In This Mountain (The Mitford Years, Book 7) [Paperback]

Jan Karon (Author), Donna Kae Nelson (Illustrator)

Book Description

Release date: April 29, 2003

Father Tim and Cynthia have been at home in Mitford for three years since returning from Whitecap Island.

In the little town that's home-away-from-home to millions of readers, life hums along as usual. Dooley looks toward his career as a vet; Joe Ivey and Fancy Skinner fight a haircut price war that takes no prisoners; and Percy steps out on a limb with a risky new menu item at the Main Street Grill.

Though Father Tim dislikes change, he dislikes retirement even more. As he and Cynthia gear up for a year-long ministry across the state line, a series of events sends shock waves through his faith-and the whole town of Mitford.

In her seventh novel in the bestselling Mitford Years series, Jan Karon delivers surprises of every kind, including the return of the man in the attic and an ending that no one in Mitford will ever forget.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

Father Tim Kavanagh and his wife, Cynthia, return from Whitecap Island to "the little town with the big heart" in Jan Karon's seventh novel in the bestselling Mitford series, In This Mountain. Retirement holds challenges Father Tim hasn't anticipated, and even as Cynthia's career as a children's book author and illustrator brings her new accolades, he finds himself dogged by health troubles and dissatisfaction with the way his life is turning out. However, the beloved villagers of Mitford are on hand to offer support and humor through every crisis, and a few new characters are introduced to keep interest in the series fresh. Throughout the tale, Karon folds in themes of grace and forgiveness, and offers hope for even the most difficult situations. Fans will be delighted to find that this installment of the series is full of the engaging descriptions and charming depiction of life in Mitford that first won Karon the loyalty of legions of readers. --Cindy Crosby --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

From Publishers Weekly

Fans of Mitford, N.C., will rejoice over this anticipatedfull-length seventh installment in the bestselling series, especiallythose disappointed with its shorter, rather lightweight predecessor, ACommon Life. Although this offering is permeated with Karon'strademark charm, the plot isn't all sweetness and light. Three yearshave passed since Father Tim Kavanagh and his wife, Cynthia, returnedto Mitford from Whitecap Island, and depression and discontent aregnawing away at the good cleric as he faces the big "7-0." AsCynthia's career reaches new heights, Father Tim makes some personaldecisions that lead to tragedy. But never fear - although Karonstrikes some somber notes, she avoids becoming heavy-handed. Devotedreaders will find the same appealing characters and enchanting writingthat originally won them to the series. edith Mallory is up to her oldtricks, plotting her seduction of Father Tim, and haircut wars arefought between barber Joe Ivey and stylist Fancy Skinner. Convictedjewel thief George Gaynor returns to the series after his release fromjail; something new is cooking down at the Main Street Grill; andDooley Barlowe learns the ropes of romance even as he agonizes over asearch that may turn up his lost father and brothers. Karon more fullyfleshes out two of the series' minor characters, Helene Pringle andHope Winchester, and introduces newcomer Millie Tipton, awise-cracking Methodist preacher who fits comfortably into townlife. Homespun dialogue, fresh and lively descriptions, laugh-out-loudmoments and poignant scenes mark the heartfelt book, which is a happyreunion for Mitford devotees.
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 382 pages
• Publisher: Penguin Books; Reissue edition (April 29, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0142002585
• ISBN-13: 978-0142002582
• Product Dimensions: 5 x 0.8 x 7.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (144 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #63,968 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Jan Karon is the author of the bestselling series of nine Mitford novels featuring Father Timothy Kavanagh, an Episcopal priest, and the fictional village of Mitford. Set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Karon's Mitford books include At Home in Mitford; A Light in the Window; These High, Green Hills; Out to Canaan; A New Song; A Common Life: The Wedding Story; In This Mountain; Shepherd's Abiding; and Light from Heaven. The Father Tim Novels include "Home to Holly Springs" and last fall's release of "In the Company of Others," set in County Sligo, Ireland. There are over 40 million Mitford and Father Tim novels, childrens books, and CDs in print.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

52 of 52 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Can I Move There? June 19, 2002

By Elaine S. Reitz VINE™ VOICE

Format:Hardcover

I was so sad to finish this book! What a delight: such an optimistic and hopeful view of life. I almost turned to the first page and started reading it over!
Father Tim and Cynthia have moved back to Mitford after their stint on Whitecap. They are happy to be back, but Fr. Tim is dissatisfied with retired life. He doesn't know what to do with himself. He wrestles with his faith and with the direction his life is turning. Cynthia has received major accolades for her children's books. The Man In The Attic is back in Mitford, Dooley is lovesick, and the "Turkey Club" is meeting at The Grill as always.
With a few surprises along the way and an ending that will leave you gasping, Jan Karon delivers the most notable Mitford story yet! All the characters we have come to love are still in Mitford, and we love them even more.

26 of 26 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars the best yet! May 30, 2002

By A Customer

Format:Hardcover

This is the 7th book in Jan Karon's wonderful Mitford series, and it was definitely worth the wait. This one displays more insight and emotion into the characters, particularly Father Tim, as he deals with several tough issues. But there is still the same small town humor that we've all come to know and love in this series, and I again finished another Mitford book wishing I could visit this place and meet these eccentric, loveable, and strong characters. Pick this book up today - I read it in 2 days and could barely put it down. You won't be disappointed, and will hopefully find your faith stretched as a result!

25 of 25 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Outstanding! February 7, 2004

By A Customer

Format:Paperback

Very much like A LIGHT IN THE WINDWOW, I found this book equally as enjoyable. Even if you haven't lived in a small town you'll be able to "get into" this book. There's so much there. It reminds me in many ways of McCrae's BARK OF THE DOGWOOD or even TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD in its writing and well-drawn characters. This is a timely and moving tale, sure to please.

Also recommended: McCrae's BARK OF THE DOGWOOD and I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS