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The Baxters #23
Coming Home
The emotional and touching conclusion to the Baxter family series! The Baxters make plans to come together for a summer lakeside reunion, a celebration like they haven’t had in years. But before the big day, the unthinkable happens. As the Baxter family rallies together, memories come to light in the grief-stricken hours of waiting and praying, memories that bring healing and hope during a time when otherwise darkness might have the final word. In a season that changes all of them, the brilliance of family love overshadows even the valley of heartache as the Baxters draw closer to God and each other. Along the way, secrets are revealed and the truth about the family’s history is finally made known. Ultimately, in this portrait of family love, the Baxters cling to each other and to God’s promise of forever. From #1 NYT bestseller Karen Kingsbury comes a story of faith and a forever kind of love that will stay with you long after the last page.
304 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2012
760 people are currently reading
4023 people want to read
About the author
Karen Kingsbury
208 books12k followersKaren Kingsbury, #1 New York Times bestselling novelist, is America’s favorite inspirational storyteller, with more than twenty-five million copies of her award-winning books in print. Her last dozen titles have topped bestseller lists and many of her novels are under development with Hallmark Films and as major motion pictures. Her Baxter Family books are being developed into a TV series slated for major network viewing sometime in the next year. Karen is also an adjunct professor of writing at Liberty University. In 2001 she and her husband, Don, adopted three boys from Haiti, doubling their family in a matter of months. Today the couple has joined the ranks of empty nesters, living in Tennessee near five of their adult children.
See more at: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/K...
See more at: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/K...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 640 reviews
April 7, 2021
******CAUTION SPOILERS*****
I used to really like Karen Kingsbury. I really did. I liked how emotional her books were, and how there always seemed to be some good lesson found there. But this book really made me upset with her. Mostly because I do not understand how an author can kill off an entire family in one book. I mean, how can you do that? I could see maybe one person dying in this book, or maybe the "famous Baxter house" burning to the ground, but killing off an entire family is just too much. I feel like it's a slap in the face to her readers to simply wipe out a family when people have faithfully read every single Baxter book, and love this family like their own. Besides that, haven't they been through enough already? Do they have to have yet another tragedy? Can't there be a happy book about them, celebrating their togetherness?
Frankly, I think her books now are little more than soap opera,and if that constitues "LifeChanging Fiction" TM, then I am a monkey's uncle. Further, I don't like how she always wrote about her own family in the books(not so much in this book but in many others). I write too, so I can understand "self-insertion" or basing characters after real people. But there's a difference between basing a character on someone you know, and elevating that person or family as the paragon of virtue which I feel like she did. And there never was much difference between the Flanigans and the Kingsburys anyway. It was way too obvious.
Anyway, I'm sort of glad to see the "Baxter Saga" end, if only because they won't have to deal with yet another tragedy.
I used to really like Karen Kingsbury. I really did. I liked how emotional her books were, and how there always seemed to be some good lesson found there. But this book really made me upset with her. Mostly because I do not understand how an author can kill off an entire family in one book. I mean, how can you do that? I could see maybe one person dying in this book, or maybe the "famous Baxter house" burning to the ground, but killing off an entire family is just too much. I feel like it's a slap in the face to her readers to simply wipe out a family when people have faithfully read every single Baxter book, and love this family like their own. Besides that, haven't they been through enough already? Do they have to have yet another tragedy? Can't there be a happy book about them, celebrating their togetherness?
Frankly, I think her books now are little more than soap opera,and if that constitues "LifeChanging Fiction" TM, then I am a monkey's uncle. Further, I don't like how she always wrote about her own family in the books(not so much in this book but in many others). I write too, so I can understand "self-insertion" or basing characters after real people. But there's a difference between basing a character on someone you know, and elevating that person or family as the paragon of virtue which I feel like she did. And there never was much difference between the Flanigans and the Kingsburys anyway. It was way too obvious.
Anyway, I'm sort of glad to see the "Baxter Saga" end, if only because they won't have to deal with yet another tragedy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2012
Kingsbury has such a way with words, the characters are more like friends than people you're reading about in a book. This is probably the saddest book I've ever read, you'll need two boxes of tissue for this one. In spite of the sorrow it is a very well written conclusion of the Baxter family series.
The Baxters have survived several tragedies and this one tops the list. I won't give anything away but it took me by surprise. As the family gathers to celebrate the father's 70th birthday they all write a letter filled with memories and tell him how much they love him and what he means to them. It turns out everyone can come though they're are spread out across the country. Minutes before the party something happens that will change their lives forever. Kingsbury did a good job of showing how God can bring something good out of bad.
I've read many of Kingsbury's books, each one has touched my heart, this one is no different. I give this one 5 out of 5 stars.
I received an ecopy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
The Baxters have survived several tragedies and this one tops the list. I won't give anything away but it took me by surprise. As the family gathers to celebrate the father's 70th birthday they all write a letter filled with memories and tell him how much they love him and what he means to them. It turns out everyone can come though they're are spread out across the country. Minutes before the party something happens that will change their lives forever. Kingsbury did a good job of showing how God can bring something good out of bad.
