Love this series.

In the past couple of years, I have been looking at books by Karen Kingsbury, and it turns out they are part of the Baxter series. I still have 33 more books to read to complete the series. It will likely take me a couple of years as I also have other things to read.

This particular book was difficult to read. It was due to Luke's situation, being away from the Lord and living with someone, and Peter's situation regarding the accident that occurred with his daughter and the guilt and judgment he previously had towards his wife.

I'm glad that things ended happily in both cases, although there is still a significant amount of work to be done and healing to occur.

I'm looking forward to more books in the series as I can fit them into my book challenge or if I finish my challenge early and get to read them as bonus books.

I'm using this book for the The 52 Book Club 2024 Challenge prompt #44 - Includes a Wedding (Reagan and Luke Baxter's wedding).

The Baxter series has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to continue exploring the lives of these characters and see how their stories unfold. Each book brings new challenges and triumphs, making it a captivating read from start to finish.

I read this either in college or in high school, so it has been a while.

Yet the series was truly enjoyable to read. It has the power to transport you into the challenges and struggles that the characters face, and guides you through realistic situations.

Looking back, there are certain parts that I now find less realistic. For instance, Landon "waiting" for Ashley since high school. In reality, most guys would simply move on with their lives and find another girl to marry.

Another example is famous Dane Matthews pursuing small-town Katie.

Moreover, all of the characters seem to be good-looking. My brother always made fun of me for reading these books, especially when there was an attractive male on the front cover. Haha.

There is also a bit of a melodramatic element to these stories. However, overall, they were enjoyable and even helpful for me when I was younger.

They provided an escape from reality and allowed me to experience different emotions and situations through the eyes of the characters.

Even though some aspects may not be entirely realistic, the stories still managed to capture my attention and keep me engaged from beginning to end.

I'm glad that I had the opportunity to read this series, as it has left a lasting impression on me.

Another perfect book!

It truly took me on an emotional rollercoaster. I found myself crying at the touching moments that tugged at my heartstrings.

And then, just as quickly, I was laughing out loud at the humorous and witty exchanges between the characters.

This series has completely captured my attention and my heart.

Each book in the series is like a precious gem, filled with rich storytelling, well-developed characters, and a world that I can't help but get lost in.

I love how the author has crafted a narrative that keeps me engaged from the very first page to the last.

It's a series that I will undoubtedly recommend to all of my friends and fellow book lovers.

I can't wait to see what adventures and emotions the next book in the series will bring.

Overall, this is a must-read series that will leave you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your heart.

Okay, so for some reason this book started out slow for me, and I have no clue why.

There was so much happening in the beginning of the book. There were various characters being introduced, and different storylines were starting to unfold. But for some strange reason, I was just stuck and not really that interested, if I’m being honest.

However, that changed veryyyyy quickly though. Once I got past that initial slow part, the rest of the book was amazing. It was filled with exciting twists and turns that kept my interest the ENTIRE time. I couldn't put the book down.

And that ending tho

I am really enjoying these books.

They have become my constant companions in my spare time.

Each page is filled with captivating stories, interesting characters, and thought-provoking ideas.

The authors have done an excellent job of creating worlds that draw me in and make me forget about the outside world.

Whether it's a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming romance, or a profound work of non-fiction, these books have something for everyone.

I find myself losing track of time as I get lost in the pages, completely immersed in the stories.

Reading these books has not only entertained me but also broadened my horizons and increased my knowledge.

I look forward to discovering more great books and continuing this wonderful journey of reading.

Great series are a wonderful form of entertainment that can capture our attention and imagination. They have the power to transport us to different worlds, introduce us to unique characters, and tell captivating stories.

Whether it's a thrilling action series, a heartwarming romance, or a thought-provoking drama, there is something for everyone. The best series are those that keep us on the edge of our seats, eager to see what happens next.

They often have complex plotlines and well-developed characters that we can't help but root for. We become emotionally invested in their lives and experiences, and feel a sense of satisfaction when the story reaches its conclusion.

Series also have the advantage of being able to explore themes and ideas in greater depth than a single movie or book. They can build on previous episodes and develop over time, creating a rich and immersive experience for the viewer or reader.

In conclusion, great series are a truly remarkable form of entertainment that have the ability to bring joy, excitement, and inspiration to our lives.

#4 in the Redemption series

This book delves deep into the complex and emotional story of Brooke and Peter. Their journey is filled with heartbreak as they grapple with the tragedy that befell their daughter Hayley. The pain and grief have taken a toll on their marriage, causing growing difficulties and tensions to surface.

Meanwhile, we are also introduced to Ashley's new health crisis. This unexpected turn of events has had a significant impact on her life, especially her relationship with Landon. The strain of her illness has led to the end of their once-promising romance.

On a more positive note, Erin and Sam have made the decision to move to Texas. In this new chapter of their lives, they have also decided to adopt, opening their hearts and home to a child in need.

Finally, Luke and Reagan have rekindled their love and decided to get married in the vibrant city of New York. Their reunion brings a glimmer of hope and happiness to the series, as they look forward to building a future together.

Overall, this book in the Redemption series offers a powerful and engaging exploration of love, loss, and the power of redemption.

Love

Love is such a beautiful and precious thing. A couple should celebrate their love for each other every single day! This is a profound lesson that I learned from reading this wonderful book. In life, there are inevitable ups and downs. We face various challenges and difficulties along the way. However, when we have our significant other by our side, it makes all the difference. Going through life's trials and tribulations with the other half is far better than facing them alone. With love, we find support, comfort, and strength. We can share our joys and sorrows, and together, we can overcome any obstacle. Love gives us the courage to keep going and the hope to look forward to a better tomorrow. It is a bond that ties two people together and makes their lives more meaningful and fulfilling. So, let's not take love for granted and celebrate it every day with our loved ones.

