At Home in Mitford (#01 in Mitford Years Series)

Almost at the end of the series of 14 books, I feel as though I have met up with a special friend and spent time reliving precious memories. At Home in Mitford and its sequels are my favourite books of all time. Father Tim, his wife Cynthia, and every one of the other characters are painted with great skill as real people, warts and all, so believable that I wouldn't have been surprised if they knocked at my door and introduced themselves. The Gospel is woven into the story, with Scripture and many quotes from other authors, both familiar and little known. I did not expect that the books would have been released by a major secular publisher, and yet every one in the series is published by Penguin. I wholeheartedly recommend this series to anyone of any age, as a warm and compelling read, sensitive and funny yet sometimes keeping you on the edge of your seat. Jan Karon's books have even helped me grow as a Christian.