I've read many of Kingsbury's books, each one has touched my heart, this one is no different. I give this one 5 out of 5 stars.
I received an ecopy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
July 4, 2012
I love Karen Kingsbury and the real life situations she uses to speak to people about God's love and mercy. This story would have been no different, but at best I felt the pieces she could have used to really highlight God's faithfulness and glory were rushed. She spent the first 100+ pages of the book reviewing the backstory behind each character. I ended up skipping all of it because it was so repetitive and completely unnecessary.
The tragedy this family suffered was tragic and this was by far one of the saddest books I've read. The way the family stayed together during that time was beautiful. However, it seemed that the additional tragedy of the birth mother wanting custody of the daughter was glossed over, and rushed. And the story could have been an amazing testimony for organ donation, but again, this part was rushed and glossed over. And what about a true testimony of forgiveness with the wife of the trucker? Completely glossed over.
All in all, I'm disappointed with this book. It was great to read yet another story about the Baxters, but it felt as if Kingsbury wanted to just hurry up and get them out of the way. I wish she had spent less time rewriting old Baxter stories we can pick up and read in previous books and more time focusing on the ministry of organ donation, forgiving in times of incredible tragedy or even the healing a child after a tragic loss.
The tragedy this family suffered was tragic and this was by far one of the saddest books I've read. The way the family stayed together during that time was beautiful. However, it seemed that the additional tragedy of the birth mother wanting custody of the daughter was glossed over, and rushed. And the story could have been an amazing testimony for organ donation, but again, this part was rushed and glossed over. And what about a true testimony of forgiveness with the wife of the trucker? Completely glossed over.
All in all, I'm disappointed with this book. It was great to read yet another story about the Baxters, but it felt as if Kingsbury wanted to just hurry up and get them out of the way. I wish she had spent less time rewriting old Baxter stories we can pick up and read in previous books and more time focusing on the ministry of organ donation, forgiving in times of incredible tragedy or even the healing a child after a tragic loss.
June 5, 2016
I put off reading this book for a long time, because I was really done with Karen Kingsbury's books after reading Loving (just did not like how that book went). I also knew this was going to be a sad read and wasn't looking forward to that at all. However, when I started I was pleasantly surprised that I was liking it!
But, then I got about 35% and things took a turn that I did. not. like. ***SPOILER AHEAD*** I understand having sadness in books, it makes them realistic, but killing off pretty much an entire main family in the "wrap-up" of the series is just horrible!
***End of Spoiler***
I did love the trip down Baxter memory lane, as each of the siblings wrote a letter to their dad, thanking him, for his 70th birthday. Even if you've read all the Baxter books, this refresher of what all happened was nice (at least to me).
All in all, very mixed feelings about this book. Because of certain things that happened, I didn't like the book...But, taking that out of the picture, it was a pretty good read.
*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
But, then I got about 35% and things took a turn that I did. not. like. ***SPOILER AHEAD*** I understand having sadness in books, it makes them realistic, but killing off pretty much an entire main family in the "wrap-up" of the series is just horrible!
***End of Spoiler***
I did love the trip down Baxter memory lane, as each of the siblings wrote a letter to their dad, thanking him, for his 70th birthday. Even if you've read all the Baxter books, this refresher of what all happened was nice (at least to me).
All in all, very mixed feelings about this book. Because of certain things that happened, I didn't like the book...But, taking that out of the picture, it was a pretty good read.
*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
June 8, 2013
Terrible. One of the worst written books I've ever laid eyes upon. Rudimentary story development. Couldn't even finish this book because it was so awful. The writing style was almost offensive to adult readers. Not worth it! Pass on this book.
October 25, 2024
An excellent addition to the Baxter saga. Dealing with loss and how if believing in a Heavenly Father you can have peace. It was so well written that it brought me back when I loss my parents. It was just beautiful. I always get so much out of a Karen Kingsbury books and especially this one. It was so worth the 5 star rating. If you do decide to read this just know it does deal with death if that might bother you. Still know I highly recommend this wonderful book!!!!
June 10, 2012
In my personal opinion, if a book can make me feel emotion so deeply that I feel a part of the story, it's a winner! This one, moved me to tears many, many times and shows just how we go about dealing with loss as a Christian in a world where all we want is answers to the question why.
In Karen Kingsbury's latest novel, Coming Home, the reader is immediately invited to join the Baxter family as Ashley, one of the daughters, begins to make plans for her father's seventieth birthday party. Like most family's that are grown and beginning families of their own, it is hard to coordinate a surprise for her dad, John with all his kids present but that is exactly what Ashley has planned. They all want to surprise their dad and be present to show him just how much they all love and care about him, even though they all lost their mom to cancer a few years ago. John has since remarried and doesn't expect anything more than an invitation to attend a bar-b-que with Ashley and her family.
Not expecting all her brothers and sisters and their families to be able to be there, Ashley's husband, Landon suggests that each of them should write a letter to their dad explaining what he means to each of them. They could read the letters out loud at the birthday celebration and each of them share how much their father's life has impacted them. They all agree to do this and set to work on their own personal letters.
