Mitford read a like

If you were a fan of Jan Karon's Mitford series, you may like A Miracle for St. Cecilia's and the sequel A Gathering of Angel's. Perhaps not in quite the same league, this may fill the gap until the next Karon.

Book one is the story of Father James, whose parish is getting smaller and less able to support itself. As a result this small New England church is going to be closed by the bishop. As in Mitford the book is full of colourful characters, who live remarkable if everyday lives. The closing of the church and the event that might save it tie the book together. A quick fun read

The second book is the continuing story of St. Cecilia's and the retirement home for clergy that has just opened. I have to admit that the second book was a pleasant read, but I didn't enjoy it as much. I felt it relied a little too much on coincidences and miracles. Still it was a quick read and it was good to visit the characters again.