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Redeeming Waters
Must a young woman choose between her commitment to her marriage…and to God?
Brianna was ten years old when she first met twenty-five year old David R. Shepherd, a devout and gifted gospel recording artist who would ultimately become world renowned megastar, King d.Avid. He left an impression on Brianna she would never forget. And they were destined to meet again…
Brianna's best friend, Alana Norwood, hasn't had the best encounters with men, but she's always been a good friend to Brianna, no matter what situation the two may find themselves in. But despite their bond, the next time Brianna encounters King, she's a lonely young wife seeking solace in religious studies. While Alana's quest for fame has her living a life that seems to be going nowhere fast, King's companionship offers Brianna the deep emotional connection she longs for. But when both a tragedy and a blessing enters Brianna's life, she finds herself wrestling with questions of faith, fidelity, forgiveness, and the sovereignty of God…like never before.
"Griggs address[es] the challenges of living by Biblical rules with homespun humor. Fans will be pleased.” -Publishers Weekly on The Truth Is the Light
"A smart novel that addresses an issue that many in the church shy away from-divorce-with frank realism.”-Library Journal on Practicing What You Preach
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
18 people are currently reading
325 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Davis Griggs
44 books251 followersVanessa Davis Griggs is the author of novels: DESTINY UNLIMITED, THE ROSE OF JERICHO, PROMISES BEYOND JORDAN, WINGS OF GRACE, BLESSED TRINITY, STRONGHOLDS, IF MEMORY SERVES and PRACTICING WHAT YOU PREACH, GOODNESS AND MERCY, THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT, RAY OF HOPE,, REDEEMING WATERS, FOREVER SOUL TIES, THE OTHER SIDE OF GOODNESS, THE OTHER SIDE OF DARE, THE OTHER SIDE OF DIVINE, STEELY GRAY and COUNTLESS BLESSINGS.
Visit my Web site at: www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com"
Visit my Web site at: www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 30, 2011
Redeeming Waters by Vanessa Favis Griggs gives reader a biblical lesson about David and Bathseba. Brianna was a young girl when she met a music celebrity named King d.Avid and he left an impression on her that she has carried with her into her adulthood. Brianna is now a married woman and through her husband Unzell's job she has a chance to meet King d.Avid again.
When Brianna experience the tragic loss of her husband an unsual comforter comes to aid her that will turn everyone's heads. Alana, Brianna's best friend see a change in her and has a hard time understanding what her friend is going through.
Everything happens for a reason and readers will be surprised with the ending of this entertaining book with a religious undertone. I enjoyed this books message and how it is consistant with the 11th chapter of 2Samuel. I recommend this book to others.
When Brianna experience the tragic loss of her husband an unsual comforter comes to aid her that will turn everyone's heads. Alana, Brianna's best friend see a change in her and has a hard time understanding what her friend is going through.
Everything happens for a reason and readers will be surprised with the ending of this entertaining book with a religious undertone. I enjoyed this books message and how it is consistant with the 11th chapter of 2Samuel. I recommend this book to others.
March 22, 2018
As a book of faith, felt like it missed the mark (though missing the mark is what it was all about, so maybe it actually hit the mark and I just didn't like what the mark was - I think that's the truth of it).
Never liked King d.Avid. Felt like he was a hypocrite in his faith. True in his love, hypocrite in his faith. Never related to Brianna.
Not a lot of inspiration to this book.
Want to read a TRULY inspiring book? I mean like beyond inspiring. Read Francine Rivers, A Voice in the Wind and An Echo in the Darkness. Those 2 books shine a spotlight on so so much that is missing in this book. Mana for the soul compared to cardboard (here) of the emotions.
Never liked King d.Avid. Felt like he was a hypocrite in his faith. True in his love, hypocrite in his faith. Never related to Brianna.
Not a lot of inspiration to this book.
Want to read a TRULY inspiring book? I mean like beyond inspiring. Read Francine Rivers, A Voice in the Wind and An Echo in the Darkness. Those 2 books shine a spotlight on so so much that is missing in this book. Mana for the soul compared to cardboard (here) of the emotions.