Much to Ashley's surprise, all of her brothers, sisters and their families make plans to be there moments before her father and his wife show up, and all agree to do their best to keep it a secret. They all are touched that the man who has impacted their personal lives will receive the ultimate surprise that day, unfortunately it will not be the surprise any of them ever expected. You'll have to read this one to know the outcome of the story and see just how their own personal faith will be tested.
I received Coming Home by Karen Kingsbury compliments of Zondervan Publishers and NetGalley for my honest review. This is my second time experiencing a Karen Kingsbury first and if you never have, you have to try one. It is truly a life changing experience. There is a safe harbor to be sitting in while watching a family go through one of the most challenging and difficult times for anyone but being a family of believers in Christ, makes this one truly unique to watch and feel. This is a true testament to the faith of a believer in Christ and what lies behind this life when we breathe our last. I think Karen did an exceptional job at bringing the Baxter family series to a beautiful conclusion. Even though I haven't read any books in the series, I immediately felt like I already belonged to this wonderful family. You can pick this one up and begin the experience all over again, it's such a perfect stand alone story!
This book rates for me, a 5 out of 5 stars. Not only did it increase my own personal faith through this book, but it strengthen me, to understand how it all plays out so eloquently together, with hope, unconditional love, and an eternal future promised to all who believe in Jesus Christ. That this life will not end when we leave this world.
In Karen Kingsbury's latest novel, Coming Home, the reader is immediately invited to join the Baxter family as Ashley, one of the daughters, begins to make plans for her father's seventieth birthday party. Like most family's that are grown and beginning families of their own, it is hard to coordinate a surprise for her dad, John with all his kids present but that is exactly what Ashley has planned. They all want to surprise their dad and be present to show him just how much they all love and care about him, even though they all lost their mom to cancer a few years ago. John has since remarried and doesn't expect anything more than an invitation to attend a bar-b-que with Ashley and her family.
Not expecting all her brothers and sisters and their families to be able to be there, Ashley's husband, Landon suggests that each of them should write a letter to their dad explaining what he means to each of them. They could read the letters out loud at the birthday celebration and each of them share how much their father's life has impacted them. They all agree to do this and set to work on their own personal letters.
Much to Ashley's surprise, all of her brothers, sisters and their families make plans to be there moments before her father and his wife show up, and all agree to do their best to keep it a secret. They all are touched that the man who has impacted their personal lives will receive the ultimate surprise that day, unfortunately it will not be the surprise any of them ever expected. You'll have to read this one to know the outcome of the story and see just how their own personal faith will be tested.
I received Coming Home by Karen Kingsbury compliments of Zondervan Publishers and NetGalley for my honest review. This is my second time experiencing a Karen Kingsbury first and if you never have, you have to try one. It is truly a life changing experience. There is a safe harbor to be sitting in while watching a family go through one of the most challenging and difficult times for anyone but being a family of believers in Christ, makes this one truly unique to watch and feel. This is a true testament to the faith of a believer in Christ and what lies behind this life when we breathe our last. I think Karen did an exceptional job at bringing the Baxter family series to a beautiful conclusion. Even though I haven't read any books in the series, I immediately felt like I already belonged to this wonderful family. You can pick this one up and begin the experience all over again, it's such a perfect stand alone story!
This book rates for me, a 5 out of 5 stars. Not only did it increase my own personal faith through this book, but it strengthen me, to understand how it all plays out so eloquently together, with hope, unconditional love, and an eternal future promised to all who believe in Jesus Christ. That this life will not end when we leave this world.
January 23, 2016
COMING HOME by Karen Kingsbury . . . why did I do this to myself? With each new spin-off series from the original Redemption Series, my review ratings have either gone down or stagnated. I constantly brought up the fact that so much back story was filtered into each of the subsequent books, that I felt I was only getting half a book each time I bought one. So, why did I think COMING HOME would be any different?
I cringed out loud as I read the first twelve chapters of the book. Not only was it a complete review of each family member and the lives we had already read about. But, each loving couple’s dialogue was so sickening sweet it felt so far removed from the normal. Now, that is not to say that I don’t still adore my husband after 32 years of marriage. But, I can guarantee each time we talk to each other, or brush up against each other while working in the kitchen, we don’t stop to say how much we love each other, how are lives were completely changed by each other, how we could never be who we are without each other. Now, we do feel that way, but to say it over and over again like the characters in this book, just made the first dozen chapters difficult to get through.
I also have read so many of Karen Kingsbury books, I have learned to read her “tell” the sign that something big is going to happen. Therefore I was not surprised with the tragedy that ensued. Now, to Ms. Kingsbury’s credit, I read the rest of the book in three hours because of being drawn into the drama and the action. It was heart wrenching. But, like many others of Karen Kingsbury followers, I think I will take a much need rest from her books. I have to decide if it is worth going back and reading UNLOCKED and the Above the Line series. Somehow I feel I already have the gist of it.
