My Beloved Book Review
What a sweet and nostalgic Christmas story from Jan Karon! Admittedly, this was my first novel with these dearly loved characters, but it was so easy to see why they have been treasured by so many readers. Real and authentic is the only way of life around Mitford, which is a truly delightful small town.
In classic form, the power and appeal of My Beloved comes from masterful storytelling in the small details in people’s everyday lives. Each scene is powerful, not for a large, overarching conflict, but merely for the delight in the small moments in life: a retired priest learning to slow down and relax, a self-proclaimed spinster wondering if it’s worth opening her heart back up to possible love, a young boy begging for a horse for Christmas, and three old men trying to write a joke together over lunch. Kindness speaks loudly in such a quaint, little town, but it’s no easier to achieve. The humorous adventures of a wayward love letter start to stir cold hearts as winter sets in, and maybe, just maybe, this town is still young enough to change for the better.
Main Themes
Each character has their own theme, unique struggles in life, and an internal world they are doing their best to navigate. One repeated theme among several of the characters is senior citizens wondering what life looks like now that it’s time to slow down, step off the ladder, or put away the chainsaw. Life is different and that comes with questions.
Another theme is how often life falls into a lulling rhythm and how easy it is to fall into the motions without thinking too deeply about how actions impact families and communities. Sometimes it takes a little friction or an unexpected letter to shake things up and allow characters to realize that there’s a little bit more to life that is still to be discovered.
Faith Elements
God is everywhere in Mitford. Father Tim might not have his own parish anymore, but his warmth and kindness are still as vibrant as ever. Characters wrestle with what faith looks like as they age, with many recommitting to prayer or seeing themselves as beloved children of the heavenly Father.
Family Friendly Considerations
My Beloved is a family friendly novel and perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed magic to Christmas. And, of course, this Mitford novel will absolutely delight longtime fans of Jan Karon’s work.
Interested in Similar Reads?
If you loved My Beloved, then make sure to check out these titles as well!
- Meddling with Mistletoe by Liz Johnson
- The Christmas House by Beverly Lewis
