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Firstborn #2
Forgiven
A Deadly Accident
The Christian Kids Theater group is devastated by a tragedy greater than any of them could’ve imagined. Now their director, Katy Hart, must find a way to walk the kids through their grief and give them a reason to believe again. But will hatred and revenge have the final word?
An Aching Emptiness
Dayne Matthews is working on what could be his best movie yet. Still, he feels empty and unfocused, aching for real love and the family he’ll never know. Then a friend tells him about a teaching center and a way to become like God. Is this the answer Dayne’s been searching for?
A Shocking Discovery
John Baxter reconnects with an old friend and shares a buried secret, one that he and his wife kept hidden all their married lives. Now—in his wife’s honor—he decides to continue a very special search. But in the process he makes a critical mistake and one of his daughters stumbles onto a letter she was never supposed to see. For the Baxters, grace and redemption will play a greater role in this season than ever before.
A story of God’s divine leading and the realization that peace comes only after forgiveness Tyndale House Publishers
The Christian Kids Theater group is devastated by a tragedy greater than any of them could’ve imagined. Now their director, Katy Hart, must find a way to walk the kids through their grief and give them a reason to believe again. But will hatred and revenge have the final word?
An Aching Emptiness
Dayne Matthews is working on what could be his best movie yet. Still, he feels empty and unfocused, aching for real love and the family he’ll never know. Then a friend tells him about a teaching center and a way to become like God. Is this the answer Dayne’s been searching for?
A Shocking Discovery
John Baxter reconnects with an old friend and shares a buried secret, one that he and his wife kept hidden all their married lives. Now—in his wife’s honor—he decides to continue a very special search. But in the process he makes a critical mistake and one of his daughters stumbles onto a letter she was never supposed to see. For the Baxters, grace and redemption will play a greater role in this season than ever before.
A story of God’s divine leading and the realization that peace comes only after forgiveness Tyndale House Publishers
384 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
399 people are currently reading
3768 people want to read
About the author
Karen Kingsbury
200 books11.8k 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 273 reviews
February 6, 2017
I return to this series when I need a wholesome break from contemporary literary fiction with all of its dysfunction and navel-gazing. Maybe I'm old-fashioned, but I relate much more to these normal characters trying to live good lives than to many of the characters in the books featured in the NY Times Book Review. These books are clean soap operas - pure escapism.
May 29, 2018
Karen Kingsbury’s second novel in the Firstborn series is a beautiful story on forgiveness. It will tug at your heartstrings as the characters, Katy and Dayne, try to maneuver through some tricky, emotional, messes. And the Baxter family? Yeah, the Baxter family is full of love and life and I can’t get enough of them. You fall in love with each member of that family as if they are truly part of your own. More drama unfolds in this novel, Forgiven, as it leads into what book three has in store. Looking forward to it!
January 2, 2020
Karen Kingsbury writes very well with powerful plots,wonderful characters,and interesting crises about faith and family relationships. She's quite good at drawing characters that readers respond to emotionally,and her plots are entertaining as well as deeply Christian. I really have loved following the Baxter family story.
February 21, 2020
Audiobook and LOVED IT. Now I want to listen to all of the Baxter family books on audio. So uplifting and entertaining while driving in the car, and you don’t have to pay too much attention 😆 Great sequel to “Fame”, the first book in the series. I thought Karen Kingsbury grew the main characters, Dane and Katie, well and I enjoyed the storyline of their relationship growing/changing. Can’t wait to read with my eyes (or hopefully ears!) the rest!
October 28, 2023
I really enjoy these stories, as one is a continuation of another. You never really know what is going to happen next. I did kind of predict what Ashley did in this book. It's a full drama and I'm completely invested. I really respected Katy for what she did in this book. Also, I can't wait to see where the Dayne situation goes with the Baxter family. Surely he can't be kept a secret forever??😄
May 10, 2018
Forgiven 4⭐️
Dayne is finding peace and forgiveness through Gods word and in church.
Katy is putting on a new show of Annie for the CKT.
Ashley and Landon are —- well its a spoiler but it made my heart so happy!
So cute and cant wait to continue the series!
Dayne is finding peace and forgiveness through Gods word and in church.
Katy is putting on a new show of Annie for the CKT.
Ashley and Landon are —- well its a spoiler but it made my heart so happy!
So cute and cant wait to continue the series!
December 19, 2024
3.5. It was another good book and I honestly even teared up in this book. The theme was forgiveness and see how God can soften the hearts of anyone when trusting in him.