February 22, 2016
The book starts off extremely slow but picks up around chapter 6. While I could definitely figure out some parts of the books there still was some element of surprise. I would definitely try another one of the authors books just to see if there was any growth. Not saying it was a horrible read just expected a bit more
Want to read
August 26, 2011I won this on Goodreads. I received my copy on December 3.
May 29, 2024
A good read! I couldn't put it down after the first few chapters. I enjoyed the Bible verses at the beginning of each chapter. I had never heard of or read anything about a Mikvah ritual bath, probably because I'm not Jewish. Anyway, I'm going to do it on my vacation in the Bahamas this summer, for my body purification...Great book!
September 13, 2017
Good and easy read.
December 3, 2017
Encouraging, Christian based. So overly preachy.
March 6, 2020
As always, a fantastic read from beginning to end.
Read
January 12, 2017Redeeming Waters is my most favorite read, up to now, by Vanessa Davis Griggs. This was a real education. Vanessa really educated me in such a way (without being preachy). For the first time in a long time, I found myself utilizing Biblical commentary to read along with the book. Did I have to do that? No. Nevertheless, the manner in which she incorporated scripture and caused me to want to read and know more, I did just that.
This book was a lesson in living, loving, repentance and forgiveness. This book caused me to also check myself. Redeeming Waters helps the reader to understand the walk by seeing the importance of "water" as it is described and declared in the Bible.
Water is first mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 1:2 and last mentioned in the Bible in Revelations 22:17. The word stipulates that water is important in cleansing, purification, deliverance, rescue and a number of other entities. One of my most favorite scriptures: John 4: 13-14 Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water that I give them will never thirst (NIV) was echoed throughout this book. From Brianna to Alana (childhood friends), from David Shepherd to Unzell (Brianna's loves), Vincent, Kendall, Pearson and others we see and witness their walk.
This book was wonderfully and beautifully written. I loved the scriptures at the beginning of the chapters. Yes, it was long. But, understand it was worth every page. If you read it...you will be enlightened. There were times when I laughed, cried and screamed. Like the major characters, I was able to see the beauty of "redeeming waters.".
This book was a lesson in living, loving, repentance and forgiveness. This book caused me to also check myself. Redeeming Waters helps the reader to understand the walk by seeing the importance of "water" as it is described and declared in the Bible.
Water is first mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 1:2 and last mentioned in the Bible in Revelations 22:17. The word stipulates that water is important in cleansing, purification, deliverance, rescue and a number of other entities. One of my most favorite scriptures: John 4: 13-14 Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water that I give them will never thirst (NIV) was echoed throughout this book. From Brianna to Alana (childhood friends), from David Shepherd to Unzell (Brianna's loves), Vincent, Kendall, Pearson and others we see and witness their walk.
This book was wonderfully and beautifully written. I loved the scriptures at the beginning of the chapters. Yes, it was long. But, understand it was worth every page. If you read it...you will be enlightened. There were times when I laughed, cried and screamed. Like the major characters, I was able to see the beauty of "redeeming waters.".
October 2, 2018
Very Seldom do I read books more than once, but I had to read this one again, since it's one of my favorites from a favorite author. A wonder and spiritually filled story that's a modern day telling of King David and Bathsheba from the bible. very well written and you're able to get so many spiritual nuggets from the story.
May 19, 2014
Title: Redeeming Waters
Author: Vanessa Davis Griggs
Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corporation
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating 4.5
Review:
"Redeeming Waters" by Vanessa Davis Griggs.....
"Brianna is 10 years old when she first meets 25-year-old David R. Shepherd, a devout and gifted gospel recording artist who ultimately becomes world renowned megastar, King d.Avid. He leaves an impression on Brianna she will never forget. And they are destined to meet again."
What I enjoy from reading "Redeeming Waters"...was how this author featured this story around David and Bathesba in a new and very interesting way. There will be a twist on this storyline as well as some lessons that will be learned as this author gets to the point in the amazing read. This will be a read that you may wrestle with the questions of 'faith, fidelity and forgiveness. I found the
characters Brianna and Alana's were so real in their friendship. Again, I loved the way this author brought in the scriptures at the beginning of each chapter of how it related to the story. "Redeeming Waters" was definitely a page turner that will keep your attention to the end. Yes, this was a love story that will keep you guessing, thinking, some laughter, maybe a tear or two and in the end you get to see the power of God's love.
