Title: Finding Festive Joy in Resting Scrooge Face
As the holidays rolled around this year, I found myself feeling less than jolly. So when I stumbled upon Resting Scrooge Face by Meghan Quinn, the whimsical cover and cheeky title instantly caught my eye. It promised a light-hearted escape infused with holiday spirit—something I desperately craved. Little did I know, this delightful Christmas novella would not only enchant me but also offer a comforting embrace that I didn’t know I needed.
Resting Scrooge Face opens with a poignant letter penned to Christmas itself. The narrator, Caleb Butler, grapples with the realization that his past love, the “one who got away,” is back in town to help renovate her childhood home. The juxtaposition of a Scrooge-esque heartbreak against the backdrop of holiday cheer sets the stage for both humor and introspection. Enter Nola Bisley, who believed her Christmas Eve would be filled with romance, only to find herself heartbroken and returning to the very town where she faced her first heartbreak. The instant connection between Caleb and Nola through their awkward, witty letters delivered by the local postman, Arden, provides a charming framework for a tale that explores loneliness, longing, and the unexpected joys of connection.
What struck me most about Quinn’s writing was her ability to blend humor with relatable emotion. The characters felt genuine, and their individual journeys were rich with vulnerability. Nola, who signs her letters with “Ho Ho No!” captures a sense of relatable disillusionment that many can identify with, especially during the holiday hustle. In a world brimming with cheer, Quinn invites us to acknowledge our feelings of sadness or disappointment, making it a heartfelt read for anyone who’s ever felt out of step with the season.
One particular line from Caleb’s letter stood out to me: “Maybe Christmas isn’t about the perfect tree or the hottest cocoa but the connections we forge.” This resonated deeply, particularly as I’ve navigated my own holiday grief this year. In the wake of losing my dear friend Pat—who would have found humor in my reading choices—it was a beautiful reminder that the essence of the holidays lies in the bonds we cherish. This novella’s ability to provoke such personal reflections while still providing levity is a testament to Quinn’s storytelling prowess.
The pacing of the book, lasting just 1 hour and 42 minutes, makes it the perfect cozy afternoon read—like sipping warm cocoa by the fire while draping a holiday blanket over your lap. Carly Robins and Aaron Shedlock’s narration adds a delightful touch, elevating the correspondence between Caleb and Nola with their vibrant voices that embody the characters’ charm and wit.
Resting Scrooge Face is not just for those who adore romance or Christmas tales; it’s for anyone who’s ever felt a little out of sorts this time of year. It’s an ode to rekindling joy, embracing vulnerability, and discovering that sometimes, magic can be found in unexpected places. For readers looking for a warm hug wrapped in festive cheer (even if you’re feeling more "Scrooge" than "Santa"), I wholeheartedly recommend diving into this novel. You might just find a piece of yourself within its pages, as I did.