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Mitford Years #12
Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good
After five hectic years of retirement from Lord’s Chapel, Father Tim Kavanagh returns with his wife, Cynthia, from a so-called pleasure trip to the land of his Irish ancestors. While glad to be at home in Mitford, something is definitely missing: a pulpit. But when he’s offered one, he decides he doesn’t want it. Maybe he’s lost his passion.
His adopted son, Dooley, wrestles with his own passions—for the beautiful and gifted Lace Turner and his vision to become a successful country vet. Dooley’s brother, Sammy, still enraged by his mother’s abandonment, destroys one of Father Tim’s prized possessions. And Hope Murphy, owner of Happy Endings bookstore, struggles with the potential loss of her unborn child and her hard-won business.
All this as Wanda’s Feel Good Café opens, a romance catches fire through an Internet word game, their former mayor hatches a re-election campaign to throw the bums out, and the weekly Muse poses a probing inquiry: Does Mitford still take care of its own?
Millions of fans will applaud the chance to spend time, once more, in the often comic and utterly human presence of Jan Karon’s characters. Indeed, they have never been more sympathetic, bighearted, and engaging.Ìý
His adopted son, Dooley, wrestles with his own passions—for the beautiful and gifted Lace Turner and his vision to become a successful country vet. Dooley’s brother, Sammy, still enraged by his mother’s abandonment, destroys one of Father Tim’s prized possessions. And Hope Murphy, owner of Happy Endings bookstore, struggles with the potential loss of her unborn child and her hard-won business.
All this as Wanda’s Feel Good Café opens, a romance catches fire through an Internet word game, their former mayor hatches a re-election campaign to throw the bums out, and the weekly Muse poses a probing inquiry: Does Mitford still take care of its own?
Millions of fans will applaud the chance to spend time, once more, in the often comic and utterly human presence of Jan Karon’s characters. Indeed, they have never been more sympathetic, bighearted, and engaging.Ìý
511 pages, Hardcover
First published September 2, 2014
998 people are currently reading
7,139 people want to read
About the author
Jan Karon
130Ìýbooks2,579ÌýfollowersBorn Janice Meredith Wilson in 1937, Jan Karon was raised on a farm near Lenoir, North Carolina. Karon knew at a very early age that she wanted to be a writer. She penned her first novel when she was 10 years old, the same year she won a short-story contest organized by the local high school. Karon married as a teenager and had a daughter, Candace.
At 18, Karon began working as a receptionist for a Charlotte, N.C. advertising agency. She advanced in the company after leaving samples of her writing on the desk of her boss, who eventually noticed her talent. Karon went on to have a highly successful career in the field, winning awards for ad agencies from Charlotte to San Francisco. In time, she became a creative vice president at the high-profile McKinney & Silver, in Raleigh. While there, she won the prestigious Stephen Kelly Award, with which the Magazine Publishers of America honor the year's best print campaign.
During her years in advertising, Karon kept alive her childhood ambition to be an author. At the age of 50, she left her career in advertising and moved to Blowing Rock, North Carolina, to pursue that dream. After struggling—and failing—to get a novel underway, Karon awoke one night with a mental image of an Episcopal priest walking down a village street. She grew curious about him, and started writing. Soon, Karon was publishing weekly installments about Father Tim in her local newspaper, The Blowing Rocket, which saw its circulation double as a result. "It certainly worked for Mr. Dickens", says Karon.
The Father Tim stories became Karon's first Mitford novel, At Home in Mitford. That book has since been nominated three times (1996, 1997, and 1998) for an ABBY (American Booksellers Book of the Year Award), which honors titles that bookstore owners most enjoy recommending to customers, and the only book ever nominated for three consecutive years. The fourth Mitford novel, A New Song, won both the Christy and Gold Medallion awards for outstanding contemporary fiction in 2000. A Common Life, In This Mountain, and Shepherds Abiding have also won Gold Medallion awards. Out to Canaan was the first Mitford novel to hit the New York Times bestseller list; subsequent novels have debuted on the New York Times list, often landing the #1 spot.
Karon has also published two Christmas-themed books based on the Mitford series, The Mitford Snowmen and Esther's Gift, as well as Jan Karon's Mitford Cookbook and Kitchen Reader. Other Mitford books include Patches of Godlight: Father Tim's Favorite Quotes, a compilation of wit and wisdom, and A Continual Feast: Words of Comfort and Celebration, Collected by Father Tim. In addition, Karon has written two children's books, Miss Fannie's Hat and Jeremy: The Tale of an Honest Bunny, and an illustrated book for all ages, The Trellis and the Seed.
