Sunset: The Baxter Family, Sunrise Series (Book 4) Clean, Contemporary Christian Fiction

Sunrise #4

by Karen Kingsbury

Book 4 in the bestselling 4-book Christian fiction series that has sold over 1.3 million copies!A story about God’s unending faithfulness, the power of family love, and the healing miracle of redemption, from Karen Kingsbury, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of “heart-tugging and emotional” (Romantic Times) life-changing fiction.A New ChapterWith the demands of Hollywood life behind them for now, Dayne and Katy Matthews continue to adjust to life in Bloomington as they look forward to a new chapter together―expanding their family. Meanwhile, the entire CKT staff is busy preparing for the first production in Dayne and Katy’s theater.A Time of UncertaintyThe Flanigans rally to support Bailey and Connor as they try out for lead roles in the musical, but then the family receives tragic news that weighs heavily on everyone’s mind. At the same time, Jim Flanigan faces a decision that could drastically change his family’s life.A Beautiful BeginningAs John Baxter prepares for his marriage to Elaine Denning, one of the Baxters enters the most trying season of all. Will a time of renewed love and hope be strong enough to establish the sacred ground of marriage and chart a course for the future? And when the time comes to finally sell the beloved Baxter house, memories of times gone by meet with the changes of today, proving that only the support of faith and family can take a person into the sunset years of life.The Sunrise series is the third installment in the continuing Baxter Family Drama from America’s number-one inspirational novelist, Karen Kingsbury. Revisit the Baxter family in all their life-changing events, or share the series with someone who hasn’t discovered it yet.Winner of Christian Retailing’s Retailer’s Choice Award for Best Series!

Genres: Christian Fiction, Christian, Fiction, Romance, Christian Romance, Adult Fiction, Contemporary

336 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 2008

About the author

Karen 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...

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think my husband is glad that I have finished my "Christian soap opera" series.

What I didn't like about the series: I couldn't decide if Ashley was a sincere person or a busybody. There was a thunderstorm or tornado watch in every book. I understand that's common in Indiana, but does it always happen at times of great emotional turmoil? It became cliche. The people were a little too perfect for me... even when they were messing up, they were... well, perfect. They were always "looking into each other's eyes, into the soul." I didn't understand the purpose of the Flannigan family subplots except when they related to the Katy/ Dane storyline.

What I liked about the series: It was refreshing to read a series that always ended happily. On the news and in other novels I read, everything is so depressing. The storylines were relevant; the issues Kingsbury discussed (difficulties of marriage and parenting, sickness, death, birth, teenagers and Internet, guilt/forgiveness,etc.) are ones my friends and I often discuss. I think I cried in every book in all 3 series; granted, I don't like crying, but the plot elicited pathos. I also appreciated the focus on family; no matter what was the crisis du jour, the family supported each other. I loved seeing them have big family gatherings and traditions. I wish everyone could have a family like the Baxters. Even though I did not agree with all of Kingsbury's points, the books encouraged me to be a better person.

[Rissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sunset ⭐️

Star reasoning
⭐️ love the characters

⭐️the family is so raw and real

⭐️love seeing our characters family grow and their lives build up

⭐️Her writing draws you in to their lives so quickly.

-1 Its not a full reason not to give it 5 but its not the best in the series and Im hoping the rest of this set will be just as good or better.

Series ranking
1. Someday
2. Sunrise
3. Sunset
4. Summer.

[Hannah Beth (Hannah's Book Cafe) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always love a good installment of the Baxters. This one was a bit predictable but I still found myself close to tears a lot!! I can't wait to start the next series.

[Kati · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this last book in the 3rd Baxter series. I would like Kingsbury to write a novel off shooting from this about some of the other characters. I would esp. like to know what happens/becomes of Bailey and Cody's relationship -- I think there's a great love story there.

[Reagan Soper · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how this wrapped up the series! was a perfect ending, Karen. and aren't I smart? I guesssed like everything that happened in this book!

[Anne Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I am so happy to have been introduced to books by Karen Kingsbury. Even though I read the Sunrise Series first, I would like to go back and read the series that comes before this as well as more books that have come out that involve the Baxter and Flanigan families! I love the scripture that is quoted in the books. It's fascinating how the author made God speak to the characters, and how so many Bible passages were memorized by the characters!
In this book, Dayne and Katy help put on the CKT play about Joseph and his brother's. It's of course a huge success with Bailey and her brother Connor playing lead roles. Bailey seems to be getting closer to Tim, hanging out with him and going to her Senior prom with him. But something doesn't feel right. Cody is always on her mind. When his mom calls them to let the family know Cody is missing in action in Iraq, he is more often on their minds and in their prayers. Cody miraculously escapes his captors, but is shot. When he finally comes back to Indiana, Bailey is the first one to see him and his injury, a prosthetic on his lower left leg. It's without a doubt that Bailey and Cody have something between them that is very special.
John Baxter marries Elaine Denning. We are caught up in John's emotions about making this next step. It is very difficult to know if getting remarried is the right thing to do since John loved his first wife Elizabeth so much. But through Elizabeth's letters, John knows he's doing the right thing. He's living his life that God gave him to the fullest, and he is happy.
The last part of the book ties up lose ends and brings a happy resolution to all. Katy and Dayne have Sophie Kathleen. Ashley and Landon are surprised when Janessa Belle comes into their lives...they thought all along they were going to have another son. When everyone is back home another surprise awaits Ashley. The family thinks John sold the Baxter family home so he could move into a new home with Elaine. But when Landon's grandfather passed away, he is surprised to receive a check that makes him able to buy the Baxter home for his family! I'm so happy the home is able to stay within the family!!

[Melissa (Semi Hiatus Until After the Holidays) · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's bittersweet to come to the final book in Kingsbury's Baxter family series. The characters almost feel like real people, and it's difficult to let them go. Her concluding installment is filled with spiritual insight and a moving, fitting ending. The theme of redemption is evident throughout the touching prose.

It's a time for saying goodbye, yet it's also a time for new beginnings. Dayne and Katy leave Hollywood to take on their new role in children's theater in Bloomington. Cody is fighting in Iraq, and Bailey deals with some confusing emotions regarding their relationship.

John and Elaine prepare to get married, but that means selling the beloved Baxter home. Each one of these family members and close friends must rely on their ties to each other and on their strong faith to see them through these tumultuous changes.
Review originally appeared in RT BookReviews

[Corryn Geheb · Rating 3 out of 5]

Still a great series I skimmed a lot of this book. I liked when Bailey flanigans was talked about and I loved! Watching her developing as well as her and Cody’s relationship. I also knew that Ashley’s baby was going by to be a girl. It was cute and the theme of the story was reallyyyy good. I love they kept bringing up psalm 130 and Philippians 4 two great life chapters. I’m glad Reagan and Luke got their stuff figure out and their redemption story was really powerful about going back to the beginning, being intentional, and forgiving even when you don’t want to.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

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[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the way the this series was wrapped! We know what is happening with all of the family members and there is plenty of story like for Kingsbury to choose anyone within the book and continue writing! I love the Baxter Family…the faith, grace, forgiveness, and hope that is shown, and the Bible verses and prayers that are referenced, are all so inspiring.

[Jacqueline I · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book along with all the others.

[Ruth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Karen Kingsbury can write. I have to give her that. I was in tears while reading this, and I'm not easily moved to tears by books. This is the last installment in a series of books about the Baxter family. The Baxters live in Bloomingdale (Illinois?) and at the time of this book the family consists of a widowed father, several adult children, with spouses, and grandchildren. I haven't read any of the other books in the series and in some ways this reminded me of Debbie Macomber's last Cedar Grove book--the ensemble had grown so large that much of the book was spent catching up with each one--and enough of the "back story" had to be given so that the characters actions and problems made sense. I guess that's an occupational hazard of series literature. In any case this book in centered around the widowed father selling the family homestead and moving into a new house with a new wife--who happened to be a good friend of the kids' mom. A couple of the kids are expecting and another is going through a very rough spot in his marriage. In a postscript, the author indicates that this is the last volume on the Baxters, but that they will be in the backgound in other books set in Bloomingdale. My guess is the main characters of her next book were a young woman and a soldier just returned from and Iraqi prison.
Kingsbury is an unabashadly Christian author. I think this book is a little heavy on the religion. I just prefer to see people live their faith rather than to read them talking about it.

