Merry Christmas? Only if there’s blood…
Scrooge has always despised Christmas, but this year, his hatred festers into something much darker.
When the ghost of his tormented business partner drags himself from the grave, Scrooge assumes he has lost his mind—especially when three more ghosts claw their way into his life on Christmas Eve.
As the night unfolds, Scrooge must confront the demons of his past, unaware that something far more sinister is brewing. Those who dare utter the cursed words “Merry Christmas” will pay a horrifying price.
Humbug is a spine-chilling retelling of A Christmas Carol. This story is part of the Twisted Tales of Familiar Faces collection, featuring classic beloved characters who twisted into terrifying nightmares.
Karleigh –
This was an absolute thrill! As someone who also isn’t a fan of Christmas, I completely relate to the classic bah humbug attitude of Scrooge. Andre Gonzalez masterfully reimagined this story, transforming it into a delightfully gory horror tale that redefines a beloved classic.
If you’re a horror buff hunting for a spooky spin on an old holiday classic, make sure to add this one to your list, you won’t regret it!
What a fantastic start to the Twisted Tales of Familiar Faces!
Diana –
I went into this book blind, haven’t even read any books by this author before. Loved the twist on this classic tale about Ebeneazer Scrooge. This book took us on the expected journey with an unexpected twist, my thoughts are still spinning over what I just experienced. I look forward to trying more books by this author and seeing what they have to offer.
Maureen H –
A very, very dark, entertaining Scrooge for our modern times. Favorite line: “Hope he gets trampled by a pack of carolers while he’s out spreading his misery.” Extremely entertaining. It’s what I always thought Scrooge was supposed to be, rather than a man whose life is changed for the better by the visiting ghosts.
Christine –
My first book by this author did not leave me disappointed! I am extremely excited for this series and to see how the stories intertwine! I love remakes of classics!
This particular one is a horror remake of A Christmas Carol. It brings a much different light to the modern day version and scrooge is quite a bit more sinister!
I went into this story unaware what direction it would take and I really enjoyed it, and the ending was a good wrap up!
Trigger warnings: slight gore, death
Dennis Smith –
Absolutely incredible “retelling” of Scrooge only much, much darker. This is the version of Scrooge that needs to be made into a movie! Well written and really entering story! I definitely need more of this series of retellings.
JackieT –
Absolutely amazing redo on Scrooge. I’d definitely love to see a movie. Well written, great interpretation of a classic. Don’t miss out.
Marlys –
This is a great retelling of the classic Scrooge. I enjoyed it. It is a great story
Eunice –
Afternoon, my darlings of darkness,
You’ve heard the tale of Scrooge—the man who loathed Christmas until three ghosts showed him the light, right? Well, forget that cheerful redemption arc. This isn’t that story. No, this is the tale of what happens when greed consumes you entirely, and the ghosts of your past are welcomed with open arms… willingly or not.
I absolutely devoured this little slice of Christmas horror! It’s a perfect way to kick off the season—if, like me, you prefer your festive cheer with a side of spine-chilling dread. Andre delivers an excellent plot twist that had me gasping (and maybe muttering some colorful language) by the end.
Read it, don’t read it—your call. Free will and all that.
Yours in madness,
E
Wendell –
Wow, What a ride. This story starts out like the original but then takes some dark, unexpected turns. I thoroughly enjoyed this. Well done Andre!
Mike Clarkson –
An awesome twist on a great classic.
Andre has knocked the ball out the park with this short tale.
His re-imagination of the story, to a short, modern day, gruesome take on Ebby and his adventure is nothing short of brilliant.
Loved this quick read…. More please.
Riann Fletcher –
A fun and twisted version of A Christmas Carol! Andre Gonzalez, never disappoints! I really liked the twist at the end.
Ken Lingenfelter –
A modern version of A Christmas Carol with a twist. A conclusion that was a huge surprise. Very entertaining and recommended.
Jeff Edwards –
Humbug does not disappoint
Reviewed in the United States on November 26, 2024
If you are a fan of this writer, this retelling is what he does best. If you are new to him, hang on, this is not the Humbug you grew up with. I love the way Scrooge is set in present day and loved the twist that comes with it and not held to the traditional redemption story. This dark story does not disappoint, that is the author’s strength. Join the rest of his followers and read his growing catalog of great reads. It is well worth it.
Stefanie Silvestri –
A modern day tale of A Christmas Carol with a twist. I love how this version is darker and more violent than the original. I enjoyed the twist at the end of the story. Definitely plan on reading more by this author.
Cristie –
This was a different take of the original Dickens’ version. And while it was similar to the premise of the original story, it brought in a lot of darkness. Don’t expect Ebenezer to visit with those same spirits. You’ll have to read it yourself to see the result of those visits. But be warned, this horror filled, plot twist retelling leaves you with none of the feel good comfort from the original story.
Steve –
So, a quick , short read about A Xmas Carol, with a difference. This was very good, I read it in one go, could not put it down. I was engrossed, couldn’t wait to see what happened next. Highly recommended
Justine Valentine –
I definitely wasn’t expecting what I just read. This story is about Scrooge and his hatred for Christmas. However, it has a slight twist to the story. I never thought I would need a story about Scrooge and what would occur had he went down a dark hole. His Christmas joy was one of viscousness and cruelty. I wasn’t the least disappointed. The twist at the end, however, was what ultimately had me surprised. Good Christmas horror story.
Clive willcocks –
I didn’t know what to expect as I really like the original Dickens story. I was very surprised that I throughly enjoyed it and would definitely recommend that you read it.
Kelli Martin –
This was the story of Ebenezer Scrooge but with an unexpected twist! This book was a fast read. Done in one sitting. I enjoy classic tales that are told with twists and turns. I love the darkness of this book. This author has a way of just pulling you into a story. Definitely helps that it is short!
Sonja –
If you think you know the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, think again! Andre Gonzalez’s Humbug flips the classic tale on its head, turning it into a dark and twisted horror story you won’t see coming. This modern-day retelling is packed with unexpected twists, a sinister Scrooge, and just the right amount of gore to keep things interesting. It’s short, fast-paced, and impossible to put down. If you’re into classic tales with a creepy edge, or just want a holiday story that’s anything but cheerful, this one’s for you. Trust me—you’ll be hooked
Amber –
What a wild ride start to finish! If you know me you probably know that I love a retelling of any genre and this was the perfect amount of utterly insane and jam packed with emotion, and realness I wasn’t expecting in a book of this size
Terry M –
An excellent, well written, modern day tale of a Christmas Carol with a twist. Highly recommended. I received an ARC copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.