Karon says her character-driven work seeks to give readers a large, extended family they can call their own. Though Light From Heaven is officially the final novel in the series, there's yet another Mitford book in this prolific author. Karon urges her millions of ardent fans to look for the Mitford Bedside Companion, releasing in the Fall of 2006. "It has everything in it but the kitchen sink", says Karon.
At 18, Karon began working as a receptionist for a Charlotte, N.C. advertising agency. She advanced in the company after leaving samples of her writing on the desk of her boss, who eventually noticed her talent. Karon went on to have a highly successful career in the field, winning awards for ad agencies from Charlotte to San Francisco. In time, she became a creative vice president at the high-profile McKinney & Silver, in Raleigh. While there, she won the prestigious Stephen Kelly Award, with which the Magazine Publishers of America honor the year's best print campaign.
During her years in advertising, Karon kept alive her childhood ambition to be an author. At the age of 50, she left her career in advertising and moved to Blowing Rock, North Carolina, to pursue that dream. After struggling—and failing—to get a novel underway, Karon awoke one night with a mental image of an Episcopal priest walking down a village street. She grew curious about him, and started writing. Soon, Karon was publishing weekly installments about Father Tim in her local newspaper, The Blowing Rocket, which saw its circulation double as a result. "It certainly worked for Mr. Dickens", says Karon.
The Father Tim stories became Karon's first Mitford novel, At Home in Mitford. That book has since been nominated three times (1996, 1997, and 1998) for an ABBY (American Booksellers Book of the Year Award), which honors titles that bookstore owners most enjoy recommending to customers, and the only book ever nominated for three consecutive years. The fourth Mitford novel, A New Song, won both the Christy and Gold Medallion awards for outstanding contemporary fiction in 2000. A Common Life, In This Mountain, and Shepherds Abiding have also won Gold Medallion awards. Out to Canaan was the first Mitford novel to hit the New York Times bestseller list; subsequent novels have debuted on the New York Times list, often landing the #1 spot.
Karon has also published two Christmas-themed books based on the Mitford series, The Mitford Snowmen and Esther's Gift, as well as Jan Karon's Mitford Cookbook and Kitchen Reader. Other Mitford books include Patches of Godlight: Father Tim's Favorite Quotes, a compilation of wit and wisdom, and A Continual Feast: Words of Comfort and Celebration, Collected by Father Tim. In addition, Karon has written two children's books, Miss Fannie's Hat and Jeremy: The Tale of an Honest Bunny, and an illustrated book for all ages, The Trellis and the Seed.
Karon says her character-driven work seeks to give readers a large, extended family they can call their own. Though Light From Heaven is officially the final novel in the series, there's yet another Mitford book in this prolific author. Karon urges her millions of ardent fans to look for the Mitford Bedside Companion, releasing in the Fall of 2006. "It has everything in it but the kitchen sink", says Karon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,054 reviews
August 7, 2014
Back Home in Mitford
After a trip to Ireland, Father Tim and Cynthia are home in Mitford. The emotional experiences in Ireland, have left Father Tim feeling down. He still hasn't completely accepted retirement and acceptance is made more difficult because his doctor is retiring. Instead of staying Mitford, Hoppy is going off to do missionary work in the Sudan. Father Tim doesn't have long to be a curmudgeon. Soon he's involved in all the large and small crises in Mitford.
The book is filled with the delightful characters from the previous Mitford novels: Ester Cunningham, the mayor; Fanny Skinner and her sister Shirlene; Harley and Hèléne; plus Dooley's brothers; Father Tim's special buddies, Mule and J.C.; and Coot. It's very satisfying to have the whole gang back together. Although I enjoyed the trip to Ireland, it's good to be back in Mitford.
I've read all the Mitford books and each one ends up being a favorite. Although this one is very long, it's filled so much sadness, joy, and hope that it keeps you wanting to know how things will work out. I always feel warm when reading one of these books, like an honorary resident of Mitford. It's not a book of epic struggles, rather it's the small everyday trials and successes that make Karon's books so delightful. You feel like you can take a vacation from your life and enjoy interacting with friends in Mitford.
I reviewed this book for the Amazon Vine Program.
After a trip to Ireland, Father Tim and Cynthia are home in Mitford. The emotional experiences in Ireland, have left Father Tim feeling down. He still hasn't completely accepted retirement and acceptance is made more difficult because his doctor is retiring. Instead of staying Mitford, Hoppy is going off to do missionary work in the Sudan. Father Tim doesn't have long to be a curmudgeon. Soon he's involved in all the large and small crises in Mitford.