[Taryn Spearey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ashley and Landon Baxter Blake are shocked to learn they're expecting a new baby, because of what happened to Sarah. They are relived to find out this baby is healthy.

Meanwhile, John Baxter is getting ready to marry Elaine. The whole family is excited; even Erin and her family are coming back to Bloomington for the occasion.

Ashley has a baby girl, and they name her Janessa Belle. Dayne and Katy also have a little girl at the end of the book, and they named her Sophie.

Can't wait to read more Baxter books!

[Pia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this book because I read the entire serie.
I like her books but what really anoyed me in this book was , she kept repeating the story's from the previous books.
It was 80% reading things I allready knew and 20% new story "information".
The 20% was good.
The 80% was irritating to re-read.

I like keeping up with the Baxters but please stop repeating every story of the familymembers in new books.

[Rebecca Ray · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dayne and Katy are starting a new chapter, re-opening CKT in their hometown and getting ready to welcome a new baby into their life. Life without Hollywood is pretty sweet :-)

The Flanigans are excited to be back in CKT, and they have lead roles in the first play. Jim has taken a job with an NFL team nearby, and all seems to be going well. Bailey really misses Cody though, and she's confused by another growing friendship.

John Baxter's getting ready for a wedding as he marries his dear friend Elaine. He deals with lingering emotions of guilt and begins attempting a real chance at a new beginning.

This book is one that ties up many of the ongoing storylines in the Baxter series. It allows us to get a sense of closure and to move on from their stories into new stories. I like many of the closures of the storylines, and I truly enjoyed this book. I'm going to quickly go through the major characters to give you a picture of them, and don't forget there will probably be spoilers, so if you don't want spoilers, now is the time to stop reading.

John: He sells the Baxter house, weds Elaine and truly starts a new chapter in his life in this book. He does it with some sadness and reflection. He still feels a little survivors guilt, but his love for Elaine and his joy in life shine through. It's a beautiful mix, and he is one of my favorite Baxter characters.

Ashley: She finds out that she's pregnant again. She really struggles with fear for her baby and the feeling that she could not have another baby die. Not to worry though. She gets a very happy ending, and a sense that her family is full of love.

Luke: His marriage to Reagan struggles most of the book. In fact, the word divorce is thrown around as a real possibility. It takes most of the book for him to realize that the root of their problems as a couple is the fact that they have never dealt with their feelings about the night of September 10, 2001. Dealing with their lingering guilt and feelings there will be the only way they can both truly move on without just putting a band-aid over the problem.

Katy: Things are blissful for her. She's directing CKT again. This is exactly where she wants to be. She's pregnant. Things are right with Dayne again. This whole book is her and Dayne's finally happily ever after.

Bailey: She misses Cody. She's excited about CKT, but everywhere she turns, she misses Cody. She begins a friendship with Tim Reed, and that helps some, but right now there is only one person for her in life, and that's Cody.

Landon: As always, he supports Ashley's crazy. He's loving, kind and unfailingly giving to his bride and to his boys. He deals with the pain of losing his grandfather, and with concerns over whether or not his newest addition will be healthy, but he's a rock. He reminds me of my own husband :-)

Reagan: She spends much of this book angry at Luke, guilty still over events that happened years before and not truly willing to fix the problems. It takes some time for her to turn around, but when she does face her guilt and her pain, she finds that it gives her the strength to finally be the girl that Luke fell in love with so many years ago. I love seeing the shedding of her guilt and her forgiveness of both Luke and herself in this book. It feels like she took off a 100 pound weight.