Author: Vanessa Davis Griggs
Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corporation
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating 4.5
Review:
"Redeeming Waters" by Vanessa Davis Griggs.....
"Brianna is 10 years old when she first meets 25-year-old David R. Shepherd, a devout and gifted gospel recording artist who ultimately becomes world renowned megastar, King d.Avid. He leaves an impression on Brianna she will never forget. And they are destined to meet again."
What I enjoy from reading "Redeeming Waters"...was how this author featured this story around David and Bathesba in a new and very interesting way. There will be a twist on this storyline as well as some lessons that will be learned as this author gets to the point in the amazing read. This will be a read that you may wrestle with the questions of 'faith, fidelity and forgiveness. I found the
characters Brianna and Alana's were so real in their friendship. Again, I loved the way this author brought in the scriptures at the beginning of each chapter of how it related to the story. "Redeeming Waters" was definitely a page turner that will keep your attention to the end. Yes, this was a love story that will keep you guessing, thinking, some laughter, maybe a tear or two and in the end you get to see the power of God's love.
May 19, 2014
Title: Redeeming Waters
Author: Vanessa Davis Griggs
Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corporation
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating 4.5
Review:
"Redeeming Waters" by Vanessa Davis Griggs.....
"Brianna is 10 years old when she first meets 25-year-old David R. Shepherd, a devout and gifted gospel recording artist who ultimately becomes world renowned megastar, King d.Avid. He leaves an impression on Brianna she will never forget. And they are destined to meet again."
What I enjoy from reading "Redeeming Waters"...was how this author featured this story around David and Bathesba in a new and very interesting way. There will be a twist on this storyline as well as some lessons that will be learned as this author gets to the point in the amazing read. This will be a read that you may wrestle with the questions of 'faith, fidelity and forgiveness. I found the
characters Brianna and Alana's were so real in their friendship. Again, I loved the way this author brought in the scriptures at the beginning of each chapter of how it related to the story. "Redeeming Waters" was definitely a page turner that will keep your attention to the end. Yes, this was a love story that will keep you guessing, thinking, some laughter, maybe a tear or two and in the end you get to see the power of God's love.
Author: Vanessa Davis Griggs
Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corporation
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating 4.5
Review:
"Redeeming Waters" by Vanessa Davis Griggs.....
"Brianna is 10 years old when she first meets 25-year-old David R. Shepherd, a devout and gifted gospel recording artist who ultimately becomes world renowned megastar, King d.Avid. He leaves an impression on Brianna she will never forget. And they are destined to meet again."
What I enjoy from reading "Redeeming Waters"...was how this author featured this story around David and Bathesba in a new and very interesting way. There will be a twist on this storyline as well as some lessons that will be learned as this author gets to the point in the amazing read. This will be a read that you may wrestle with the questions of 'faith, fidelity and forgiveness. I found the
characters Brianna and Alana's were so real in their friendship. Again, I loved the way this author brought in the scriptures at the beginning of each chapter of how it related to the story. "Redeeming Waters" was definitely a page turner that will keep your attention to the end. Yes, this was a love story that will keep you guessing, thinking, some laughter, maybe a tear or two and in the end you get to see the power of God's love.
April 20, 2020
1. Susan Spain gave a wonderful performance.
2. My favorite part of the book was the relationship between Brianna and Alana before the secret.
3. The author fell short at the end of the book when Brianna continued to hide the truth. Brianna’s self-righteous attitude was ridiculous. The author missed a moment of growth for Brianna when she continued to conceal the truth and insisted on pointing out Alana’s shortcomings. Brianna said she would not lie about her pregnancy, but was quick to deceive Alana (deception by omission is a lie). Brianna also disregarded Alana’s feelings about changes with their friendship, this is a textbook example of how to lose a life long friendship.