The book is filled with the delightful characters from the previous Mitford novels: Ester Cunningham, the mayor; Fanny Skinner and her sister Shirlene; Harley and Hèléne; plus Dooley's brothers; Father Tim's special buddies, Mule and J.C.; and Coot. It's very satisfying to have the whole gang back together. Although I enjoyed the trip to Ireland, it's good to be back in Mitford.
I've read all the Mitford books and each one ends up being a favorite. Although this one is very long, it's filled so much sadness, joy, and hope that it keeps you wanting to know how things will work out. I always feel warm when reading one of these books, like an honorary resident of Mitford. It's not a book of epic struggles, rather it's the small everyday trials and successes that make Karon's books so delightful. You feel like you can take a vacation from your life and enjoy interacting with friends in Mitford.
I reviewed this book for the Amazon Vine Program.
April 27, 2015
This has been such a beautiful series and it has been oh so easy to get attached to all the delightful characters of which there are many! All of 's books read like diaries of the day to day lives of Father Tim and the residents of Mitford. This one is an absolute gem but sadly the way it ends seems to indicate it may be the last one. I really hope it is not.
September 18, 2015
Let me clarify. I wasn't all that fired up to return to Mitford. I liked Mitford well enough but I was afraid it would be a lesser Mitford. But here I am giving it 5 stars and for purely emotional reasons. Number 1 the title is worth 5 stars. Number 2 it is the first book I have finished in my new home, a home which feels like Somewhere Safe. I sat on my deck overlooking the woods, with hummingbirds buzzing in my ear,a gentle breeze blowing across the bluest sky, reading this book in a home that entered my life from nowhere. I did not see this Somewhere Safe coming. I know God is good all the time but I had kind of gotten used to the heavier sorrows of life over the past two years. How could I be reading this book in such a place? I do not know how these blessings occur. I just read a page and watched the birds and cried and thanked the Lord.
This book, this place. 5 stars. "...all shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well."
This book, this place. 5 stars. "...all shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well."
January 8, 2019
I have found that the Mitford books serve as respite from the anxious state of the world for me. It's hard to read one and not finish with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation for the kindness of people.
This one offers that sense of possibility and hope. It's not as well written as the first ones in the series. A few story lines were started and then dropped.....I had the sense that Karon had so many storylines to pursue that she lost track of some of them (a good editor would have caught this).
A book worth reading, but not quite as good as previous offerings.
This one offers that sense of possibility and hope. It's not as well written as the first ones in the series. A few story lines were started and then dropped.....I had the sense that Karon had so many storylines to pursue that she lost track of some of them (a good editor would have caught this).
A book worth reading, but not quite as good as previous offerings.
September 22, 2014
Ms. Karon hit it out of the ball park once again.
August 18, 2014
It has been three long years of waiting and wondering about what Father Tim and the other residents of Mitford have been up to. But the suspense is finally over. With the publication of Somewhere Safe With Somebody Good we finally have our passport into the lovely town that we would all like to call home.
I was reading the book a few days ago while I was in a waiting room. The person next to me made a comment about the thickness of the book and asked what it was about. After taking a second to gather my thoughts I said that it was a novel about the beautiful ebb and flow of everyday life in a small town.
What I left out was that it is a story of ordinary people who draw strength from each other. Of course life in a tiny community can be just as irritating as it is soothing. Anyone who has ever lived in a small town can attest to that fact. But for me I'd love to live in Mitford. Wouldn't it be fun to have lunch with JC, Mule and Father Tim? Maybe become an honorary member of the Turkey Club! I couldn't wait to get my copy of the Mitford Muse. Such a quaint weekly paper, unless the story is about you and the facts aren't quite right.
Of the ten books in this series so far, this is my favorite. Father Tim is no longer a priest at Lord's Chapel, but that doesn't mean his calling to minister has been taken away. In fact I would say that by retiring from the parish he expanded his flock instead of decreased it. This is one of those perfect books that makes you tear up and then laugh. It makes you roll your eyes and then a few pages later you'll be sighing with contentment.
I can hardly wait for you to read the portion that the title comes from . . . truly beautiful. But my absolute favorite saying from this book is "Love is an act of endless forgiveness." And that my friend is what we should all be about.
So put your feet up, snuggle in and journey back to the lovely town of Mitford. Where you will be inspired to live your life loving others because of the One who loved us first.