Jenny: She is always there to support her husband, her sons and her daughter. We see reflected through Jenny's character her concerns about Bailey, and also her realization of how perfect Bailey and Cody are together. We see her love for Cody as well, and her concern over him as if he were her son too.

Kari: Kari spends much of her point-of-view time in this book with a really old loose end in the series. She finds herself being a counselor to Angela Manning after Angela has attempted suicide. Because of God, she is able to truly know that she has forgiven Angela and she is able to show Jesus to Angela. Although I find this plot line to be kind of indulgent and unnecessary by the author, it is a beautiful way to illustrate how the love of Jesus leads us to forgiving others.

Dayne: He finally finds some peace and stability in his life. He is taking a break from Hollywood, is expecting his first child and is helping Katy with much of the running of CKT. It's nice to see his life so peaceful because his drama has dominated so many of the Baxter books.

Cody: He serves in Iraq. He's taken POW. We get to see this through his eyes. He is recovered, but he loses part of one of his legs, making him a disabled veteran. He struggles with loving Bailey, but with the feelings that he's not good enough for her. His storyline and Bailey's storyline are still unresolved, and will continue in future books, but their hug at the front door when he comes home after being injured is a rich payoff in that storyline.

So, after reading fourteen books in this series, these characters have become very real to me. This is not my favorite of the Baxter books, but it is a good, solid entry. I imagine that I will be starting the Above the Line series of the Baxter drama continuation soon enough, but I'm going to take a little break and read a non-fiction book or two before I continue through these novels since I'm at a good stopping place.

[Brent Soderstrum · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 4th book of the Sunrise series and the 14th book of the Baxter Family series.

I really enjoyed this book. We didn't have to deal with the Hollywood, the paparazzi, and the relationship of Katy and Dayne very much. Yes, Katy was pregnant and was having a baby at the same time as Ashley but really it was limited.

I had complained in the last book about Kingsbury not dealing with the relationship of Luke and Reagan. Things were bad and then they seemed to be good with no explanation as to how it had gotten better. Well this book dealt with their marital problems which was good. It showed us how Christians need to handle marital discord, which we all face in some form.

I also enjoyed the Bailey/Cody developing relationship. Cody was serving his country in Iraq. He was injured and came home. How does Baily react to his injury? How is Cody different? I won't go into to details but I have gone through what Cody dealt with to some extent. Reactions of others vary significantly.

Finally, although much of the big events in the book were predictable, they were good avenues to go down in the Baxter family soap opera. It will be interesting how Kingsbury continues to tell the Baxter family story in the next few series which aren't focused on the Baxters.

[Autumn Slaght · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5
Ahhh, closure. The sweet word that we all desire to hear.
I won't lie. Sunrise series wasn't my favorite series, but it was a very good one. I'm happy to be moving on to the other books in the series...I'm so excited for Above the Line and the Bailey Flanigan most of all!
Spoilers from here on down, so don't read if you haven't read the series yet!
John and Elaine... awww. <3
I'm still salty that Luke never reached out and made it right that it was him kissing Randi Wells, not Dayne but at least he and Reagan made up.
Bailey is still my favorite character. Reading about her and her love life as she makes plans for a future in theater, it reminds me so much of myself at her age and it's so nostalgic that it takes me back. I really love that. And Cody! For anyone who has been a soldier or has had a soldier close to you go missing in action, there are a few scenes in the book that might be triggering, but it was the most raw and real part of the story that just drew me in to the story of Bailey and Cody. For the record, I hope she winds up with Cody during her star series. I don't like Tim. :)
And the ending...AHHHHHHHHHHH! The ending! Well done, Karen Kingsbury! Way to wrap up a series and leave your readers cheering! :D :D

[Steve W · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finally made it through what I think is the end of the official Baxter series (14 books). The past nine I read were not available (from the library) in audiobook (my preferred format), so it took me quite a bit longer to finish these (Firstborn and Sunrise series).

