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Revisit the beloved town of Mitford in this sweet new story about Father Tim, Cynthia, and the rest of your favorite people.
Note: this review first appeared in our October member newsletter. Not a member? Find out more here.
My Beloved (A Mitford Novel) by Jan Karon. Putnam’s, 2025. 432 pages.
- Reading Level: Adults
- Recommended For: Teens and adults, ages 16 and up
My Beloved is truly a novel for Mitford fans. If you’ve never visited Mitford, gotten to know Father Tim and Cynthia, or aren’t sure what “OMC” refers to, then you’d best begin with an earlier volume.
As the 15th (and final?) Mitford novel, this one reads much like a family reunion with all our favorite characters from the series. I’ve only read perhaps the first 5, and it’s been years, so I had a little trouble in the beginning keeping up. But I soon settled in, wondering where Father Tim’s misplaced love letter would end up, enjoying the picture of older couples still very much in love, noting the dynamics between adult children and their parents, and feeling very much like I was reading the equivalent of a warm cup of real cocoa.
As Gina Dalfonzo said in her review, this reads like a Hallmark movie (it’s even set at Christmas!) but it’s not as saccharine. Karon manages to populate her stories with people who have real issues, but she keeps it on the cozy side. Still, the very real life struggles ensure the books don’t stray too far into the “too sweet” side. My Beloved is perfect for a cozy read when you need a break from the holiday hubbub. Bonus: it will remind you frequently of God’s love in Father Tim’s gentle words.
Considerations:
- Sexuality: one character ponders whether she is a lesbian (very brief)
- Language: a very few instances of profanity.
Bottom Line: A warm cup of hot cocoa in book form.
Related Reading From Redeemed Reader
- Resource: We love a good cozy read. Check out our Cozy and Clever Books for Teens and Adults list.
- Review: Want to capture a little warmth this Christmas? Glad and Golden Hours is lovely and full of suggestions for warmly celebrating the real meaning of Christmas.
You may purchase My Beloved from Amazon
We received a free copy of this book from the publisher in return for a fair, unbiased review.
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