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
I was reading the book a few days ago while I was in a waiting room. The person next to me made a comment about the thickness of the book and asked what it was about. After taking a second to gather my thoughts I said that it was a novel about the beautiful ebb and flow of everyday life in a small town.
What I left out was that it is a story of ordinary people who draw strength from each other. Of course life in a tiny community can be just as irritating as it is soothing. Anyone who has ever lived in a small town can attest to that fact. But for me I'd love to live in Mitford. Wouldn't it be fun to have lunch with JC, Mule and Father Tim? Maybe become an honorary member of the Turkey Club! I couldn't wait to get my copy of the Mitford Muse. Such a quaint weekly paper, unless the story is about you and the facts aren't quite right.
Of the ten books in this series so far, this is my favorite. Father Tim is no longer a priest at Lord's Chapel, but that doesn't mean his calling to minister has been taken away. In fact I would say that by retiring from the parish he expanded his flock instead of decreased it. This is one of those perfect books that makes you tear up and then laugh. It makes you roll your eyes and then a few pages later you'll be sighing with contentment.
I can hardly wait for you to read the portion that the title comes from . . . truly beautiful. But my absolute favorite saying from this book is "Love is an act of endless forgiveness." And that my friend is what we should all be about.
So put your feet up, snuggle in and journey back to the lovely town of Mitford. Where you will be inspired to live your life loving others because of the One who loved us first.
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
August 15, 2014
For those who loved the first nine novels in the Mitford series this novel is a jewel. For those who have never read Jan Karon's Mitford series, there is no reason not to start here. When I received this book to read and review, I was surprised to see that it has over 500 pages--much longer than any of the other books. What could the author have to say in such length? Plenty. There is not a slow or unnecessary passage here, even the parts that review the story's past. All the characters and their stories are important, and, of course, Father Tim ties it all together.
September 8, 2014
A pleasant read and nice to get caught up with the Mitford characters but just no dramatic tension, at least for this reader. It seemed somewhat lackluster no matter how pleasant.
August 26, 2014
An unprecedented act on my part: I jumped right in, deep into a series, without having yet read any of the series' earlier books, which I'm aware are meant to be read in sequential order. Additionally, Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good is the first book whatsoever that I've read by Jan Karon. Perhaps this act of mine is somewhat of a violation against the International Bookworm's Unofficial Code or something, but, really, how could I pass up a novel with such a title when it came across my path?
A possible plus here is that my rating for this novel isn't riding in on the coattails of any previous/established love for this series or its characters, since I came in absolutely new to Father Tim Kavanagh and the people of small-town Mitford.
I can't tell you at exactly what point I became so engrossed in this novel that I wished I could swallow it whole, but it must have been somewhere during the first fourth of the book. I loved Karon's deft style and pacing, the chance to catch woven glimpses into her well-written characters' lives. Their joys, their hardships, and their questions are real; I could've hugged good ol' Coot Hendrick, and I made a delightfully failed attempt at restraining my laughter while encountering J.C. and Mule's banter while I was reading in public. (Albeit I did keep my chortling as quiet as was possible, in the moment.)
Do I intend to go back and read more of the Mitford Years series? Yes! Though, please pardon me, I still shan't guarantee the order I may read them in.
____________
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher through the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program for an honest review.
A possible plus here is that my rating for this novel isn't riding in on the coattails of any previous/established love for this series or its characters, since I came in absolutely new to Father Tim Kavanagh and the people of small-town Mitford.
I can't tell you at exactly what point I became so engrossed in this novel that I wished I could swallow it whole, but it must have been somewhere during the first fourth of the book. I loved Karon's deft style and pacing, the chance to catch woven glimpses into her well-written characters' lives. Their joys, their hardships, and their questions are real; I could've hugged good ol' Coot Hendrick, and I made a delightfully failed attempt at restraining my laughter while encountering J.C. and Mule's banter while I was reading in public. (Albeit I did keep my chortling as quiet as was possible, in the moment.)
Do I intend to go back and read more of the Mitford Years series? Yes! Though, please pardon me, I still shan't guarantee the order I may read them in.
____________
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher through the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program for an honest review.
August 6, 2019
I have read everyone of the Mitford books and the subsequent 2 Father Tim novels. It has been awhile since I "was" in Mitford and although I felt as if I was back home visiting friends although my addled brain had trouble remembering names and connections of secondary characters.
Karon's writing style does not help this old gal. Her chapters are divided into bite-sized sections, but we often enter a new section without clear (to me) indication of who exactly is talking or conducting business.