3. Although this book was written to parallel the biblical story of David and Bathsheba, I was not convinced that king d.Avid had the heart of a servant like David from the Bible. I did not like d.Avid or Brianna individually or as a couple.
4. The author did not do a good job of helping me understand why Mack adopted Jonathan’s son Melvin. It was also unnecessary to portray Mack as a recluse which makes the storyline even more unbelievable.
5. What happened to Alana? The author left her story unfinished.
6. What was this great thing Briana was supposed to accomplish in her life? This is another unfinished storyline.
2. My favorite part of the book was the relationship between Brianna and Alana before the secret.
3. The author fell short at the end of the book when Brianna continued to hide the truth. Brianna’s self-righteous attitude was ridiculous. The author missed a moment of growth for Brianna when she continued to conceal the truth and insisted on pointing out Alana’s shortcomings. Brianna said she would not lie about her pregnancy, but was quick to deceive Alana (deception by omission is a lie). Brianna also disregarded Alana’s feelings about changes with their friendship, this is a textbook example of how to lose a life long friendship.
3. Although this book was written to parallel the biblical story of David and Bathsheba, I was not convinced that king d.Avid had the heart of a servant like David from the Bible. I did not like d.Avid or Brianna individually or as a couple.
4. The author did not do a good job of helping me understand why Mack adopted Jonathan’s son Melvin. It was also unnecessary to portray Mack as a recluse which makes the storyline even more unbelievable.
5. What happened to Alana? The author left her story unfinished.
6. What was this great thing Briana was supposed to accomplish in her life? This is another unfinished storyline.
December 27, 2011
I cannot begin to tell you how much I looked forward to receiving this book, it was several months coming, but well worth the wait. This book is more than Christian Fiction, its lessons presented in a form you will truly enjoy; Vanessa Davis Griggs gives you a better understanding of biblical doctrine.
Vanessa Davis Griggs knows her Bible and is able to bring the modern day into well known biblical teachings, giving the verses more understanding for today’s values. She accomplishes this by addressing issues that many churches prefer to avoid. She is not only witty about addressing uncomfortable issues she is realistic.
Should you be wrestling with questions of faith, fidelity, forgiveness, and the sovereignty of God, this is a must read for you. This Author is gifted, and I'm very thankful she shares her talent through writing. This is a book that you will not only enjoy but one you will share.
Thanks Goodreads! This is a new author for me and an author I plan to follow.
February 2, 2012
Finally received it today! Thank you very much!
Just finished it...It's 4am. Wow, where to begin on this one! I had some instinctive dislikes about this book even until the end, BUT the more I think about it. It is written about as realistically as you could possibly do with an update of this story. Other than specifically saying for sure that he ordered the husband killed, the author followed the Biblical story line with an up to date theme as close as she could. Even to the older wiser counselors and the younger ones he ended up listening to.
I do feel like it gave the story away too soon and was a little too obvious for my taste, the play on all the names. I can understand why it was done that way, but I found it hard to take it serious at first because of that.
Having said all of that. I will say once you get past the "cheese" factor of the names. I loved how it shows that even today God's grace and forgiveness is still the same as it was in Bible times. Sin is sin and will be punished, but after true repentance, comes forgiveness and peace.
Just finished it...It's 4am. Wow, where to begin on this one! I had some instinctive dislikes about this book even until the end, BUT the more I think about it. It is written about as realistically as you could possibly do with an update of this story. Other than specifically saying for sure that he ordered the husband killed, the author followed the Biblical story line with an up to date theme as close as she could. Even to the older wiser counselors and the younger ones he ended up listening to.
I do feel like it gave the story away too soon and was a little too obvious for my taste, the play on all the names. I can understand why it was done that way, but I found it hard to take it serious at first because of that.
Having said all of that. I will say once you get past the "cheese" factor of the names. I loved how it shows that even today God's grace and forgiveness is still the same as it was in Bible times. Sin is sin and will be punished, but after true repentance, comes forgiveness and peace.
