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STRONGHOLDS - Vanessa Davis Griggs Kensington Dafina/Inspirational May 2008 |
SYNOPSIS: The second book in Griggs' Blessed Trinity Trilogy combines the appeal of JanKaron and Terry McMillan in a powerful story of a congregation looking towardheaven while dealing with life right here on earth.
INSPIRATIONAL FICTION |4+| Tricia-Ann Blades
REVIEW: Vanessa Davis Griggs continues to produce spirit filled, motivational and encouraging words of love, peace and of guidance, showing the reader the power of God’s words as she weaves the sequel to Blessed Trinity. Continuing the story of Pastor George Landris, Ms. Griggs has woven a powerful tale of addictive behaviors and the impact that these can have on life if not broken by the power of God and His word. By the end of the novel, the reader through the experience of each character, knows how to deal with any type of stronghold or addictive behavior that can present itself in one’s life.
Pastor George Landris continues to grow in character as he speaks the word of God boldly. He must take the advice delivered from the pulpit and apply it to his life in order to ensure that he does not become involved in any addictive behaviors he cautions his congregation against. This support comes from none other than his wife, who while she continues to uplift his right hand, is able to caution him as Jethro cautioned Moses. Their relationship continues to bud; soon to produce a beautiful rose.
Each character in STRONGHOLDS has a different story and it is through each character that Mrs. Griggs effectively shows the reader the various strongholds that a person can experience. No stone is left unturned in this quest to show the reader how to overcome each stronghold. The writer shows through Xavier that work, even though good, can become so addictive it can destroy that which you value most; Fatima must learn to resist as well as turn away from that which she desires, Desiree develops self control and a radical change of lifestyle as she allows the unconditional love of God to flow through her towards her husband Edwin who in turns realizes the power of God to break the tie that binds him. It is through each character and the excellent expository writing of the author that this story evolves.
The author not only shows success but in comparison, she has allowed the reader to see that unless you are open to believing your stronghold is destructive to you as an individual, you will not be delivered. This was forcibly brought to the fore in the characterization of Arletha. Arletha is a woman bound in religious tradition. Her dogma has lead her to believing that it is only the traditionalist would see the face of God. As a result she shuts off everything that is not steeped in tradition and deems it of the devil. Even though this stronghold can be broken, she has no desire to.
Vanessa Davis Griggs has not disappointed. She has produced an excellently written, powerful manual in the pages of Strongholds. She has not deviated from her style of given you the word of God in its solid form and allowing the Holy Spirit to impart on the hearts of the reader-“God Can”.
reviewer@romanceincolor.com | 8th June 2008