As you may have guessed (from this being the end of the series, and from reading the description), , John (the patriarch) and Elaine finally get married. As I think we saw in the previous book, Luke and Reagan were having major problems because of (among other things) lack of attention, Luke's flirting (or having an affair) with other gals (coworker and Randi Wells), Reagan's interest in a friendly firefighter, dashed goals from their fateful misstep right before 9/11 (resulting in missed closure with Reagan's dad, a baby, shame of an out-of-wedlock pregnancy, career goals she should no longer fulfill). They have a lot of work to do in this story, and the family gathers around them to help however they can. Finally, after Dayne and Katy finished their movie commitments, they both returned to Bloomington, and Dayne bought the theater that was targeted for demolition, keeping CKT (Christian kids' theater) open, with Katy once again leading it..

[Lena Morrison · Rating 3 out of 5]

The thing about this book is that I saw so much of it coming. I knew someone in the family would buy the Baxter house. I knew Ashley and Katy’s births would go well. I knew John would somehow find Elizabeth’s blessing to remarry. That’s something that bugs me about Christian fiction-that the happy ending means getting what they want. And often, that makes the stories really predictable.

I did like what happened with Kari, though it felt a bit more contrived and less natural. The best part for me was the conflict between Luke and Reagan because it was so realistic. Their actions had consequences, and it’s true that Luke and Reagan’s marriage had always been on shaky ground. I didn’t like that at the very end they were totally “in love” again, because I felt that their relationship still needed some serious work.

I sound really negative, but at the end of the day, these are entertaining novels. There is plenty of drama and a few unexpected twists, so it’s a lighthearted read. Sometimes things get really deep, but it’s quite rare.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much wish that this book had been the end of the Baxter series. It closes out everyone’s personal arcs in a very sweet and sentimental way. Yes, it is dripping with emotion. But for the most part, the tone is one of joy. Unlike the previous books in the series, the focus isn’t on an unimaginable tragedy.

The author continues the series by focusing on different characters for the next 8 books. The Take One through Four series is next and focuses on Hollywood again. New characters are introduced while Baxter family members play side characters. After that is the Bailey Flanigan series. She was a side character in the Baxter series as a child and is a young adult in her own series.

The next book that brings the Baxter family back together with the original Characters is Coming Home. I wish I hadn’t read that book because the tragedy in that one is just too much. That is why I wish this book had been the end. Coming Home felt like it ruined all of the full circle moments from this book.

[Ashley Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no words to express how much this book and series encouraged me. 14 books later, The Baxter family went through so much trial and joy yet clings to the Lord through it all. Some books were a little more predictable than others, my favorite has to be Summer. With the birth and death of Sarah, I was moved to tears by how God used her life. I was so touched by each of the Baxter’s stories and I’m so thankful I was introduced to this series. There was something most special to me about Ashley and Landon’s story and love for each other, so Christ-like and love how they actually acknowledged that their own story shows God’s gift of redemption. I pray to know that type of love someday. But I was instead reminded of God’s love. God is good and faithful, and I love the lessons I learned about Him through each book. This encourages me to keep going through life one day at a time, for He loves me and He is good. ❤️

[Corinna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed every single Karen Kingsbury novel I've read so far (which thus far would just be this sunrise series). As usual, she didn't disappoint with the final book in the Sunrise series. Kingsbury fabulously wrapped up all the threads left from the previous novels--Bailey graduates high school and the relationships between both she and Tim, and her and Cody come to compelling conclusions (which ironically, are also beginning's). Ashley's grief over losing baby Sarah and fear of carrying subsequent children is rectified. Luke & Regan reach new heights. John & Elaine begin their new lives together, etc. If you are a fellow Christian (or even if you're not) and you're looking for a great series/author who writes uplifting yet realistic Christian based novels, rife with scripture and the struggles one truly undergoes trusting the Lord, you've found your mark!