Karon also seems to have put a lot more spirituality in this book than I recall in previous volumes. I felt force-fed by the end of the book.
Karon's writing style does not help this old gal. Her chapters are divided into bite-sized sections, but we often enter a new section without clear (to me) indication of who exactly is talking or conducting business.
Karon also seems to have put a lot more spirituality in this book than I recall in previous volumes. I felt force-fed by the end of the book.
September 25, 2014
I've read all the previous books and enjoyed them. I found this one to be a bit long and confusing trying to tie all the earlier characters into this book. I do enjoy the Father Tim character, he's a good man.
July 6, 2017
This book was exceptional! I have read it three times now, and it only gets better each time I read it. It is definitely one of my favorite books, which is saying a lot, as I have read so many books and it is so hard to pick a favorite. I have read the whole Mitford series, and they are all just amazing. The characters feel so homelike, and it is incredibly well written. The storyline with Sammy is amazing and heart-wrenching (in a good way), as is the storyline with Hope and Scott Murphy. Definitely go check this out! Five stars!
September 9, 2014
This may be one of my favorite book titles ever. After all, isn’t it what we all wish for? And if you’re a Father Tim fan, you’ll know that he has, in fact, gotten this wish. He’s finally back in Mitford, the idyllic North Carolina mountain town that is the scene of the first nine books in the series, with his lovely wife Cynthia and the eccentric cast of characters we’ve come to know so well. But although he’s back at home, Father Tim’s life is not the same. He’s no longer the rector of Lord’s Chapel, the local Episcopal church, and he must now figure out how he wants to spend his time in retirement. Without his calling, he’s a bit at sea, but as always, somehow events conspire to help him find his way.
Karon has an incredible gift for illuminating the sacred in the everyday, and she does it with her usual brilliance in this book. Ordinary life becomes something greater. Meaningful quotes appear on the windows of the town bookstore. A visit to the Children’s Hospital precipitates a turnaround in the delinquent behavior of one of Father Tim’s teenage charges. A wayward priest earns forgiveness from his flock. Karon’s trademark gentle humor is also ever-present � one recurring theme is the opening of a new spray-tan machine at Fancy Skinner’s beauty salon, which goes over like gangbusters, much to Father Tim’s dismay.
Karon’s books have definite Christian themes (they’re about an Episcopal priest, after all), so maybe they’re not for everyone. Yet she’s not preachy � her stories are gentle, uplifting and sometimes even magical. For me, the Mitford series helps me get back in touch with my own faith, and reminds me of the power of simple human kindness. Father Tim reminds one of his former parishioners to “be grateful in all things,� something for us all to remember. Welcome back to Mitford, Father Tim. We’re so glad to have you there!
Karon has an incredible gift for illuminating the sacred in the everyday, and she does it with her usual brilliance in this book. Ordinary life becomes something greater. Meaningful quotes appear on the windows of the town bookstore. A visit to the Children’s Hospital precipitates a turnaround in the delinquent behavior of one of Father Tim’s teenage charges. A wayward priest earns forgiveness from his flock. Karon’s trademark gentle humor is also ever-present � one recurring theme is the opening of a new spray-tan machine at Fancy Skinner’s beauty salon, which goes over like gangbusters, much to Father Tim’s dismay.
Karon’s books have definite Christian themes (they’re about an Episcopal priest, after all), so maybe they’re not for everyone. Yet she’s not preachy � her stories are gentle, uplifting and sometimes even magical. For me, the Mitford series helps me get back in touch with my own faith, and reminds me of the power of simple human kindness. Father Tim reminds one of his former parishioners to “be grateful in all things,� something for us all to remember. Welcome back to Mitford, Father Tim. We’re so glad to have you there!
February 11, 2024
I enjoyed this one, because I’m so glad the main characters are back in Mitford. There are a few new characters and some excitement brewing in different families.
Reading this series with my sister, which is always fun. Not one of my very favorites of the series but a solid volume.
I just love the kids in this series, who needed someone responsible to step into their lives and “man up� (or “woman up� as the case may be ). It’s gratifying to see good things happen to kids who got stuck in bad situations through no fault of their own. That’s probably my favorite aspect of this series, in total, so far.
And John McDonogh is back on the audio, which is a huge win as well.
Reading this series with my sister, which is always fun. Not one of my very favorites of the series but a solid volume.
I just love the kids in this series, who needed someone responsible to step into their lives and “man up� (or “woman up� as the case may be ). It’s gratifying to see good things happen to kids who got stuck in bad situations through no fault of their own. That’s probably my favorite aspect of this series, in total, so far.
