Step into the heartwarming world of The Baxter Family, where faith, love, and forgiveness weave a tapestry of unforgettable stories! Penned by Karen Kingsbury, the #1 New York Times bestselling author, this Christian fiction saga follows the Baxter clan through life’s joys and challenges, offering readers a soul-stirring blend of drama and inspiration. With over 25 million copies sold, the series captures hearts with its relatable characters and timeless biblical truths.
Centered in Bloomington, Indiana, The Baxter Family series spans multiple interconnected sagas—Redemption, Firstborn, Sunrise, and more—chronicling the lives of John and Elizabeth Baxter and their five adult children. Whether you’re a fan of emotional family dramas or seeking stories that uplift your spirit, this series is a must-read for anyone craving hope-filled narratives.
How The Baxter Family Began
Karen Kingsbury, often hailed as the queen of Christian fiction, birthed The Baxter Family in 2002 during a cross-country flight. Inspired by her desire to craft ‘life-changing fiction,’ she envisioned a sprawling family saga rooted in faith. By the time her plane landed, the Baxters—complete with names, backstories, and personalities—had come alive in her mind. Kingsbury’s journalism background lent her a knack for gripping storytelling, while her deep Christian faith infused the series with spiritual depth. What started as the Redemption series grew into a beloved franchise, spawning over 28 novels and even a Prime Video TV adaptation that premiered in 2024.
The Heart of The Baxter Family
The Baxter Family series kicks off with Redemption, where Kari Baxter Jacobs faces her husband’s infidelity but chooses to honor her marriage through faith, embodying the theme that ‘love is a decision.’ Remember, the second book, dives into Ashley Baxter’s emotional journey post-9/11, highlighting the importance of valuing others. Sunrise follows Dayne and Katy’s romance amid paparazzi chaos, while Love Story traces John and Elizabeth’s enduring love, showing its generational impact. Each novel stands alone but shines brightest when read in order, weaving a rich narrative of interconnected lives.
Kingsbury’s style is intimate and cinematic, pulling readers into the Baxters’ kitchen table conversations and heartfelt prayers. Themes of forgiveness, redemption, and God’s grace permeate the series, grounded in real-world struggles like loss, betrayal, and reconciliation. Set in the cozy, small-town charm of Bloomington, Indiana, the stories feel both universal and deeply personal, resonating with readers of all faiths. Kingsbury’s ability to tackle tough topics—like grief or family secrets—while offering hope makes the series a beacon in Christian fiction.
Why The Baxter Family Resonates
The Baxter Family series has left an indelible mark on Christian fiction, inspiring millions with its blend of raw emotion and spiritual wisdom. Fans praise Kingsbury’s relatable characters, often feeling like the Baxters are their own family. The series’ TV adaptation on Prime Video, launched in March 2024, brought the Baxters to new audiences, staying true to the books’ heart. Kingsbury’s work transcends the Christian genre, drawing over half her readership from non-Christian backgrounds, proving her stories’ universal appeal. Her Red Carpet Book Party in Bloomington draws thousands annually, cementing the series’ cultural footprint.
- Publication Years: 2002–present
- Number of Books: Over 28 across multiple series
- Notable Achievement: Inspired a Prime Video series (2024)
- Collaborator: Gary Smalley co-authored the Redemption series
Grab Redemption and dive into The Baxter Family’s inspiring world of faith and love! Whether you’re seeking a heartfelt read or a series to share with family, the Baxters will leave fingerprints on your heart.