I cringed out loud as I read the first twelve chapters of the book. Not only was it a complete review of each family member and the lives we had already read about. But, each loving couple’s dialogue was so sickening sweet it felt so far removed from the normal. Now, that is not to say that I don’t still adore my husband after 32 years of marriage. But, I can guarantee each time we talk to each other, or brush up against each other while working in the kitchen, we don’t stop to say how much we love each other, how are lives were completely changed by each other, how we could never be who we are without each other. Now, we do feel that way, but to say it over and over again like the characters in this book, just made the first dozen chapters difficult to get through.
I also have read so many of Karen Kingsbury books, I have learned to read her “tell” the sign that something big is going to happen. Therefore I was not surprised with the tragedy that ensued. Now, to Ms. Kingsbury’s credit, I read the rest of the book in three hours because of being drawn into the drama and the action. It was heart wrenching. But, like many others of Karen Kingsbury followers, I think I will take a much need rest from her books. I have to decide if it is worth going back and reading UNLOCKED and the Above the Line series. Somehow I feel I already have the gist of it.
February 10, 2017
Like many KK fans I was excited about this book. I couldn't believe that we were going to have to say goodbye to the Baxter's. I too have read each book that the Baxter's have been featured in. While the first several chapters are a "review" of the Baxter children and their struggles, it was nice to look back at their lives. This "review" also allows new readers or someone picking this book up as a stand-alone to read and have a little bit of a background. Chapter 10 or 11 pulls you into KK's usual writing. The family is together to celebrate John Baxter's 70th birthday when the unthinkable happens. I love that Karen sends this family through real life struggles. That just because they are Christians they are not given the happy ending and easy lives I think some people expect Christians live. They struggle like we all do but with faith and the support of their family and strength from God they get through. Karen, you did a wonderful job with this book! I cried through the entire book...remembering the struggles of the past and the current struggles. I'm sad that I won't know what the family is up to anymore. I'll end with this...After finishing the book last night I lay awake for sometime trying to process all that had happened. I felt like I was with the Baxter's through the whole book and was an emotional wreck with them! Pick up this book and read it! I don't think you'll regret it!
July 15, 2015
Wow! Where do I start? My fist book by Karen but totally not the last! I was so wrapped up in this family from page one. I came to know and love them all. This is a truly heartbreaking book so keep the tissues handy! I knew this was the last book in the Baxter series and was a bit afraid to read it as I hadn't read the others. I had no problem following along with the charcters and the story line and cant wait to read the series from the beginning!
Along with the heartbreak there is also hope,faith and healing. I felt so close to the whole family as I finished up the book and really didnt want the book to end. Karen is an excellent story teller and she gets you so caught up in their lives right from the very first page and never lets you go. This is a book that will stay with me for a very long time!
Note: I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Along with the heartbreak there is also hope,faith and healing. I felt so close to the whole family as I finished up the book and really didnt want the book to end. Karen is an excellent story teller and she gets you so caught up in their lives right from the very first page and never lets you go. This is a book that will stay with me for a very long time!
Note: I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2017
The saddest, yet most triumphant book from Karen Kingsbury that I've read so far. I cried through this entire book, mostly sad tears but also joyful ones too. Very, very emotional.
December 17, 2012
I was really upset with Karen for even writing this book. It didn't wrap up her Baxter series in a good way at all, and it just made me mad. Twenty-two books over nearly as many years should lead to a different kind of ending than the one she gave us. Granted, it was written well, and I see what she was trying to do - I even cried through most of it, which is the KK trademark - but I don't see how it was necessary at all. A big disappointment for me.
December 15, 2024
I'm going to say for the record: This entire review will contain spoilers. If you want to read this book, don't read my review. And if you're a fan of this book you probably shouldn't read my review, either, because I have nothing good to say about it. And again, I also want to apologize. As a fellow author, I hate leaving bad reviews for another author. I especially don't like stating that I hated a book. But I have very, very strong feelings about this book, so...again, I apologize.
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I. HATED. THIS. BOOK.
Ugh.
What in the world did I just read?
I have always felt like Erin and Sam and her family had backseat to the entire Baxter Family.
Kari got her own book. So did Ashley. So did Luke. So did Brooke. Erin had to share all of, what, seven chapters of what should've been her book with a character we don't even care about: Dayne Matthews. Dayne Matthews who, in my opinion, was a last-minute desperate attempt to keep the Baxter family series going past Redemption. He wasn't even mentioned or foreshadowed in the first 4 books of the Redemption series, so the fact that he just sprang up in book 5 out of nowhere like pimples on prom night in the last book was kind of annoying to begin with. And it gets even better. He gets an entire series, plus major roles in the ones after that and Erin gets...
Um, let's see. Honorable mention? At best?
She lives down in Texas with her family. I'd love it if she got her own story, but no. She never did. So, she adopted four kids. I kind of feel like Erin wasn't even a side character, she was an extra, an NPC and so since her part in the story was basically worthless, she was killed off, along with her whole family EXCEPT for one kid.
