In This Mountain by Jan Karon

Reviewed by Vicki Carver

Many readers have been anticipating the newest of Jan Karon’s books in the Mitford Series.  The newest one is called In This Mountain and is now available at all Highland County District Libraries.

Father Tim, an Episcopal reactor, has been retired for several years now and is unsettled about his future.  He and his wife, Cynthia, who is a children’s author, are scheduled to spend a year in a mission experience.  Father Tim is excited about their upcoming opportunity but also has an uneasy feeling about his life which is interfering with their plans.

Father Tim has been living with diabetes for many years and generally does fairly well in controlling it.  However, unforeseen occurrences greatly influence not only his health and well being but cause their mission plans to be put on hold.  With the framework in place, the plot weaves through many twists and turns which cause Father Tim to struggle with his faith, his future and his innermost feelings about himself.

As in other books in the Mitford Series, there is a wide variety of characters portrayed in In This Mountain.  Percy Mosely, the owner of “The Grill” restaurant is experimenting with a new, healthier menu after many years of serving traditional favorites, which has several townspeople upset.  Uncle Billy is struggling to find jokes which will humor Father Tim during his difficult times.  Cynthia is enjoying international fame as an author, which both pleases Father Tim and causes pangs of jealously.  Esther Bolick continues making her infamous orange marmalade cake even though more and more people are concerned about adhering to their low fat diets.  Also, there is a return from one of the earlier books in the Mitford Series of the “Man in the Attic” whose behavior has some people worried as well as intrigued.

In This Mountain is the sixth book in the Mitford Series and Karon plans to write one more which will complete the series.  This book is well written with a plot that keeps moving and evolving with characters who are interesting to read about.  It is a great book to either take on vacation or enjoy reading while relaxing on the porch on a warm summer day.