Over the Waters

by Deborah Raney

All Valerie Austin has ever wanted is to be married and have a dozen children. At age 30, she finally falls in love, only to be left--practically at the altar--by her groom-to-be. Dejected, Valerie decides to go on a short-term mission trip to a Haitian orphanage. In Haiti, she meets another American, Max Jordan, a 47-year-old doctor with a tragic past. As Valerie falls in love with the Haitian people--and especially the children in the orphanage--she keeps running into Max. They develop a warm friendship, which ultimately turns romantic. But Valerie feels more and more called to remain in Haiti while Max plans to return to the States...but what is God's plan for them?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Romance, Contemporary, Christian, Inspirational, Audiobook

336 pages, Paperback

First published September 27, 2005

About the author

DEBORAH RANEY's first novel, A Vow to Cherish, inspired the World Wide Pictures film of the same title and launched Deb’s writing career. Twenty-five years, forty-plus books, and numerous awards later, she's still creating stories that touch hearts and lives. Her novels have won RWA's RITA Award, the ACFW Carol Award, the National Readers Choice Award, and the HOLT Medallion. She is also a three-time Christy Award finalist. Deb is a recent Missouri transplant, having moved with her husband, Ken Raney, from their native Kansas to be closer to kids and grandkids. They love road trips, Friday garage sale dates, and breakfast on the screened porch overlooking their wooded backyard. Visit Deb on the Web at www.deborahraney.com.

Reviews

[Robin Hatcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. I feel like I've been on a mission trip to Haiti, and the growth in the characters was sweet and believable.

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Contemporary Christian fiction with a light touch of romance. Valerie Austin has been dumped by her fiance just before the wedding. What was supposed to be her honeymoon trip instead becomes a mission trip to Haiti to help out at an orphanage for two weeks. Max Jordan, aka Dr. Botox, is a high class plastic surgeon specializing in treating wealthy women to keep them young looking. When Max' son dies serving as a medical missionary in Haiti, he decides the only way to get over his embittered feelings regarding Joshua's death is to check out the orphanage where he was serving.

This book was filled with wonderful characters: the Haitian orphans, Pastor Phil and Madame Phil (Betty Greene), and Marie Duval and Samantha. The plight of the many Haitian orphans from both HIV and natural disasters caught at my heart strings. Max-a-million as he was known in Chicago for his overwhelming wealth had focused on all the wrong things in life costing him his marriage and his son. Valerie had focused on her uncontrollable desire for a marriage with a large number of children. I loved how God put all these people together to help one another and to find their true purpose in life.

I don't think this book has a sequel but sure would love to see what happens next in Vanessa and Max' lives as they follow their God-driven plans.

[Cary · Rating 2 out of 5]

For a Christy Romance award winner there was not romance in this book but if you want to read a lot about Haitian orphanages and how Christian missionaries help in them, then this is the book for you! On the other hand since there was hardly any romance there was also no sex gratuitous or otherwise!

[Norma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful

Over the Waters tells a story of how God places His call on the life of those who trust Him. Believable characters, Haitian orphan homes, and deep spiritual insights are woven together to capture the heart and imagination of the reader. A powerful reminder that God has a plan.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Deborah Raney! I do not remember reading this book at all. I really enjoyed the missionary story in this book. Thanks for a great read!

[Sandra Barker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Christian novel - which was a plus for me right away. Then, the story and the characters drew me in and I greatly enjoyed following along and watching the main characters of Valerie and Max as they went through "stuff" and grew from their experiences. I don't like to give too much away, but "seeing" Haiti through the eyes of newcomers Valerie and Max was a real adventure. I didn't realize how very, very improverished it is and how primitive are the living conditions for missionaries. Even so, these Christian workers loved working in the orphanages with the Haitians, finding great joy in helping them and enjoying their friendships. The story has sadness, laughter, romance, and learning about the Haitian culture. I liked not only the story, but the inspiration I received from the lives of the characters. The author did a lovely job capturing the way God works in lives of people.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Synopsis

In her most transcendent novel to date, RITA Award-winning author Deborah Raney depicts a driven, ambitious man shaken into a journey of self-discovery by the death of his son.