This book mainly centers around Brooke and Peter and their two daughters, Maddie and Hayley. Brooke and Peter's marriage is in a bit of a rough patch. Ever since Peter unilaterally decided to take Maddie to a specialist because of her recurrent fevers, Brooke has felt that they seldom communicate and are not content. They take the girls to a swim party. Sadly, Brooke is called to the hospital. Peter is watching a baseball game with his friend, and when Brooke leaves, he isn't really keeping a close eye on his girls. When the girls ask if they can take off their life jackets to sit down and eat, he helps them remove them. At some point, Hayley decides to go back into the pool. By the time Maddie realizes she's missing and gets her father, it's already too late. Hayley is at the bottom of the pool. Peter jumps in, brings her up, and does everything he can before the ambulance arrives. Brooke gets to the party just in time to ride with Hayley to the hospital in the ambulance. Naturally, the entire Baxter family comes together. John Baxter, aware of how poor the prognosis is, even prays for God to bring Hayley home. But gradually, Hayley slowly recovers. By the end of the book, she is able to roll towards her mother when called. She has regained her sight, smiles, and laughs.

Peter West, unfortunately, blames himself for what happened to Hayley. He starts taking pain pills and quickly becomes addicted. With God's help, he narrowly avoids death and gets treatment. He and Brooke receive the counseling they need, and he moves back into their home. Ryan Taylor also plays a significant role in helping Peter recover.

Ashley and Landon are still together. Hopefully, Ashley will learn to accept her health diagnosis and live life to the fullest with Landon. After Irvel from the Sunset Home passes away, and Landon is in a warehouse fire that claims the lives of other firefighters, they both realize that life is short. Whether you have a day or many years with the one you love, it's all that matters. Landon will be moving back to Bloomington, working at their fire station, and spending as much time as possible with Ashley and Cole.

Luke and Reagan get married in New York City, where they will live. The Baxter family arrives a week before the Christmas Eve ceremony to celebrate and see the sights.

Kari, Ryan, and Jessie are a happy family living in Bloomington. Ryan is content coaching the high school football team.

Erin and Sam are living in Texas. They are able to attend Luke and Reagan's wedding. They are going to adopt a baby they found through their church. The mother was putting the baby up for adoption.

All the events, both good and bad, are having an impact on Elizabeth Baxter. But she still remains happy, the loving mother and grandmother... always ready to babysit at a moment's notice!

~ Audiobook Review ~

This audiobook was truly a captivating experience. At times, it was difficult to read due to the abundance of tragedy and suffering it portrayed. However, I found myself thoroughly enjoying it. The series just keeps getting better and I'm becoming more and more hooked. I absolutely loved the way Brooke learned to seek God's goodness even in the darkest of situations, understanding that God can bring good out of what the enemy intends for evil.

The characters in this book are well-developed and engaging. It focuses on Brooke and her family, but her parents and siblings also have ongoing storylines and significant events. I've included some spoilers here for my own future reference. Brooke's daughter Haylee drowns and Peter becomes addicted to drugs. Luke and Reagan get married. Ashley, still dealing with her diagnosis, continues to push Landon away while raising Cole and working at the Alzheimer's home. Landon gets a promotion at the fire station and proposes a second time. Elizabeth is feeling the weight of the family troubles, and unfortunately, Irvel passes away.

This is the fourth book in the Redemption series and is definitely meant to be read in order. However, Karen Kingsbury does a great job of filling in the main details, so it's possible to read this book without having read the previous ones. Nevertheless, I highly recommend starting from the beginning for a more complete understanding.

The content of this series contains mature themes, which I feel adds depth and realism to the stories. Karen Kingsbury's strong personal Christian faith is a major theme that shines through her novels. Some of the content includes drug addiction, suicide, drowning, AIDS, divorce, and a child with brain damage.

The audio performance was excellent, with a score of 8/10. In this abridged version, Sandra Burr gives a fully voiced performance, assigning a unique voice to each character. Her reading is pleasant and relaxing to listen to. It's also nice that she narrates the entire series, providing consistency.

Author: Karen Kingsbury & Gary Smalley
Narrator: Sandra Burr
Length: 4hrs (Abridged)
Book Published: 22-Mar-2004
Audio Released: 1-Apr-2004
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Platform: christianaudio.com

I am a little dryer than the others.

This might seem like a small difference, but it can have an impact on various aspects of my life.

For example, when it comes to my skin, being a little dryer means I need to be more diligent in moisturizing to keep it soft and smooth.

In the summer, I might feel the heat more acutely as my body struggles to cool itself through sweating.

Even my hair can be affected, becoming more prone to frizz and dryness.

However, I have learned to embrace this aspect of myself and take the necessary steps to care for my body.

I make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out, and I use gentle, moisturizing products on my skin and hair.

Despite being a little dryer than the others, I am still unique and beautiful in my own way.

The fourth installment in the Baxter family series takes an intense turn as Brooke's daughter finds herself in a harrowing near-drowning incident.

It all begins on a seemingly ordinary day at the lake. Brooke and her family have gathered for a day of fun in the sun. Her daughter, full of youthful energy, is eager to explore the water.

As she ventures a little too far from the safety of the shore, a strong current suddenly pulls her under. Panic sets in as Brooke realizes what is happening.

She races into the water, her heart pounding with fear. The other members of the family quickly spring into action, calling for help and searching for the girl.

Seconds feel like minutes as they struggle to find her. Finally, with a great deal of effort, they manage to pull her to the surface.

The girl is unconscious, but thankfully, they are able to revive her. It is a terrifying experience that will forever change the Baxter family.