Now, don't get me wrong. I'm an author who loves to write tragedy. I love making people feel, and I do that by way of tears. But this book, in my opinion, was too tragic. Way too tragic. Like, borderline horror book tragic. The only survivor of an awful accident was a (I don't even know anymore, ten?) ten year old girl. Who acted like she never even went through a trauma after the fact when, in reality, she would have been wrecked for a long time. A death is one thing. But this was traumatic.
Oh, and on John's 70th birthday. So he was robbed of that day, forever tainted because of Erin's accident. JOHN DID NOT DESERVE THAT. What even?
I also found the courtroom scene to be very cringe. I have never known a custody battle to be solved in twenty minutes. Man, if only they were all like that. I found the conduct of both the judge and Candy's attorney to be very unprofessional. Almost like they both didn't know what they were doing.
Oh, and Amy had a vision of her family in Heaven, so that means that a week, yes, a week after the accident, the Baxter family is back to normal, happy, celebrating John's birthday and a little sad because Erin isn't with them. Yes, I know there were tears there, but it just seemed so... "Oh, well, we had our cry and now we can move on!" type thing. After a week or two.
Poor Amy Elizabeth. Poor John. And poor Erin and her family, who were never really anything more than NPC's or extras in the background to a character we don't even care about. Dayne Matthews.
I will never read this again if I can avoid it.
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I. HATED. THIS. BOOK.
Ugh.
What in the world did I just read?
I have always felt like Erin and Sam and her family had backseat to the entire Baxter Family.
Kari got her own book. So did Ashley. So did Luke. So did Brooke. Erin had to share all of, what, seven chapters of what should've been her book with a character we don't even care about: Dayne Matthews. Dayne Matthews who, in my opinion, was a last-minute desperate attempt to keep the Baxter family series going past Redemption. He wasn't even mentioned or foreshadowed in the first 4 books of the Redemption series, so the fact that he just sprang up in book 5 out of nowhere like pimples on prom night in the last book was kind of annoying to begin with. And it gets even better. He gets an entire series, plus major roles in the ones after that and Erin gets...
Um, let's see. Honorable mention? At best?
She lives down in Texas with her family. I'd love it if she got her own story, but no. She never did. So, she adopted four kids. I kind of feel like Erin wasn't even a side character, she was an extra, an NPC and so since her part in the story was basically worthless, she was killed off, along with her whole family EXCEPT for one kid.
Now, don't get me wrong. I'm an author who loves to write tragedy. I love making people feel, and I do that by way of tears. But this book, in my opinion, was too tragic. Way too tragic. Like, borderline horror book tragic. The only survivor of an awful accident was a (I don't even know anymore, ten?) ten year old girl. Who acted like she never even went through a trauma after the fact when, in reality, she would have been wrecked for a long time. A death is one thing. But this was traumatic.
Oh, and on John's 70th birthday. So he was robbed of that day, forever tainted because of Erin's accident. JOHN DID NOT DESERVE THAT. What even?
I also found the courtroom scene to be very cringe. I have never known a custody battle to be solved in twenty minutes. Man, if only they were all like that. I found the conduct of both the judge and Candy's attorney to be very unprofessional. Almost like they both didn't know what they were doing.
Oh, and Amy had a vision of her family in Heaven, so that means that a week, yes, a week after the accident, the Baxter family is back to normal, happy, celebrating John's birthday and a little sad because Erin isn't with them. Yes, I know there were tears there, but it just seemed so... "Oh, well, we had our cry and now we can move on!" type thing. After a week or two.
Poor Amy Elizabeth. Poor John. And poor Erin and her family, who were never really anything more than NPC's or extras in the background to a character we don't even care about. Dayne Matthews.
I will never read this again if I can avoid it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2025
Okay I think this is a terrible way to end a series. Did not expect this and honestly mad they ended this beautiful series with such a heart wrenching ending. Did I cry through like all of the book. yes. Was the book good eh. I just don’t see why they had to end it that way. I don’t really have any other words than that. But I am going to be sad not reading about this family anymore. It gave me a lot of inspiration and standards for my future family to lead such a faith based life.
June 22, 2012
Coming Home. Ah, those two words for many of us evoke thoughts of family, safety, warmth, togetherness. In Karen Kingsbury’s last Baxter book Coming Home- A Story of Unending Love and Eternal Promise, I would say the descriptors are more like heartbreak, battle, loyalty and eternal hope. This book opens with Ashley Baxter rallying the troops (her siblings and their families) to pull off a 70th surprise birthday party for their father and patriarch of the family John Baxter. And so all of the siblings are invited and heading back to Indiana to take part in this special celebration with each one asked to write a special letter of love for their father. In the process the reader gets to take a walk down memory lane as each sibling recalls their own story and how their Dad was influential in it. For me, a true blue Baxter family fan, I found it enjoyable to look back on each character’s story and journey and how love of family and faith in God brought them through. The Baxter’s weren’t perfect, in fact some of their choices along the way were choices that were not what we would hope they would make, but no matter what, their love for each other and trust and faith that God was working in the midst of the rebellious times proves to be what gets them through. For a new reader, you could actually learn about each character’s back story in a condensed fashion and so I believe you could engage in this story. I thought it was well done.
