Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
28(28%)
4 stars
37(37%)
3 stars
35(35%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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This series has another remarkable book that delves into numerous real life issues. It offers a wealth of godly advice, which is truly valuable.

The characters in this book are simply lovable. Each one is unique and well-developed, making it easy for readers to form an emotional connection with them.

What makes this book even more special is its especially sweet ending. It leaves readers with a warm and fuzzy feeling, as if all the loose ends have been neatly tied up.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys stories that tackle real life problems while also providing spiritual guidance and a heartwarming conclusion.
July 15,2025
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I really liked the characters in this story. Each one had their own unique personality and traits that made them stand out.

The plot was also very good. It was engaging from the beginning and kept me interested until the end. There were enough twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat.

I especially enjoyed how the characters interacted with each other. Their relationships added depth and complexity to the story.

Overall, I thought it was a great read. The combination of well-developed characters and an exciting plot made it a very enjoyable experience.

I would highly recommend this story to anyone who enjoys reading. It's definitely worth checking out.

July 15,2025
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I didn't have a great affection for this particular one.

It was far too predictable, which made it rather uninteresting.

The common storylines were also quite frustrating.

It seemed to have all the elements that you would typically expect in a Hallmark movie.

However, it is the Baxter family, and that's the reason why I listened and still managed to enjoy the family drama aspect to some extent.

The family interactions and the dynamics within the Baxter family added a certain charm that made it not a complete washout.

Despite the predictability and the overused storylines, there was something about the family drama that kept me engaged and interested.

Maybe it's the familiarity of the family concept or the way the characters were developed, but there was definitely a redeeming quality to it.

Overall, while it wasn't a favorite, it still had its moments that made it worth listening to for the family drama alone.
July 15,2025
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The Baxter family's story is truly a wonderful read.

John and Elizabeth Baxter are the pillars that hold the family together. They worry about each and every one of their children, but also share in their happy moments, rejoicing with them.

Luke is grappling with his newfound belief that there is no God. He continues to live with Lori, attending free thinkers' talks and leading a carefree lifestyle, which includes an open relationship. However, things take a turn when Lori has a fling with a guy from a meeting, gets pregnant, and has an abortion without telling Luke. When she gets an infection and is hospitalized, John Baxter, who is a doctor there, discovers the truth. Shocked that Luke isn't by her side, John goes to talk to him. Luke is completely unaware of what's happening and gets into an argument with his father. Eventually, he goes to see Lori and life goes on.

Ashley manages to find a gallery in New York City that will sell her paintings. She also surprises Landon, who is working there as a firefighter. But her joy is short-lived when she sees Landon walking with Luke's ex-girlfriend, Reagan, and a baby. At first, Ashley's mind is filled with all kinds of thoughts, but she soon realizes the truth. Landon loves her. She finds out that Landon was on a call to Reagan's apartment when an ambulance was called due to her heavy bleeding. Reagan and the baby, Thomas Luke, survive. Landon not only visits her but also, at the request of her mother, tells Reagan that due to the damage to her uterus, she can no longer have children. Feeling bad for Reagan, Landon is being a friend and spending time with her and the baby. When Ashley discovers that the baby is her nephew, she goes to visit Reagan and promises not to tell Luke.

Reagan eventually tells Luke, but only because her life changes in an instant. A call from Paris reveals that Cole's father is dying of AIDS and Ashley should get tested for HIV. She does and is positive. She refuses Landon's marriage proposal and believes that telling Luke everything is the right thing to do, which it is. Luke's life takes a complete turn when he visits Reagan and his son. He goes to the Baxter family picnic and apologizes to his family, who welcome him back with open arms.

Kari and Ryan finally tie the knot, while Erin and Sam move to Texas. Brooke and Peter are having arguments, but thankfully their daughter, Maddie, will be okay after finding out the cause of her frequent fevers. The Baxter family continues to face life's challenges and joys together.
July 15,2025
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I had begun watching the TV series on Prime. However, one of the scenes seemed inaccurate to me as I had read this book series several years ago.

Consequently, I decided to turn to the source material, which is the book.

This book is an easy read. Nevertheless, one needs to have read book 2 since a lot is referenced to that particular book.

The major event that impacts Luke and Reagan's relationship is 9/11. I had completely forgotten about that. Indeed, this story endeavors to demonstrate what occurs when you base your faith on unstable ground. When the test arrives, everything will come crashing down.

I had also forgotten how Karen incorporates the storylines of the other Baxter children, enabling us to catch up on what is happening to them. Although all I desired to see was how Luke was dealing with his departure from God. Surprisingly, it all gets resolved rather quickly. I was actually shocked at how fast everything gets cleared up, how everything is forgiven, and how Luke and Reagan achieve their happily ever after.
July 15,2025
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I am truly amazed at how accurately the author portrays the real-life issues that her characters encounter in her novels.

There is no attempt to avoid or sugarcoat the pain. Instead, she presents the situations as they are, without offering simplistic or easy answers.

