It’s been eight years since the last book in Jan Karon’s Mitford series. I wish I had gone back and read the last one because there were a couple storylines that I don’t remember from the previous books. However, My Beloved brings back all the beloved characters, and reminds readers why this series is so popular. In only a few short paragraphs, Karon is able to re-introduce characters. There’s a depth to these characters. It’s good to return to Mitford, North Carolina, the small mountain village.
Thanksgiving is approaching, and Father Tim Kavanagh knows it’s about time to work on his Christmas list. Some of his friends and family are easy to shop for, but not his wife, Cynthia. When asked what she wants, Cynthia says she wants Tim to write her a letter. After a short time, he pours out his heart in two pages, writes “My Beloved” on the envelope, tucks it into a book, wraps it, and rushes from the house during an emergency. When he finally returns, the letter and book are gone.
Tim faces a traumatic dilemma. How can he rewrite a letter he wrote from his heart? And, where is his letter now? Who in Mitford has read the message meant for his beloved wife? Father Tim doesn’t know how his words will change some of the citizens of Mitford. One woman, who knows it wasn’t meant for her, also knew, “It was supposed to come into her life and work its mystifying power.”
This latest book reunites Dooley with his family members in a traumatic Thanksgiving scene that breaks hearts, and a Christmas celebration. It’s a revealing story that digs into Cynthia’s past, a drama readers never expected.
This is a story I don’t want to spoil for those who have waited eight years for the next Mitford account. It was worth waiting for. I cried over it more than I’ve cried over a book in quite a while. There were several funny chapters that made me laugh aloud. In other words, fans will appreciate this latest novel in the Mitford chronicle. It feels like a return home.
My Beloved by Jan Karon. G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2025. 432p.
FTC Full Disclosure – I received a galley through NetGalley from the publisher, with no expectation of a review.
Loved it! and you have written THE perfect review!
Thank you, Kaye! I loved it, too.
I’ve never heard of this series! Sounds like I’ve been missing some very good books. As I often say in my posts, I’d better start with the first one!
It’s hard to believe, Kim, that the first book, At Home in Mitford, came out in 1994. After that book, for years, Jan Karon’s books were on the bestseller lists. After an eight year absence, it will be interesting to see if this one lands on the lists.
It’s my favorite series of all times. I’ve read it 4 times.
It’s a wonderful series, Paula.
Back in the late 90s, an older couple from my church mentioned this series to me. They knew how much I loved reading. I was hooked. I’m looking forward to reading My Beloved.
Bonnie, This book was so popular with people from churches, although the religion is not overpowering in the books. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the new one.
I love MY BELOVED so much. I have read the entire series. I am 82 yrs old and I hope I do not have to wait another 8 yrs before she writes again……
This whole series is special, Lynda. I don’t think she’s going to wait to write the next one. I think that gap was just because of the death of her daughter.
Me too, Lynda – I’ll be 83 in April. I love Jan Karon’s books, and recommended My Beloved in my book club. Happy Reading!