The Mitford Series of Jan Karon is one set of books that I read over and over, about once a year. I love the characters, the small town and the basic humanity of the stories.

The first and still the best in the series. ( )

This book is as good and entertaining as the first. One simply melds into the mindset and country of Mitford as you read. Lots of humor here as the author puts lots of pressure on Father Tim to refine him and get him out of his comfort zone. ( )

Although this book was a very fun read - rich, fulfilling and just as pleasant as the first one - I would have to say that I didn't think it was quite as good as the first.

But isn't that always the case with sequels? Everything that was so sharp and clear in the first book becomes a little muted with repetition in the second one. The problems that engrossed you so in the first book have been (necessarily) swapped for new ones in the second book, and perhaps these don't resonate with you quite as well as the first ones did.

Maybe some of the plot devices in this one more clearly announced themselves as sheer plot devices. Maybe a few situations seemed a little artificial, purely designed to move along the story or create conflict.

But did I enjoy the book? Yes. Will I purchase a copy of the third book? Yes.

And I can confidently say that if you enjoyed the first book, you'll enjoy this book as well. ( )

This is the second book in the Mitford Series, and if you liked the first book, you'll adore this one. Don't miss it. ( )

The second novel in the Mitford Series.

His attractive neighbor is tugging at his heartstrings. A wealthy widow is pursuing him with hot casseroles. And his red haired Cousin Meg has moved into the rectory, uninvited.

As you can see, Mitford's rector and lifelong bachelor, Father Tim, is in need of divine intervention.