The characters experience true healing and forgiveness, and they also have to face the consequences of their sins. This is what real life is like, filled with challenges and yet also with a glimmer of hope.

The resolutions that the characters come to make sense and are not quick fixes. They require effort and a willingness to change.

I was so moved by this book that I nearly cried as often as I did when I read Remember. In fact, I was so engrossed that I managed to read the entire novel in just two days, despite having a full-time job.

This is a wonderful read that I highly recommend. I especially loved the contrast between liberal thinking and true faith, which added an extra layer of depth to the story.

Overall, this is a must-read for anyone who enjoys novels that deal with real-life issues in a meaningful and thought-provoking way.
July 15,2025
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I have always had a profound love for diving back into Karen Kingsbury's enchanting world. This latest exploration through the Redemption series has been no exception.

It has been approximately a decade since I first delved into this series. Now, with a different perspective and life experiences, I am still thoroughly enjoying myself.

I am particularly drawn to the real-life prodigal son storyline that unfolds in this segment of the series. It is both relatable and engaging, allowing me to empathize with the characters and their struggles.

Moreover, the development that we get to witness in a variety of characters along the way is truly remarkable. Each character undergoes a transformation, evolving and growing in ways that are both heartwarming and inspiring.

As I come to the end of this installment, I find myself eagerly looking forward to starting the next one. I cannot wait to see what new adventures and lessons await me in Karen Kingsbury's captivating world.
July 15,2025
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Goodness,

I feel like as this series progresses, it just keeps improving and getting better and better.

It's as if I'm engrossed in a captivating TV drama, and I'm completely invested in every single member of this family.

The new revelations and discoveries, one of which I actually guessed correctly, have piqued my curiosity to an extreme level.

I'm constantly wondering and speculating about what is going to happen next in this thrilling story.

I simply can't wait to uncover the mysteries and find out what lies ahead!

This series has truly hooked me, and I'm eagerly anticipating each new installment to see how the plot will unfold and what surprises await.
July 15,2025
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Definitely, this installment is the weakest of the three so far. The story had so much potential, but it seems to have fallen short in several aspects.


Luke's character arc was truly captivating until the last few chapters. The way his journey was developed initially was brilliant, with all the struggles and growth he went through. However, his sudden restoration back to Christianity felt like a cop-out, a result of lazy writing. After all the effort put into building up his character, this abrupt change in his beliefs just didn't feel right or believable.


Another huge disappointment was the fate of my favorite character, Ashley. She was such a strong and engaging character, and I was really looking forward to seeing more of her in this novel. But unfortunately, she didn't get the prominent role she deserved. I'm still excited to see if she will feature more prominently in the next novel, as I really hope to see her story continue and develop further.

July 15,2025
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I just completed a reread of this book. In fact, this time I listened to it on Audible while working. I have a great passion for multitasking in this way.

I read this Redemption series several years ago, and it has truly been worthwhile to return to it once more! These books are simply unrivaled. They are filled with all the elements that make a story captivating - all the suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat, all the romance that tugs at your heartstrings, and all the drama that adds excitement and depth.

What sets these books apart is that they do not contain any of the less honorable or unwholesome material that can often be found in the works of other fiction authors. Instead, they offer an edifying read that leaves you feeling uplifted and inspired. It's rare to come across a series that manages to combine entertainment with moral and spiritual value in such a seamless way.

I highly recommend this Redemption series to anyone looking for a great read that will both engage and enrich them.
July 15,2025
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Karen does an amazing job in "Return" of making you relate to the characters.

We are all humans, and we are flawed. We doubt God, we doubt ourselves, and we can be prideful. It is truly comforting to read a story like "Return" where one doesn't feel alone with the things they go through.

Even though it is a fictional story, it is evident that God's working through this series.

The characters' struggles and triumphs mirror our own, allowing us to see that we are not the only ones facing difficulties.

Karen's writing brings these characters to life in a way that makes us care about them and their journey.

We can identify with their flaws and learn from their mistakes, just as we do in our own lives.

"Return" is not just a story; it is a source of inspiration and hope for those who read it.

It reminds us that even in the midst of our own doubts and struggles, God is still at work, guiding us and helping us to find our way.

Overall, Karen's work in "Return" is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to touch our hearts and souls.
July 15,2025
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Love the Baxter family!

The Baxter family is truly a remarkable one that has captured my heart. Their story is filled with love, drama, and countless memorable moments.

One of the big “returns” in the book was unfortunately simply summarized in a couple of paragraphs. It felt like a missed opportunity to fully explore and experience that return in all its glory.

If only we could have witnessed that return in real-time, the ending would have been even better. It would have added an extra layer of depth and emotion to the story.

I can't help but imagine the excitement and anticipation that would have filled the air as the family members reunited. The hugs, the tears, and the joyous expressions on their faces would have been a sight to behold.

Despite this small disappointment, I still thoroughly enjoyed the book and the journey it took me on with the Baxter family. Their story will stay with me for a long time to come.
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