December 5, 2014
I think that Karen Kingsbury books are awesome. They all have a really good story and tension that makes you want to keep reading. This is the second book to the Firstborn Series and I like them a lot. Can't wait to finish them and go on to another series...haha:) I haven't mentioned this in the other review, but these books are Christian which also makes me read to know more about Christian life... At first I just really thought these books were only for adults, but they are really good and I enjoy reading them. :)
June 8, 2011
I love Karen Kingsbury books and this Series is NO Exception!!! They always make you think about the different situations the family is going through and how they handle them with the help of our Gracious God. They know no matter the situation that GOD is always right there beside you. It doesn't matter if you have strayed away from him in the past, All You Have To Do Is Ask For His Forgiveness and He Will Be There When You Need Him... ALWAYS!!! I Love Him So Much
May 14, 2008
Another A+ for Karen!!!
April 25, 2019
Karen is just messing with my feelings and she’s so good at that. But she’s also kind of cruel.
My point is: this book/this series might not be like the greatest or finest piece of literature out there and the translation definitely wasn’t one of the bests, but the way the author managed to express the characters’ feelings and how she put things head to head it’s amazing. I’m so curious about how things will fall into place eventually and I’m sure it’s going to be awesome and not what I expected.
And last, but not least, I wanted to say a little bit about the way Karen pictured different characters in their relationship with God. Like in the “Redemption” series, she just pointed out so many scenarios and so many possibilities and how she managed to highlight God’s purpose and plans for these people is just amazing and I love the message in this book in particular. A message of forgiveness, love instead of hate and peace instead of chaos.
My point is: this book/this series might not be like the greatest or finest piece of literature out there and the translation definitely wasn’t one of the bests, but the way the author managed to express the characters’ feelings and how she put things head to head it’s amazing. I’m so curious about how things will fall into place eventually and I’m sure it’s going to be awesome and not what I expected.
And last, but not least, I wanted to say a little bit about the way Karen pictured different characters in their relationship with God. Like in the “Redemption” series, she just pointed out so many scenarios and so many possibilities and how she managed to highlight God’s purpose and plans for these people is just amazing and I love the message in this book in particular. A message of forgiveness, love instead of hate and peace instead of chaos.
February 1, 2024
I really loved reading this book!
I loved getting to see more of Dayne and Katy both in their individual lives but also their moments together. I do wish though that their relationship would have remained as just friends for this entire book since their lives individually were at very different places specially since Dayne is/was dating Kelly, no matter that he clearly doesn't love her. But saying that I do like the hints and little previews as to how much they really feel for each other and to what their relationship might become in the future books.
I also loved seeing more of Ashley and Landon, they're my favorites!
I can't wait until everyone finds out about Dayne being their brother, hopefully it finally happens in the next book!
This book did make me cry on so many occasions, when the accident happened, when Dayne found his forgiveness in God and when the theatre kids forgive the kid that caused the accident, that scene was so beautifully written, I loved it so much.
I loved getting to see more of Dayne and Katy both in their individual lives but also their moments together. I do wish though that their relationship would have remained as just friends for this entire book since their lives individually were at very different places specially since Dayne is/was dating Kelly, no matter that he clearly doesn't love her. But saying that I do like the hints and little previews as to how much they really feel for each other and to what their relationship might become in the future books.
I also loved seeing more of Ashley and Landon, they're my favorites!
I can't wait until everyone finds out about Dayne being their brother, hopefully it finally happens in the next book!
This book did make me cry on so many occasions, when the accident happened, when Dayne found his forgiveness in God and when the theatre kids forgive the kid that caused the accident, that scene was so beautifully written, I loved it so much.
July 16, 2020
Always fantastic, encouraging, and strengthening. I devour these!
April 23, 2021
This book series keeps you on your toes! Can’t wait to read the next book in this series!!!
July 9, 2021
This book made me feel so many emotions
February 4, 2023
I am in love with this series! It has been tugging at my heart, there has been happiness and sadness all at the same time, promises made and broken.
I can not wait to keep reading the rest of this series!!
10/10 recommend!
I can not wait to keep reading the rest of this series!!
10/10 recommend!
March 24, 2024
The theme of peace and forgiveness is well woven through this Baxter family book. Loved it!
February 6, 2018
I loved this book!! Great series!! sad book!! can't wait to read the next book in the series!!