The tragedy in this story, and there is tragedy, was pretty heartbreaking. I can’t give it away as that is too much of a spoiler. But, I will say that the Baxter family rallies around each other as they have never had to do before and it is hard, heartbreaking and yet in that way that Karen Kingsbury always has with her storytelling, it is filled with heart, faith in God and their deep abiding love for each other that actually leaves you with tremendous hope and faith. I thought this ending was very fitting and there is a hope that Karen Kingsbury will still give us certain little sneak- peaks into the Baxter’s lives in the future through other books. I will have to say that for some reason this series has struck a chord with me and I know many other’s as her books are often NY times bestsellers. There is just something about the Baxter family that you just really care about these characters and what happens to them. And so with this last book, as I began to read it, I thought that the title was so apropos “Coming Home” as that is how you feel about the Baxter’s that they are real and could be your next door neighbors, and what wonderful neighbors they would be.
5 stars
I received a free digital copy if this book for review purposes. All opinions expressed are honest and my own.
The tragedy in this story, and there is tragedy, was pretty heartbreaking. I can’t give it away as that is too much of a spoiler. But, I will say that the Baxter family rallies around each other as they have never had to do before and it is hard, heartbreaking and yet in that way that Karen Kingsbury always has with her storytelling, it is filled with heart, faith in God and their deep abiding love for each other that actually leaves you with tremendous hope and faith. I thought this ending was very fitting and there is a hope that Karen Kingsbury will still give us certain little sneak- peaks into the Baxter’s lives in the future through other books. I will have to say that for some reason this series has struck a chord with me and I know many other’s as her books are often NY times bestsellers. There is just something about the Baxter family that you just really care about these characters and what happens to them. And so with this last book, as I began to read it, I thought that the title was so apropos “Coming Home” as that is how you feel about the Baxter’s that they are real and could be your next door neighbors, and what wonderful neighbors they would be.
5 stars
I received a free digital copy if this book for review purposes. All opinions expressed are honest and my own.
June 17, 2012
I have read the entire Baxter series (all 22 books) and consider the family members some of my all-time favorite characters. After being very disappointed with the Bailey series, I was nervous to read this book and anxious to see if it would follow the trend of the Bailey series or return to the life-changing tales fans have come to appreciate from Karen. This book did not disappoint.
The first part of the book is a walk down memory lane for fans of the Baxters (and can catch up a new reader) as the various kids and their families travel to Indiana to celebrate John Baxters' 70th birthday. When tragedy strikes, the family must rely on each other and Jesus as they face the unthinkable.
It's hard to say what I thought about the book without giving away what the tragedy is, but through the horrible events, the common theme from all of the Baxter series shines through: total dependence and faith in Jesus no matter the circumstances. I loved the various chapters being told through the eyes of the siblings, giving one last glimpse into these characters' lives. I loved the hope despite the hurt. I loved seeing the kids who I read about when they were born as teens and preteens with their own story to tell. (I can see Karen doing a book about Cole in the future.) And most of all, I loved seeing a book by Karen that went back to the storytelling that made us all fans.
Fans of the Baxter family will enjoy this one last journey with an amazing family that endured some of life's most bitter circumstances with faith and even joy.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
The first part of the book is a walk down memory lane for fans of the Baxters (and can catch up a new reader) as the various kids and their families travel to Indiana to celebrate John Baxters' 70th birthday. When tragedy strikes, the family must rely on each other and Jesus as they face the unthinkable.
It's hard to say what I thought about the book without giving away what the tragedy is, but through the horrible events, the common theme from all of the Baxter series shines through: total dependence and faith in Jesus no matter the circumstances. I loved the various chapters being told through the eyes of the siblings, giving one last glimpse into these characters' lives. I loved the hope despite the hurt. I loved seeing the kids who I read about when they were born as teens and preteens with their own story to tell. (I can see Karen doing a book about Cole in the future.) And most of all, I loved seeing a book by Karen that went back to the storytelling that made us all fans.
Fans of the Baxter family will enjoy this one last journey with an amazing family that endured some of life's most bitter circumstances with faith and even joy.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 21, 2013
Many people have commented that they didn't like the repetition of the details of all the Baxters' lives. It's been awhile since I had read the earlier books, so I enjoyed being reminded of their lives. I, too, however, found many details to be unbelievable as I did in some of her earlier books. I mean, come on, Bailey was supposedly the most popular girl in school and never been kissed? Really? This book is in the Karen Kingsbury style of drama~~perhaps not always good. In light of tragedy, the family is unwavering in their faith. Of course, they waver for a second, but then they rally round and all's good. Not too much like real life. Perhaps, in the moments that Karen didn't write about were the moments that the family fell apart. Once again a story comes out that is too sugary sweet to be believable. If you have experienced a loved one's death, you will be able to relate at least in part to some of this book.