And John McDonogh is back on the audio, which is a huge win as well.
March 6, 2018
I have read all of the Mitford novels and this one does not disappoint, unlike "In the Company of Others" which preceded this one. That book, set entirely in Ireland, was positively awful and made no sense. I am glad that Karon has returned to Mitford and am looking forward to the next installment.
September 9, 2014
I'm so excited. I'm going home to Mitford!
September 6, 2014
I told myself I’d go slow. No big gulps. Savor the words. Take my time. Reflect. Enjoy.
And I did…the first 36 hours. But last night I had three hours open and three hours left of reading. Turn the light off at 10:00? C’est impossible!
Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good is the best book Jan Karon has written. Like a master chef with discerning taste, Karon has adjusted the flavor of her writing so it is not too sweet, not too bitter, not too peppery, not too bright; but the perfect combination of spices, textures, and taste. There are overtones, undertones, aromas, and the kind of finish that both satisfies and makes you yearn for more.
Laughter plays peek-a-boo throughout the text. Last night I read a section to my husband that required a working knowledge of both The Cat in the Hat and Poe’s The Raven to fully understand the rich humor. When Curt roared at the punchline, I loved him more than I had the minute before. There is humor on the surface, too: the spray tan provides more than a few guffaws.
There are three scenes that sing to the deep recesses of my soul. They, alone, are why I know I will be reading this book again and again. And, perhaps, again.
Jan Karon nourishes. Literary quotes to ponder, authors and titles to explore, music to review, idioms to delight in. And a bookstore—Happy Endings—that plays a big part in the plot. There are also problems that can’t be fixed, people that fail, people that never fail to irritate.
If you’ve read certain kinds of Christian fiction, you are familiar with what I call the two-dimensional didactic. The pasted-on-the-end moral message, the perfect hero and wicked villain, the thin patina of plot splashed on the important main point. Gag. No. Thank. You.
When you read Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good, you learn without any awareness that you are being taught. The subjects are wide ranging: diabetes, exercise, how to help the bereaved (be there), how to say ‘no�, how to cope with retirement, how to give and receive grace.
I love the map of Mitford. I love these phrases:
the benediction of her father’s deep tenderness /
a selfish view that masquerades as noble /
that they would be shielded in their joy /
his favorite tryst for plain talk /
under the stairs, a good place to have a cry /
My favorite phrase describes this book: a plenitude of grace.
And I did…the first 36 hours. But last night I had three hours open and three hours left of reading. Turn the light off at 10:00? C’est impossible!
Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good is the best book Jan Karon has written. Like a master chef with discerning taste, Karon has adjusted the flavor of her writing so it is not too sweet, not too bitter, not too peppery, not too bright; but the perfect combination of spices, textures, and taste. There are overtones, undertones, aromas, and the kind of finish that both satisfies and makes you yearn for more.
Laughter plays peek-a-boo throughout the text. Last night I read a section to my husband that required a working knowledge of both The Cat in the Hat and Poe’s The Raven to fully understand the rich humor. When Curt roared at the punchline, I loved him more than I had the minute before. There is humor on the surface, too: the spray tan provides more than a few guffaws.
There are three scenes that sing to the deep recesses of my soul. They, alone, are why I know I will be reading this book again and again. And, perhaps, again.
Jan Karon nourishes. Literary quotes to ponder, authors and titles to explore, music to review, idioms to delight in. And a bookstore—Happy Endings—that plays a big part in the plot. There are also problems that can’t be fixed, people that fail, people that never fail to irritate.
If you’ve read certain kinds of Christian fiction, you are familiar with what I call the two-dimensional didactic. The pasted-on-the-end moral message, the perfect hero and wicked villain, the thin patina of plot splashed on the important main point. Gag. No. Thank. You.
When you read Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good, you learn without any awareness that you are being taught. The subjects are wide ranging: diabetes, exercise, how to help the bereaved (be there), how to say ‘no�, how to cope with retirement, how to give and receive grace.
I love the map of Mitford. I love these phrases:
the benediction of her father’s deep tenderness /
a selfish view that masquerades as noble /
that they would be shielded in their joy /
his favorite tryst for plain talk /
under the stairs, a good place to have a cry /
My favorite phrase describes this book: a plenitude of grace.
August 6, 2023
2023 re-read (audiobook with John MacDonough - 10 stars!) Ditto to the below.