[Karen Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my third book I have read of Karen Kingsbury and the first book talking about the Baxter series, which was hard to catch on at first and took awhile to get interested; however I loved how everything lead to God’s promises and family! My family used to be like The Baxter’s, but over time especially since my parents died and my brother moved gradually the entire unit isn’t the same! Of course, I still have my sister and one brother that lives close, but it isn’t anything like the Baxter family unit and loved how everything closed blending the new with the old discussing how beautiful the Sunset was; which was a perfect ending since I love the magnificent Sunset to close each day and chapter of our life! I know most people have already read all these books, but hope I didn’t give anything way to someone that wants to read it!

[Jackie Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Baxter Family Sunset

Sunset is an amazing story. Once again the Baxter family share heartaches and joys with an amazing faith and strength. Their love for God and each other bring them through every trial. There are a lot of changes as their family continues to expand.
What direction will their life take if John sells the Baxter house full of memories? The kids (other than Dayne) have spent their whole life at the Baxter House.

Will Dayne and Katy be OK? Will Landon and Ashley ever have a daughter? What about the rest of Bloomfield? Bailey Flanigan and Cody? Read Sunset to find the answers. The Baxter family and Bloomfield friends could be any family in small town America. A reader can make so many connections ax they share in life with the Baxter family.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an inspiring book about family love, disappointments that have a happy ending and faith in God. This family really knew how to lean on each other and love each other. All the family is back together in Bloomington. John has married Elaine. Katy and Dayne have a baby girl. Ashley and Landon have a baby girl. Landon and Reagan deal with forgiveness and their love is reignited. Everyone in the Baxter family is happy. Landon bought the family home for Ashley so the Baxter's can still gather there for parties despite John having married Elaine and moved into their own house. Just such a feel good book. I could go on for hours reading this authors books. They definitely make you believe anything is possible with God.

[Francisca Viola · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a really lovely story, the conclusion of this series of the Baxter family. Wholesome family values shown through people that show up and support each other. Feelings and opinions are expressed strongly for each other. Lots of love and details.
The only reason I gave it 4 out of 5 is most of the story-lines take 4 to 5 books to conclude.
Highly recommend this fiction author if you like Hallmark movies and when you are tired of reading too much smut. She has a way of taking you through the pain and the healing. Try Karen Kingsbury's "911 Series" books too. These are nostalgic and healing for the soul.

[Kendra Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

although i’m only barely halfway through with this whole series the end of this section was beautiful. The fact that dayne and katy could put God at the center of their relationship and work through everything and then welcome a precious child! And how landon and ashley have worked through multiple of issues and still are the picture of a christ like marriage. Even thought this family and series is fiction it’s still a beautiful picture of a christlike family and helps provide readers with insight on a strength only given through jesus alone

[Mandi Navarre Eschenbach · Rating 5 out of 5]

The truth that perseverance develops hope became clear in the story of the Baxter Family.

Luke and Reagan take a journey down memory lane to seek reconciliation after infidelity.

John finds a letter written to him from his late wife, encouraging him to move forward and be happy.

Kari finds forgiveness with her late husband’s mistress.

And Katy and Dayne reopen the CKT theater.

“Sunset” takes us back to characters from past Baxter books and shows us God’s love. The truth they all found along the journey of life, along the walk of faith, spoke volumes: Redemption!

[Debby · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I have enjoyed this series, the last two books have been just a bit disappointing. I love how the focus is on God, and how it is the truth of the scriptures quoted that supports what the author writes. That God is the author of our lives and we should give glory and honor to Him always, to rest in Him, to trust in Him. But, sometimes this story was just a bit much. Not for God, but just as fiction. I thought there were too many “strings” to pull together for a satisfying ending. Still seems like there should be another book. Just my thoughts.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This might have been my favorite of the Sunrise series. Yes, the Baxters can be a little gooey sometimes, but they're a family to aspire to: leaning on their faith in God in the hard times, rejoicing and weeping together and cheering each other on and being there for each other. Even though these are fictional, the Baxter books often remind us of God's forgiveness and love and power in our not-so-fictional problems.