Excerpt from the book "My Beloved" by Jan Karon

New York Times bestselling author Jan Karon returns to the charming village of Mitford in her 15th novel featuring Father Tim Kavanagh, titled My Beloved (G.P. Putnam's Sons). Below is a selection from the book, offering a glimpse into Father Tims contemplative and heartwarming world.

Father Tim's Morning Ritual

With pen in hand and his notebook before him, Father Tim began his yearly November task: preparing his Christmas list. He had relocated from the French desk in his study to the kitchen island, now serving as a hub for letters, bills, his laptop, and a small library of favorite books. At the far end, he reserved space for cooking, reading aloud to Cynthia from Mary Oliver, Billy Collins, Wendell Berry, or poets he had long cherished, such as George Herbert and Wordsworth.

By 7:30 a.m., after prayers, a glucose check, his daily injection, and breakfast of oatmeal with honey and multigrain toast, Father Tim felt ready. Yet the expected flow of ideas for the Christmas list had not arrived, leaving him staring at the blank page.

Family and Reflection

Books had always been Father Tims companions, once offering solace during his bachelorhood. Now, his life was enriched by a family he had never imagined: his wife Cynthia, their adopted son Dooley, his family, and grandchildren Jack and Sadie. His heart, once cautious, had opened to the joys of giving and receiving love, a realization that had shaped his approach to life, relationships, and even Christmas planning.

Memories of family milestones, including the miraculous birth of Dooley's daughter Sadie and discovering a half-brother late in life, brought him gratitude. Each moment reinforced the importance of thoughtfully considering his holiday gifts, starting with those closest to him, and especially nurses, whose care he valued deeply.

Christmas Preparations

Cynthia entered the kitchen, her signature wisteria scent trailing behind her. Conversations flowed about poetry, childrens activities, and weekend meals. Amidst the everyday bustle, Father Tim found joy in the simple rituals: choosing gifts, writing love letters, and enjoying time with his family and dog, Gus.

Walking with Gus in the morning fog, he exchanged greetings with neighbors and schoolchildren, cherishing these small yet meaningful interactions. Back at home, he turned his attention to The List, reflecting on his mothers meticulous approach to Christmas gift-giving and striving to maintain that spirit of care and thoughtfulness.

Legacy of Love

Father Tims reflections reveal a life rich with love, faith, and dedication to others. The excerpt captures his gentle humor, the warmth of family life, and the enduring charm of Mitford, inviting readers to experience both the contemplative and celebratory moments of his world.

Excerpted from My Beloved by Jan Karon. Copyright 2025 by Jan Karon. All rights reserved. Reproduced with permission from G.P. Putnam's Sons.

Author: Riley Thompson