I loved, loved, loved my trip back to Mitford with Father Tim and Cynthia. They are like family now, and Mitford is like a hometown that I've never been to. I hope Jan Karon never stops writing about Father Tim.
As a person who is attempting to age gracefully, I appreciate Fr. Tim's wrestling matches with the meaning of retirement, and the drawbacks of an aging body. It's wonderful to see this aging priest, blessed with a wife and children who have chosen him, reaping the benefits of home, family, love, and the veneration of a community.
A must-read if you are an honorary citizen of Mitford, and a fan of Fr. Tim and Cynthia!
I loved, loved, loved my trip back to Mitford with Father Tim and Cynthia. They are like family now, and Mitford is like a hometown that I've never been to. I hope Jan Karon never stops writing about Father Tim.
As a person who is attempting to age gracefully, I appreciate Fr. Tim's wrestling matches with the meaning of retirement, and the drawbacks of an aging body. It's wonderful to see this aging priest, blessed with a wife and children who have chosen him, reaping the benefits of home, family, love, and the veneration of a community.
A must-read if you are an honorary citizen of Mitford, and a fan of Fr. Tim and Cynthia!
April 12, 2015
I don't quite know why I like this series so much but it just warms my heart to read the newest installment in the Mitford series. Father Tim and Cynthia are back from Ireland and he is still having trouble adjusting to retirement. Be careful what you wish for because quite soon Father's Tim's plate is overflowing. This is just a sweet series that makes me feel great.
November 8, 2014
Horrendously boring and a tedious read. Struggled through it and eventually gave up. Yaaaaawn!
September 27, 2014
The Father Tim series by Jan Karon is lovely - start at the beginning because you want to get to know the characters. They become part of your extended family. The first time I listened to a Father Tim novel, I thought it might be too sweet, too religious, too smarmy - boy was I wrong. The books are delightful and this one is the icing on the cake. Karon does a wonderful job of reminding you of things that have happened in the past - where you say to yourself, oh yeah I remember that, without rewriting and rehashing the earlier books and story lines.
Read and enjoy - relax and let yourself become a part of the Mitford community.
Read and enjoy - relax and let yourself become a part of the Mitford community.
August 30, 2014
I was so glad to get back to Mitford. Jan Karon's Mitford books are such a welcoming read! I read this as part of Penguin Books First to Read program so it was an advance copy.
When old friends meet again after being apart, they seem to be able to pick up a conversation as if no time at all has elapsed. Such is true with Karon's book, Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good. All the "old" characters are back along with a few new ones. Mitford fans will definitely not be disappointed in this book.
As a side note, I would so love to have a Happy Endings book store in my community!
When old friends meet again after being apart, they seem to be able to pick up a conversation as if no time at all has elapsed. Such is true with Karon's book, Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good. All the "old" characters are back along with a few new ones. Mitford fans will definitely not be disappointed in this book.
As a side note, I would so love to have a Happy Endings book store in my community!
September 12, 2014
It doesn't get better than the Mitford series. Seriously, it's my absolute favorite. Several hundred pages of Father Tim is never enough. I'm always left wanting more! Thanks to Jan Karon for creating a world that I never want to leave.
October 10, 2014
Apparently this is part of a series with loyal followers. I will not be among them. I found this book corny, slow and heavy handed religiously.
September 8, 2024
What a joy to read this series again. Funny, spiritual, romantic, and totally satisfying.
January 26, 2015
Though I have read all the Mitford series, it’s been quite a while since I read the last one. Initially this novel with its cast of characters felt rather busy and it took me a little while to click back into who everyone was. Once I did, it was being back with family. I loved spending time with Tim and Cynthia Kavanagh and the town of Mitford every chance I got.
Now returned from Ireland and back in Mitford, Timothy Kavanagh is not exactly dealing well with retirement. But then, in the way of life, things change and he suddenly finds that even though he is no longer the priest at Lord’s Chapel, his life is still taken up with other people, their joys and their problems. And that draws the reader into them too.
I love the way he interacts with wife Cynthia and also with his adopted son Dooley and his brothers Harley and Sammy. I’m not sure I could have responded the way Tim did to some of Sammy’s antics, but that is the person he is. Tim is a man of faith that is lived out in life. One of the quotes in this novel that really sums him up is ‘Love is an act of endless forgiveness.� But I really could have taken any number of quotes from various places. Any reader will also love the quotes about books and reading that appear on the bookshop window. Even though there is sadness, there is also gentle humour. This is a book about love and hope. The people are warm and invested in each other’s lives. It is a feel good book and what’s wrong with that anyway?