December 3, 2015
This is not a happy go lucky Karen Kingsbury book! I feel like I needed a warning because I chose to read this book at a very difficult time thinking that I could use a little dose of only good things happen and God is great that Karen gives. This is a tear jerker and is very emotional on all levels. I am not saying it was bad just not what I had pictured in my mind of this author.
September 25, 2015
I wanted to give this 5 stars but I hate that she killed off a whole family (besides 1). Especially since I feel like this family has been through so much! I loved the whole series and I already miss the Baxter's & Flanigan's. So sad that it's over!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2021
I haven’t read any of the books in the Baxter series, so I enjoyed the review of each family at the beginning of the book. What a heart wrenching story of tragedy and a family’s grounded faith and strength in God to get them through the unimaginable.
May 1, 2022
Don't mind me sobbing over here...
Okay... I didn't actually sob because I just don't get emotional like that, but this is only the second book that has made me on the verge of tears (the other book being Summer).
I already knew what would happen in this book because I had read the ones that came after it, not knowing that this book existed, but the tragedy and the emotional rollercoaster were still as crazy and beautiful as if I had not known what was coming. It truly is a great example of how great God's faithfulness is and that His mercies are new each and every morning for those who have found eternal life in Him.
I saw some reviews saying that the first half of the book was essentially just a review of each of the characters and their backstories. I did notice that as well, but I didn't find it too annoying as it set the stage for all the other things that happened (including the kids' letters to their dad for his birthday). Some of the reminiscings were tacky, but I know that can be difficult to write.
Overall, I would probably give it a 4.5 ⭐ rating (only because of the above-mentioned story recap; otherwise for sure 5 stars. )
Okay... I didn't actually sob because I just don't get emotional like that, but this is only the second book that has made me on the verge of tears (the other book being Summer).
I already knew what would happen in this book because I had read the ones that came after it, not knowing that this book existed, but the tragedy and the emotional rollercoaster were still as crazy and beautiful as if I had not known what was coming. It truly is a great example of how great God's faithfulness is and that His mercies are new each and every morning for those who have found eternal life in Him.
I saw some reviews saying that the first half of the book was essentially just a review of each of the characters and their backstories. I did notice that as well, but I didn't find it too annoying as it set the stage for all the other things that happened (including the kids' letters to their dad for his birthday). Some of the reminiscings were tacky, but I know that can be difficult to write.
Overall, I would probably give it a 4.5 ⭐ rating (only because of the above-mentioned story recap; otherwise for sure 5 stars. )
March 22, 2017
I have loved every one of the Baxter family books that I have read but I think "Coming Home" is now my favorite! While the story was exceedingly sad and caused me to cry profusely, it was also filled with hope and love.
I particularly liked how Karen Kingsbury included a chapter for each Baxter child (adult) and father John and briefly summarized the difficulties that the family member had overcome. These summaries do make "Coming Home" a stand-alone book but I do not know why anyone would not want to read ALL of the Baxter family books so if you plan to read the other books, wait to read "Coming Home" until the end or the stories will be "spoiled".
One of the things I really like about Karen Kingsbury's writing is how she deals with real life problems from a Christian perspective. "Coming Home" was packed with Biblical truths! Here are some of the ones that I noticed in particular although the quotes do contain spoilers so don't read if you want to avoid knowing what has happened in the other books.
I had been contemplating how much sex is too much sex in romance stories before I began reading "Coming Home". As I started reading, I realized that Karen Kingsbury provides a good example of how Christian authors can include passion and sex in their stories, when it is appropriate for the story line, without being offensive or sullying something that God designed to be beautiful and yet a private expression of love between a married man and woman. Each of the married couples display passion in their chapter in "Coming Home" and Ashley and Landon even have sex but there is nothing offensive about the descriptions. Check out the scenes and see if you agree with me that they are very appropriate/clean.
These two reader comments in the front of "Coming Home" summarize my thoughts about Karen Kingsbury's books very well:
- "Karen's books are like a personal Bible study - there are so many situations that can be applied directly to truths found in God's Word to help strengthen and encourage me." Laura G.
- "God's love, mercy and hope shine through every one of Karen Kingsbury's books. She has a passion for the Lord and it shows in every story she writes. She is amazing!" Kristi C. M.
I particularly liked how Karen Kingsbury included a chapter for each Baxter child (adult) and father John and briefly summarized the difficulties that the family member had overcome. These summaries do make "Coming Home" a stand-alone book but I do not know why anyone would not want to read ALL of the Baxter family books so if you plan to read the other books, wait to read "Coming Home" until the end or the stories will be "spoiled".
One of the things I really like about Karen Kingsbury's writing is how she deals with real life problems from a Christian perspective. "Coming Home" was packed with Biblical truths! Here are some of the ones that I noticed in particular although the quotes do contain spoilers so don't read if you want to avoid knowing what has happened in the other books.
I had been contemplating how much sex is too much sex in romance stories before I began reading "Coming Home". As I started reading, I realized that Karen Kingsbury provides a good example of how Christian authors can include passion and sex in their stories, when it is appropriate for the story line, without being offensive or sullying something that God designed to be beautiful and yet a private expression of love between a married man and woman. Each of the married couples display passion in their chapter in "Coming Home" and Ashley and Landon even have sex but there is nothing offensive about the descriptions. Check out the scenes and see if you agree with me that they are very appropriate/clean.