As "Dr. Botox" to the bored, rich women of Chicago, plastic surgeon Max Jordan was shocked by the decision of his son, Joshua, to focus his medical talent on Haitian orphans. Embittered by Joshua's death, Max searched for resolution in the very place his son called home. The selfless labor of Joshua's co-workers stunned Max, and he was particularly taken by American volunteer Valerie Austin, whose view of his son's sacrifice, and her own, challenged Max's values and assumptions. Transformed by his visit to Haiti, and especially by his encounters with Valerie, Max wondered if he could ever return to his "Max-a-Million" lifestyle, or if the doors to his gilded cage had finally opened.

My review:

Over the Waters is one of those rare books that is good enough to read twice. The emotion is deep,the romance is beatiful, and the selfless love of the characters is admirable. Neither main character started out giving of themselves with full abandon to God and His service, but as they grow in Him and listen to His voice they are pulled by His love in that direction. I adore love stories written by Deb Raney and this is no exception. In fact, it's one of my favorites. What thrills me most, however, about the re-release of this book, is that the epilogue includes some yummy kisses. Yahoo! What a fabulous way to end a beautiful romance story. If you haven't experienced the emotional and spiritual rush from reading the first release of Over the Waters, then you MUST check out this version (the mass market paperback) with the brand new epilogue!

Over the Waters was published by Steeple Hill and released in Oct. 2005, then re-released in 2008.

[Stella Potts · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Wonderful Romance And A Look At Hiw God Changes Lives

Max and Valerie meet in the most unusual circumstances both visiting orphanages in Haiti for very different reasons. It was awesome to see how God changed their hearts and their lives and gave them a desire to serve him. I loved all the characters in this book but I especially loved the two main characters. I recommend this book and I think it will change you for the good.

[Robert Ruesch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, as usual, Deborah Raney tells a wonderful, meaningful story, that is completely believable.
This author has a God gifted talent. None of the books I have read from her disappoint, but rather inspire and allow the reader to think, reflect and perhaps respond with their life commitment.
Thank you, Deborah, for a great read.

[Deeann Barteau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over ThE Waters

I Did not want this story to
end.what a beautiful story. Is there a sequel? So many questions to be answered.

[Kathy Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story

I couldn't put this book down. It had me at chapter 1. I love the way the story unfolds about God's provision over us. How author used Samantha and Valarie's testimony of peace and depending on God to draw Dr Max to Jesus. They testified with their lives. He wanted what they had. I loved the messages Jesus gave Valarie and Max with the outfits Valarie made for her babies and they wind up on the babies at her orphanige. And Max reading scripture when he's about to crash about God watching over him in the sky and the sea. Good read for our book club.

[Karen Mcnicol · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down, I pretty much read it in one sitting. I love Deborah Raney, she can paint a picture with her words so well that I felt I was in Haiti with these people. I wish I could be a selfless as these people were (and how people really are) to give up a life that could be so easy compared to the days that they are living in a Country that has nothing but what they give it. I really can't put into words how this book made me feel. I just love Deborah Raney's writing and I have loved everything that I have read of hers so much, they just make me feel.

[Nancy Pretty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love in Haiti

Lovely book. Nice message about God putting people where they need to be to do the His work. Good, strong, faithful, yet flawed characters. Puts things in a nice perspective.

[Veronica · Rating 1 out of 5]

Good until 250 pages in. Should have seen the cliche coming. Well, I guess I did but hoped I was wrong.

[Deb Brammer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Max, a rich and famous plastic surgeon, travels to Haiti to make sense of what his son had lived and died for. Valerie, still smarting from an engagement gone wrong, travels there to help at an orphanage for a few weeks. The startling contrast between their normal life and the life in Haiti sheds new light on needs beyond their comfort zone and challenges them to reconsider their purpose in life.

I give Deb Raney five stars for subject matter. Meaningful Christian fiction dealing with characters in Christian ministry is far too scarce. She does a great job of balancing the crushing need of orphans in Haiti with the joy and hope they can receive from Christ and people who care. Contrary to so much of Christian fiction, Raney emphasizes positive values and compassion over hormones and physical attraction in the romance. She shows the joy and satisfaction in ministry and serving others. I love all that. However, I am disappointed with any Christian romance in which mature Christian believers fall in love with someone before they come to faith in Christ. That is a flaw here. This is also an American book written for American believers so it emphasizes the part Americans play in providing for the needs of Haitians. While I understand that, perhaps more could have been done to highlight the part Haitians played in this ministry.

Overall, this is an interesting read with characters who make you care about them.

[Jennifer Lara · Rating 2 out of 5]

Over the Waters by Deborah Raney is the story of discovering there’s more to life than money. Dr. Max Jordan, aka “Dr Botox,” is a successful plastic surgeon in Chicago. Every decision he has made has focused on his career and his monetary success. He is shocked and angered that his only child, Joshua, after becoming a doctor, has decided to treat Haitian orphans. After Joshua’s death, a very bitter Max searches for answers in the orphanage that his son called home. Valerie Austin escapes to Haiti after the bitter break up of her engagement, seeks to find new meaning in her life. Will Max find his eyes opened to the truth in his son’s sacrifice and the sacrifice of those who work tirelessly for the orphans? Will he be able to find a freedom that he never knew he needed?
Over the Waters is a touching story of the conditions in Haiti, the people who live there and the humanitarian workers and missionaries who work to help those in need. The overall story of Max and Valerie left much to be desired. The book is billed as a romance and there was very little romance. Max was a hard character to like even when he softened a bit about his son’s choice. I had a bit more sympathy for Valerie. Overall, it was enjoyable but not memorable. If you are a fan of Ms Raney, you may enjoy Over the Waters.

Over the Waters
is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook

[Lauren Dunn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved meeting Deborah at a recent conference and couldn't wait to dive into one of her (thirty-five!) books. Over the Waters was an engaging read, and I loved seeing both main characters' internal journeys throughout the story, especially as I saw parallels to my own life in one of the characters.

My only disappointment (if you can call it that) was that I wanted to know more about Samantha Courtney's character arc. Deborah created a very relatable and moving character in Samantha and I was sad to see her move to the backdrop of the story. Maybe we'll see her again in another book :-)

Over the Waters is a story that invites us to look at our own hearts, and we will grow along with Deborah's characters as we do.

[Joan Bagley]

Valerie went on a two week mission to Haiti after her engagement was called off by her fiance. She meets Max, who is cynical about his son's choice to serve there when Max had paid for an extended medical education that could have been financially rewarding. With news of his son's death from overwork and exposure to an epidemic, Max visits Haiti to see his son's end-of-life circumstances. His attitude changed from contempt to acceptance,, and eventually to a love for the impoverished people. Valerie, who chose to stay in Haiti because her life had suddenly had meaning. Their fifteen hear age difference soon lost its significance. Anyone could learn and benefit from this Crihstian fiction.

[Anne Rightler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the Waters, by Deborah Raney, is a compelling story. The characters are realistic and relatable (ok, perhaps, not Dr. Botox! but he is realistic!) I liked the faith and spiritual growth portrayed by the characters, it is inspirational. Coming from a Christian, solid mission-oriented background and having been on several mission trips, it was easy to connect with the characters and the story. Some of the story was a bit predictable but I thoroughly enjoyed Valerie's story. I listened to a library copy of the audiobook. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own. Julie Lancelot did a great job narrating the book which made for an enjoyable listening experience. Readers who enjoy contemporary Christian romance will not want to miss Over the Waters.

[Linda Klager · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haiti adventure

A father was not able to move on when he heard of his son's untimely death. He flew to Haiti to get closure. This father did not understand that his son loved the Lord Jesus Christ. He thought his son would follow in his father's footsteps.

While in Haiti, the father discovered many true believers of Jesus. One in particular was a much younger than he woman. He desired a relationship with this woman but worried about their age differences.

Then, on a return trip to America, this man realized he needed the Lord Jesus in his life.

I loved this story. There was much to be thankful about when reading the interaction between characters.

[Jean Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow-this story drew me in and kept me interested throughout. Plastic Surgeon Max Jordan, who is known as "Dr. Botox" to the wealthy women who are his patients. He is decidedly not happy when his son Joshua decided to use his medical degree and talents to help Haitian orphans. Max becomes bitter after Joshua dies suddenly in Haiti. He searches for resolution by traveling to the orphanage Joshua had worked at. It was inspiring how many people helped change Max's thinking and lead him to surrender to the power of God, and help him see that there is joy in helping others. The characters were inspiring, sweet and believable.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

E-Reader. Fiction book

Dr. Max Jordan (Dr. Botox) is upset that lost only son.  In Hope House Orphanage, outside of Port au Prince.

He flew from Chicago to see where son died.  Right does not believe in God, because he is so upset that he lost  his only son.

When Max went visit the Hope House, he met young woman, Valerie Austin.  Who is a volunteer sent by her church.  

The question is will Max believe in God?

There are too many characters to list in this book.

I hope you will read this book to end.

I hope you will enjoy this book as as I did!

[Lois Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the Waters

What a refreshing story. Two people Max with a goal to figure things out about his son's life choice and Valerie a young woman dealing with a broken heart find answers for their lives by a visit to an orphanage in HaIti. Observing lives so opposite of theirs and finally understanding why God led them to this place. God speaking into their lives in such a way that each one finds the reason God led them to this place.
Nothing is beyond God's way of opening doors to Himself and giving people a reason to live the life He desires for them.

[Ken Vance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very engaging book

I really enjoyed the book. I’ve read several of Deborah Raney’s books. The story has several twists that keep you guessing what is going to happen. I gave it four stars because I was disappointed that there was not closure for one of the main characters. Samantha started out as a major character, then moved to the background as other characters came to the forefront. I love that there are discussion questions at the back of the book. This would be an inviting and interesting book study for a ladies’ group. I would highly recommend it.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wonderful author!

I have only read a few of her books so far, but how refreshing they have been. I appreciate the Christian characters and godly message she portrays. This story was captivating for me right from the beginning, so much so that I found it difficult to put down, even though there were so many "other" things I "should be" doing...I tried to justify reading all day by reminding myself that I "am" retired! Your story was a delight, Deborah Raney. I will look forward to more!

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deborah wrote another excellent story. This one was a bit more "normal" in that it didn't deal with such difficult/taboo issues as some of her other stories, yet she once again dealt with a difficult issue--losing a child--in an interesting, gentle, and realistic way. I liked the way she brought in other issues, as well. Her books have never disappointed, and I will continue to read all of them that I can get my hands on.

[Anne-Marie Webster · Rating 4 out of 5]

What truly brings us joy?

This author is always willing to tackle those subjects that challenge our concept of who we really are and what makes our lives purposeful. Both Valerie and Max have set life goals for themselves, but both have not had them realized. How much weight does luck vs divine providence play in discovering meaning and joy in our existence? Journey through this story and ponder upon your own concepts of success and fullness.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wonderful story and so meaningful. I loved all the characters and I will especially regret not being able to follow Valerie and Max. The story centers on Haiti and 2 orphanages there, and the people who feel called to be there. Faith in God is shared openly and with compassion in words and actions. But ultimately, each person is trying to find out their life purpose and who they really are--or want to belong to. I couldn't put it down.

[Ann Leatherman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book

Another excellent book by Deborah Raney. I couldn’t put it down, but that is normal for me when reading her books. The descriptions of life in Hati matched what I have read about the country and life there. The changes in the lives of Valerie and Max are amazing, but not unusual when a person allows God to work in their life. I would recommend this book to anyone.

[Stephanie Rubio · Rating 5 out of 5]

When One Door Closes…

This is such a moving story that parallels many of our lives. Valerie Austin sees doors closing in her life, but others begin to open for her in Haiti of all places. Meanwhile, Max Jordan thinks life is all about possession and success, until his soul is rocked to his core, this brings him to the other side of the world…with open doors, if he’s willing to walk through them. This story meets you where you currently are in your life. It truly blessed me…❤️