I loved this book. It is gentle and uplifting and left me feeling better for having read it. Those who haven’t read the earlier books may find it confusing, as a friend of mine did, to start here. So treat yourself to getting to know these characters from the beginning and follow them though to this book as I have. It will be a much more rewarding experience.
Now returned from Ireland and back in Mitford, Timothy Kavanagh is not exactly dealing well with retirement. But then, in the way of life, things change and he suddenly finds that even though he is no longer the priest at Lord’s Chapel, his life is still taken up with other people, their joys and their problems. And that draws the reader into them too.
I love the way he interacts with wife Cynthia and also with his adopted son Dooley and his brothers Harley and Sammy. I’m not sure I could have responded the way Tim did to some of Sammy’s antics, but that is the person he is. Tim is a man of faith that is lived out in life. One of the quotes in this novel that really sums him up is ‘Love is an act of endless forgiveness.� But I really could have taken any number of quotes from various places. Any reader will also love the quotes about books and reading that appear on the bookshop window. Even though there is sadness, there is also gentle humour. This is a book about love and hope. The people are warm and invested in each other’s lives. It is a feel good book and what’s wrong with that anyway?
I loved this book. It is gentle and uplifting and left me feeling better for having read it. Those who haven’t read the earlier books may find it confusing, as a friend of mine did, to start here. So treat yourself to getting to know these characters from the beginning and follow them though to this book as I have. It will be a much more rewarding experience.
October 18, 2024
2024 review: It's always great to revisit Mitford. This second time through I was deeply touched by middle-aged Coot Hendrick's reading lessons and the deep joy he felt in sounding out the Dr. Seuss books.
2015 review: Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good continues the gentle saga of Father Tim Kavanagh as he tries to find his niche after retiring from pastoring Lord's Chapel. His wife Cynthia suggests they rekindle their relationship by writing love letters. Her description of their marriage in one of these letters gives the book its title.
Unlike most modern authors who portray faith in fiction, Karon manages to portray Christianity without all the hokiness. Father Tim is not overly good or sweet. He's a man with doubts and weaknesses, but he humbly goes forward reaching out to those in Mitford who need help. He lives out the Abraham Verghese quote: "We are all fixing what is broken. It is the task of a lifetime." (p. 421) The folks in Mitford are at various stages of brokenness and healing, all in need of grace. But to keep things from getting too dismal, some of the characters are hilariously funny.
A worthy addition to the Mitford chronicles.
2015 review: Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good continues the gentle saga of Father Tim Kavanagh as he tries to find his niche after retiring from pastoring Lord's Chapel. His wife Cynthia suggests they rekindle their relationship by writing love letters. Her description of their marriage in one of these letters gives the book its title.
Unlike most modern authors who portray faith in fiction, Karon manages to portray Christianity without all the hokiness. Father Tim is not overly good or sweet. He's a man with doubts and weaknesses, but he humbly goes forward reaching out to those in Mitford who need help. He lives out the Abraham Verghese quote: "We are all fixing what is broken. It is the task of a lifetime." (p. 421) The folks in Mitford are at various stages of brokenness and healing, all in need of grace. But to keep things from getting too dismal, some of the characters are hilariously funny.
A worthy addition to the Mitford chronicles.
August 21, 2014
I was lucky to have an Advanced Copy to reacquaint myself with all the Mitford friends I've grown to love over the years. Karon doesn't disappoint with the further adventures of Father Tim and Mitford's best. Father Tim may not have a pulpit to occupy but the challenges and troubles of the small North Carolina town always seem to find him anyway. Loved it. In order to fully appreciate the charactors in this book be sure to read the entire series. You will not regret the time and most likely will feel remorse when you are finished.
April 2, 2019
Father Tim retired from the priesthood; it's been five years. He was happy to be home in Mitford.
He was asked to return to the pulpit,He just couldn't. He loved the freedom of retirement .
He was still a spiritual adviser to all in Mitford and always there to lend a helping hand.
A few days a week he volunteered at the book story. He helped with the decorating for Christmas.
A leader in the community, he was looked up to. He was the energy to get things done around town.
A wonderful story.
He was asked to return to the pulpit,He just couldn't. He loved the freedom of retirement .
He was still a spiritual adviser to all in Mitford and always there to lend a helping hand.
A few days a week he volunteered at the book story. He helped with the decorating for Christmas.
A leader in the community, he was looked up to. He was the energy to get things done around town.
A wonderful story.
October 21, 2014
Ready for this new book to be out!
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