Preview of A Light in the Window Summary:

Once again, as in Karon's previous novel At Home in Mitford (1994; see separate entry), separation and loneliness are underlying themes. Father Tim's restful vacation in Ireland with his cousins Walter and Katherine has given him time to think about his future in Mitford. Still not ready to commit to marriage, he intends to give Cynthia a Waterford crystal vase and maybe his mother's amethyst brooch and accept her invitation to "go steady."

However, Cynthia's career interferes with such a casual relationship. During most of the novel, Cynthia lives in a New York city apartment and keeps in touch with Father Tim through love letters.

When Father Tim is with Cynthia, he knows how much he needs her and enjoys her company. When they are apart, he admits his emotional impotence and fear of marriage. He asks himself: Can a sixty-year-old bachelor combine marriage with the ministry? Will I...