June 14, 2025
The writing isn’t 5 stars, but Karen can draw me into a story like no one else. The story was definitely worth five!!!
November 26, 2017
This book continued to focus mainly on Dayne Matthews and his life of stardom and always being followed by paparazzi. He is making a movie that originally would have had him starring with Katy Hart. But after the incident with the crazed stalker Katy is happily back in Bloomington directing Christian Kids Theater. The next play is Annie and auditions for parts are taking place. Dayne will be starring in the movie with his live-in girlfriend, Kelly Parker.
After a day of auditions and working on the play takes place, a tragic accident involving a mom and four children occurs. A drunk driver, Jeremy Fisher, hits the van, killing a young boy and Sarah Jo Stryker, a girl with a beautiful voice that would have brought her many lead rolls in future plays. The children at Christian Kids Theater learn a valuable lesson in forgiveness over time by going to Bible studies and
talking about life’s tragedies with Katy. They even visit the prison and get to talk to Jeremy.
Dayne Matthews can’t get Katy Hart out of his mind. He’s living with his leading actress in his current movie, and thinking about joining a new religion, Kabbalah. When he goes to Bloomington a few days early before filming begins, he rekindles a relationship with Katy. Katy is starting to have feelings for Dayne as well. But they come from two different worlds, and Katy still feels any type of relationship couldn’t work. But Katy does meet with Dayne one last time to give him information about Kabbalah saying it’s not right for him. She also gives him a piece of advice...read the note his biological mother left on a picture he has of her. It’s a good place to start with his spiritual journey. Dayne takes her advice when he gets back to Hollywood. He no longer is interested in Kabbalah. Reading his mother’s note on her picture makes Dayne want to be a better person, maybe even following God. He keeps his promise of being at Bloomington for the opening of the Annie play. Unfortunately, he has no time to talk to Katy or he’ll miss his flight back.
Dayne at least sees Katy as well as his sisters. He doesn’t think he’ll ever let them know that he is their brother. It would be too complicated, and the paparazzi could mess up the Baxter family’s private lives.
Brooke’s daughter Hayley continues to get better from her drowning. She is now walking with a walker!
Kari and Ryan help Ashley and Landon paint sets for the play.
Ashley finds a letter in her dad’s room marked “Firstborn.” Even though her dad told her not to bother the letters, that he would make copies for all the kids, Ashley thinks she could do her father a favor and give the letter to her oldest sister, Brooke. But when curiosity has her open and read the letter, she finds out the secret her parents have never told the family. Her parents gave up a son before they were married.
Erin and Luke are still living in Texas and New York. They try to keep in touch with the family as much as possible.
John Baxter has been enjoying his friendship with Elaine Denning, a widow. They go to the farmer’s market every Saturday and John confides his secret to her about his firstborn son. After Ashley finds the letter her mother wrote and talks to her father, they both agree not to tell anyone until the whole family is together for spring break.
The Flanigan family, with its six children, is becoming an important fixture in Bloomington. Bailey and her brother Connor are involved in CKT. Jenny and her husband Jim try to be good listeners and guide Katy and their children in the right direction with their lives.
After a day of auditions and working on the play takes place, a tragic accident involving a mom and four children occurs. A drunk driver, Jeremy Fisher, hits the van, killing a young boy and Sarah Jo Stryker, a girl with a beautiful voice that would have brought her many lead rolls in future plays. The children at Christian Kids Theater learn a valuable lesson in forgiveness over time by going to Bible studies and
talking about life’s tragedies with Katy. They even visit the prison and get to talk to Jeremy.
Dayne Matthews can’t get Katy Hart out of his mind. He’s living with his leading actress in his current movie, and thinking about joining a new religion, Kabbalah. When he goes to Bloomington a few days early before filming begins, he rekindles a relationship with Katy. Katy is starting to have feelings for Dayne as well. But they come from two different worlds, and Katy still feels any type of relationship couldn’t work. But Katy does meet with Dayne one last time to give him information about Kabbalah saying it’s not right for him. She also gives him a piece of advice...read the note his biological mother left on a picture he has of her. It’s a good place to start with his spiritual journey. Dayne takes her advice when he gets back to Hollywood. He no longer is interested in Kabbalah. Reading his mother’s note on her picture makes Dayne want to be a better person, maybe even following God. He keeps his promise of being at Bloomington for the opening of the Annie play. Unfortunately, he has no time to talk to Katy or he’ll miss his flight back.