These two reader comments in the front of "Coming Home" summarize my thoughts about Karen Kingsbury's books very well:
- "Karen's books are like a personal Bible study - there are so many situations that can be applied directly to truths found in God's Word to help strengthen and encourage me." Laura G.
- "God's love, mercy and hope shine through every one of Karen Kingsbury's books. She has a passion for the Lord and it shows in every story she writes. She is amazing!" Kristi C. M.
December 20, 2019
Notat til meg sjølv:
Ei bok om det håpet me har i Himmelen. Sjølv om ting blir vanskelig og i nokre situasjonar uoverkommelig så har me eit håp om ein Himmel der det aldri meir vil vere sorg, savn, smerte og død. Mange tårer blei felt mens eg las denne boka, og det er kanskje fordi eg her eit følelsesmenneske som tar lett til tårene, men dette var ei trist bok med eit glimt av håp. På ein måte meir virkelighetsnært enn nokre av dei siste bøkene eg har lese av Karen Kingsbury, men likevel merkar ein at det er "amerikansk".
Karen Kingsbury seier sjølv at du kan lese denne boka som ei avslutning eller ein introduksjon til Baxter-familien. Til det vil eg seie...
... avslutning: ja
... introduksjon: nei
Og grunnen til det er at denne boka "avslører" ein del ting som gjer at det ikkje vil vere så spennande å lese resten av serien dersom du leser 'På vei hjem' først. Derimot å lese ho som ei avslutning synes eg var kjempefint då ho på ein fin måte avslutta og oppsummerte heile serien.
Ei bok om det håpet me har i Himmelen. Sjølv om ting blir vanskelig og i nokre situasjonar uoverkommelig så har me eit håp om ein Himmel der det aldri meir vil vere sorg, savn, smerte og død. Mange tårer blei felt mens eg las denne boka, og det er kanskje fordi eg her eit følelsesmenneske som tar lett til tårene, men dette var ei trist bok med eit glimt av håp. På ein måte meir virkelighetsnært enn nokre av dei siste bøkene eg har lese av Karen Kingsbury, men likevel merkar ein at det er "amerikansk".
Karen Kingsbury seier sjølv at du kan lese denne boka som ei avslutning eller ein introduksjon til Baxter-familien. Til det vil eg seie...
... avslutning: ja
... introduksjon: nei
Og grunnen til det er at denne boka "avslører" ein del ting som gjer at det ikkje vil vere så spennande å lese resten av serien dersom du leser 'På vei hjem' først. Derimot å lese ho som ei avslutning synes eg var kjempefint då ho på ein fin måte avslutta og oppsummerte heile serien.
April 28, 2021
Good story but too heart wrenching
I haven’t read the other books in this series so my review is based solely on Coming Home. The Baxter family is awesome but this book was too sad, even more so than expected. I felt there were gaps that could have been filled in as well, like how did the wife of the truck driver react to their kind letters? Was the trucking company held responsible for pushing the drivers beyond their limits? The message of God throughout the book was beautiful and the author was spot on with how we as Christians should react in these situations. That was my favorite takeaway.
I haven’t read the other books in this series so my review is based solely on Coming Home. The Baxter family is awesome but this book was too sad, even more so than expected. I felt there were gaps that could have been filled in as well, like how did the wife of the truck driver react to their kind letters? Was the trucking company held responsible for pushing the drivers beyond their limits? The message of God throughout the book was beautiful and the author was spot on with how we as Christians should react in these situations. That was my favorite takeaway.
June 19, 2024
I really wish we could do half stars as this is a solid 3.5 for me. It was definitely a change of pace, but the first half felt a little bit like lazy writing as it was a detailed summary of the last 22 books, and while some details are helpful it was a little cringey to read as it was done through awkward conversations or characters reflecting to themselves. However the second half was incredibly moving and tragic and had me a lot more committed, time to go back and read the rest of them now!
April 14, 2020
So raw with emotion from start to finish. Guidance and direction through faith is a personal journey but family faith can help bring a personal relationship with Hod stronger if you are willing - definitely need a full box of kleenex for this one. Glory be to God
April 19, 2021
Heartwarming and interesting look into a Christian family story, or how it ought to be, without the recriminations of some Christian plots and not sadness or loss. Exceptionally well narrated by Stefan Rudnicki and Gabrielle Del Suir.
December 19, 2018
Cried & laughed
Losing someone hurts but with Christ it makes bearable, I love the vision of all of them in heaven with Elizabeth
Losing someone hurts but with Christ it makes bearable, I love the vision of all of them in heaven with Elizabeth
Read
May 27, 2017it was good. i actually finished a little while ago, it this is a recommend. great for those people who maybe would prefer not to read the 20 something books that come before this. although i do think it would not hold the same emotion.
May 9, 2023
Cried the whole time I may never feel again
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