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Reviewed by Robert A. Groves for Readers' Favorite
Baker Vaughan by Stuart Hotchkiss follows Baker’s long journey from an idealistic adolescent to a broken, middle-aged adult in need of redemption. The book begins by finding Baker in Virginia, deciding on a profession. He feels a strong call to the ministry, but his family is not supportive. However, Baker presses on and along the way finds a soulmate, Wendy. The two pursue a life of ministry and service as they build a youth camp, attend college, and start a family. Their bliss is soon shattered when a profound tragedy occurs that completely changes Baker’s trajectory. Abandoning the idea of ministry, Baker spends decades in New York building a successful advertising business and giving love another chance. But that doesn’t last either, which leads Baker to Idaho. There he seeks meaning again through religion and church involvement. Will facing his flaws ultimately lead to a future that sustains Baker’s needs?
Stuart Hotchkiss’s Baker Vaughan is ultimately a story of redemption and starting again. The author writes with care, giving Baker enough depth so that his struggles with faith and grief feel real rather than manufactured. Baker is flawed, but that is what makes him interesting, and his growth unfolds in a way that lends his tale believability. Combining present-day events with important experiences from Baker’s past creates an atmospheric feel for the novel. The other characters who come into Baker’s life, such as Wendy, Karl, Libby, and Darcy, provide context for Baker’s change. The themes of redemption through imperfection and tension between personal faith and institutional religion are handled with sensitivity. It is an astounding story of love, success, loss, and finding your way back. Readers will not be disappointed by adding this one to their reading list.
