Dickens’ ghost serves as a catalyst for Merry’s journey, highlighting the challenges of maintaining traditions in a modern context. This novel offers a blend of fiction, holiday cheer, and family exploration, making it a fitting read for those who appreciate stories centered around the festive season.
Official synopsis Publisher
A mother’s valiant efforts to bring her family the joy of Christmas go haywire when she finds herself haunted by the angry ghost of Charles Dickens.
This sparkling, cozy novel is perfect for readers of Emma Straub’s This Time Tomorrow and anyone who looks forward to watching It’s a Wonderful Life each December!
Merry Bingham used to love Christmas—until she started worrying all the time about family, money, and death. The only thing that continues to bring her joy is reading from her heirloom edition of A Christmas Carol, autographed by Charles Dickens himself and passed down through five generations of her family. Now, as she waits for the results of the medical tests that will tell her whether this Christmas season will be her last, Merry prepares to give her book to the next generation. Except none of her three children wants it.
Merry refuses to surrender Christmas or Dickens without a fight, so she sells the book and uses the money to take her family to London. She will fill them with Christmas joy even if she has to cram it down their throats.
But the harder Merry pushes, the worse everything gets. Her children erupt into vicious arguments, her gentle husband stops talking to her, her deluxe rental apartment is not what was promised. Oh, and she keeps seeing the ghost of Charles Dickens around town—and he is not happy with her.
Fans of family stories, classic literature, Christmas novels, and holiday season magic will adore Merry.
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