Dayne at least sees Katy as well as his sisters. He doesn’t think he’ll ever let them know that he is their brother. It would be too complicated, and the paparazzi could mess up the Baxter family’s private lives.
Brooke’s daughter Hayley continues to get better from her drowning. She is now walking with a walker!
Kari and Ryan help Ashley and Landon paint sets for the play.
Ashley finds a letter in her dad’s room marked “Firstborn.” Even though her dad told her not to bother the letters, that he would make copies for all the kids, Ashley thinks she could do her father a favor and give the letter to her oldest sister, Brooke. But when curiosity has her open and read the letter, she finds out the secret her parents have never told the family. Her parents gave up a son before they were married.
Erin and Luke are still living in Texas and New York. They try to keep in touch with the family as much as possible.
John Baxter has been enjoying his friendship with Elaine Denning, a widow. They go to the farmer’s market every Saturday and John confides his secret to her about his firstborn son. After Ashley finds the letter her mother wrote and talks to her father, they both agree not to tell anyone until the whole family is together for spring break.
The Flanigan family, with its six children, is becoming an important fixture in Bloomington. Bailey and her brother Connor are involved in CKT. Jenny and her husband Jim try to be good listeners and guide Katy and their children in the right direction with their lives.
June 22, 2015
What a tragedy! But once again, Karen Kingsbury shares the power of forgiveness! It may seem like "an old, overused" word, applicable only to the most hellacious situations. But time and time again, we're shown how hearts are healed, relationships are mended and hurt is forgotten
just by forgiving
.
The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him.
Daniel 9:9
When you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.
Mark 11:25
Of course, there are so much more adages on forgiveness (yes, it's that popular!). It's too available, but at the same time, it's too difficult to use.... That's why we can use it with God's grace.
Sharing one of my favorite songs from my crush (High School lang!!? Hahaha!):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NuD1r...
The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him.
Daniel 9:9
When you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.
Mark 11:25
Of course, there are so much more adages on forgiveness (yes, it's that popular!). It's too available, but at the same time, it's too difficult to use.... That's why we can use it with God's grace.
Sharing one of my favorite songs from my crush (High School lang!!? Hahaha!):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NuD1r...
May 12, 2010
Another fulfilling story. Sometimes the 2nd or greater in a series disappoints. Not this one. Just as wonderful as the first book in the Firstborn Series. The characters continue to unveil pieces of themselves to the reader. They could be your neighbors, friends or family. So glad the author fills in all the extras. I look forward the rest of the series. So many story lines to wonder about.
April 23, 2015
These books are like TV shows. They have intrigue and end up sometimes with a cliffhanger. Then you wait for the next episode. I really enjoy the Hollywood aspect of this series. I wish Hallmark or the Christian station would pick these books up and turn them into a TV show. After all the books pretty much read like a script. I'm looking forward to find out what happens to Dayne and Katy next.
Read
August 4, 2011As always this book, like the ones before it, was awesome! Not much more to say. Im glad things turned out the way they did with Jeremy...really puts things we see on the news and in newspapers into perspective. We dont always know the whole story and God would rather us love ther person, pray for them and not be judgemental and harbor ill will.
July 29, 2012
Ooh wat ben ik blij dat zo toch heel langzaam de familie Baxter er weer is.
Geweldige opvolger van Beroemd maar ook zeker van de Baxterserie.
Je zit ook meteen weer in het verhaal of je er nooit uit geweest bent,en mijn favoriete personage Aslhey komt weer heerlijk aan bod.
Nu is het even wachten weer op de volgende deel "gevonden".
Ik heb er weer van genoten.
Geweldige opvolger van Beroemd maar ook zeker van de Baxterserie.
Je zit ook meteen weer in het verhaal of je er nooit uit geweest bent,en mijn favoriete personage Aslhey komt weer heerlijk aan bod.
Nu is het even wachten weer op de volgende deel "gevonden".
Ik heb er weer van genoten.
August 3, 2016
Despite being a little annoyed with the writing style (ever chapter ends with a dun dun dun sentence), I find myself getting sucked into the story and wanting to pick up the next in the series as soon as I finish.
Read
March 15, 2008This whole series is excellent! I can't put her books down.
April 17, 2008
Dayne Matthews finds forgiveness in God and his priorities change.
September 12, 2014
2nd book in second Baxter series. 3.5 stars--Dayne finds forgiveness and family.
January 28, 2019
Love this series but please do yourself a favor and start with book 1 in the Baxter series so you can build relationships with the characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews