For Christmas this year, my mother gave me Home to Holly Springs by Jan Karon. I have read and reread all of her books in the Mitford series and have looked forward to this next series about Father Tim.
As I enjoyed getting to know the characters of the peaceful village of Mitford, I stopped to think about the folks in my community that I often fail to appreciate as I fly through the busyness of each day. I also loved looking into Father Tim's heart, touched by his insecurities and inspired by the words that inspired him. I continually browse through Patches of Godlight and A Continual Feast, the two collections of quotes that he refers to throughout the series.
In Home to Holly Springs, Karon opens to us the early years of Father Tim. This book allows us to see the stark pain that underlies the insecurities that were alluded to in the Mitford books. I wasn't really prepared for that, but by showing us those hurts, exposing us to the mysteries, and letting us in on the revelations of his journey home, Karon gives me an even greater appreciation for her character. I look forward to her next book in this series.