March 17, 2015
Unzell and Briana Waters were college sweethearts that later were happily married. During their college years, Unzell was a football star. With a NFL career ahead of him, he was destined for stardom. That was, until an unfortunate play that left Unzell unable to have football as his career. Determined to have a fresh start, Briana and Unzell decided to move to Georgia. While living in Atlanta, Unzell got a job working with gospel superstar King d.Avid. Unbeknownst to Unzell, Briana knew the artist from her childhood, and that it was not just an ordinary encounter...even though she was ten and he was twenty-five! Briana never forgot David R. Shepherd, and he didn't forget her either. While Unzell is travelling with King d.Avid's crew. Briana is home and starting to feel a little neglected, and that's when David steps in. An unforeseen tragedy happens and Briana has to make a decision that will affect the rest of her life. Will King d.Avid step in and take advantage of her while she is vulnerable, or will he just be a shoulder for her to lean on?
September 5, 2012
DEATILS VANESSA DAVIS-GRIGGS DID IT AGAIN. I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN, READ IT IN 2 DAYS. THIS IS DEFINITLY A PAGE TURNER. I ACTUALLY LEARNED A LOT ABOUT MIKVAH. SOMETHING I KNEW NOTHING ABOUT. I PERSONALLY CAN RELATE TO BRIANNA AND ALANAS FRIENDSHIP. THEIR INTERACTION WAS SO REAL TO ME, THE TWISTS OF THE STORYLINE IS WHAT KEPT ME EXCITED, THE PLOT SURELY DID THIKEN. I WOULD RECOMMEND REDEEMING WATERS TO ANY AND EVERYONE. IT IS A GREAT READ FOR CHRISTIAN BOOKCLUBS. KUDOS TO REDEEMING WATERS
MARIA MARSHALL-BEAN
AAMBC Reviews
MARIA MARSHALL-BEAN
AAMBC Reviews
February 9, 2017
Love this book....
February 2, 2015
I enjoyed reading the modern day version of King David and Bathsheeba. I also enjoyed learning about the Jewish cleansing ceremony. Some components of this book were really hard to understand or believe. For example, the brother's reluctance to share his adoption process with his family. The extremely quick marriage. Her friendship. Some of the characters and relationships could have been developed just a bit more. But overall this was a quick and pretty good weekend (or vacation) read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2016
This book took way too long to get to the actual meat of the story. I was well over half way through the book before it really became a good read. I barely made it through the first half. There wasn't much going on. The subject matter itself had me questioning how I felt about the decisions that were ultimately made by King d.Avid and Brianna as well. I'm not sure how things should have been handled...
April 21, 2012
Redeeming Waters, a story written of the account of King David in the bible, is full of drama and parallels the exact story of the bible. However, it is written in a way that would make the reader want to go back and read the story of David and Bathesheba. I have always been a fan of novels that retold stories of the bible in new and innovative ways. This is one of the best.
April 3, 2014
This a very power message focusing on the biblical story of Kind David & Bethsheba. I have to admit that I have not read this particular story in the bible, but now I can't to see what the book of Samuel has to say!
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because it started really slow, but I'm glad I stuck with it.
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because it started really slow, but I'm glad I stuck with it.
October 30, 2011
Redeeming Waters did not restrain conflict or limit subjects dealt with. Giggs cleverly paralleled Biblical King David with a modern Christian Musician. And yet, I found myself skimming on occasion. Not sure why.
July 4, 2012
Slow beginning almost did not finish and had to renew the book. I did not enjoy this book as much as I enjoyed Griggs other stories. There were no real surprises since it told the story of David closely.
November 30, 2014
Wonderful story.
couldn-t-get-through
March 6, 2013Probably is a good book, but I couldn't get into the writing style.
On to the next book.
On to the next book.
March 2, 2012
I thought this was a great modern-day take on the story of King David from the Bible. It shows that even when we make mistakes, our lives can be used for good by God.
September 11, 2016
Amazing Story!!
May 26, 2012
Loved it.. could not put it down..Read it in one day and I love the lord!
August 10, 2012
awesome Christian fiction novel; 21st century book based on King David and Bathsheba from the Bible. Griggs writes in a way that helps you think about your life while still giving you a good story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews