What do you think?
Rate this book
Jennifer Rushmore has overseen the restoration of Michael Johnson's ancestors’ doctor’s house long enough to work through their initial differences. They’ve begun applying the lessons of family and community learned from the past. Now the apothecary shop discloses a heart-breaking tale circa 1870 Georgia, shaking loose Jennifer’s own carefully suppressed past. She fears that when Michael sees beyond her façade, her tentative steps toward trust and love may disintegrate into rubble. On her journey to forgiveness, Jennifer draws on her new faith and friendships, even as the mysterious accidents clouding her first preservation job escalate into imminent danger.
216 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2020
3 people are currently reading
217 people want to read
About the author
Denise Weimer
38 books402 followersDenise Weimer writes historical and contemporary romance from her home in North Georgia and also serves as a freelance editor and the Acquisitions & Editorial Liaison for Wild Heart Books. A mother of two daughters, she always pauses for coffee, chocolate, and old houses.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
August 1, 2016
Widow by Denise Weimer is the second book in the Restoration series but can be read as a stand-alone as any information needed from the first novel is incorporated into the second one. It is both a contemporary and a historical Christian novel. Much of the action is present day but some is mid nineteenth century.
Widow is an amazing read. The detail about garments and furnishings is comprehensive and a delight for the reader. Denise Weimer has clearly researched thoroughly.
It was an absolute pleasure to catch up with all the characters from book one, including Yoda the kitten. As Denise Weimer writes with care about even the smallest kitten, the reader is reminded that God cares about every detail of our lives. Nothing is too big or too small for Him.
God is central to the novel. There are well established Christians and there are new Christians in the story. Denise Weimer demonstrates how we need to support each other and build each other up in our faith. God is a powerful God and when we let Him into our lives we should hand control over to Him. "When you committed your life to Him, you agreed to let Him be the pilot." As Christians we need to be in tune with God and listen for His guiding. "The power of God was showing up there, not in loud and forceful demonstrations, but in a quiet soul searching manner." The voice of God is sometimes just a whisper.
God is always with us. The novel shows that there is more to life than what we can see. "Dark times can leave dark shadows." Life is a spiritual battle and "When God's at work and God stuff starts to happen, there's always opposition." We need to arm ourselves with God's word and with prayer.
Within the novel characters place much emphasis on the power of prayer. Characters pray in the bad times, in the good times, and for help and guidance. This reminds the reader that we should pray at all times and we should expect answers to prayer.
Life is not always nice or fair. Within Widow there are tough themes of domestic and child abuse. Denise Weimer sensitively presents both areas. Domestic abuse can trap a wife "No one knew I had been plunged into the depths of a slavery no less binding, but far subtler than hers (a Negro servant)." Domestic abuse is not new. It has been around for centuries. There is also the topic of rape, racial prejudice and illegitimate children. Again, these are sensitively covered.
Linked in to these dark themes is the theme of forgiveness. Forgiveness is powerful. Forgiveness is freeing for the victim. It is acknowledging that the perpetrator has no power over you. On our own, we may be unable to forgive, but calling out to God means He will stand alongside you and give you the strength to forgive.
God is a God of restoration. He will restore the years that the locusts have eaten. As Jennifer restores the properties within the novel, so God is restoring lives. The buildings to be restored can be seen as a motif for broken lives. "It isn't about buildings. It's about relationships." With love and care and attention both buildings and people can be restored to their former glory.
There are some wonderful characters within Widow. They are fully rounded and realistically drawn. The reader can empathise with both their fears and their dreams. I found myself getting quite excited at some of Jennifer's restoration projects. Her enthusiasm was contagious. I loved the relationship between Jennifer and twelve year old Montana - they encouraged each other and built each other up, showing that friendship can surpass age boundaries.
I have absolutely adored the first two books in the Restoration trilogy and am eagerly awaiting the third book. Denise Weimer is a superb author who certainly knows how to draw her reader into her novels.
Give yourself a treat and buy both White and Widow today.
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
Widow is an amazing read. The detail about garments and furnishings is comprehensive and a delight for the reader. Denise Weimer has clearly researched thoroughly.
It was an absolute pleasure to catch up with all the characters from book one, including Yoda the kitten. As Denise Weimer writes with care about even the smallest kitten, the reader is reminded that God cares about every detail of our lives. Nothing is too big or too small for Him.
God is central to the novel. There are well established Christians and there are new Christians in the story. Denise Weimer demonstrates how we need to support each other and build each other up in our faith. God is a powerful God and when we let Him into our lives we should hand control over to Him. "When you committed your life to Him, you agreed to let Him be the pilot." As Christians we need to be in tune with God and listen for His guiding. "The power of God was showing up there, not in loud and forceful demonstrations, but in a quiet soul searching manner." The voice of God is sometimes just a whisper.
God is always with us. The novel shows that there is more to life than what we can see. "Dark times can leave dark shadows." Life is a spiritual battle and "When God's at work and God stuff starts to happen, there's always opposition." We need to arm ourselves with God's word and with prayer.
Within the novel characters place much emphasis on the power of prayer. Characters pray in the bad times, in the good times, and for help and guidance. This reminds the reader that we should pray at all times and we should expect answers to prayer.
Life is not always nice or fair. Within Widow there are tough themes of domestic and child abuse. Denise Weimer sensitively presents both areas. Domestic abuse can trap a wife "No one knew I had been plunged into the depths of a slavery no less binding, but far subtler than hers (a Negro servant)." Domestic abuse is not new. It has been around for centuries. There is also the topic of rape, racial prejudice and illegitimate children. Again, these are sensitively covered.
Linked in to these dark themes is the theme of forgiveness. Forgiveness is powerful. Forgiveness is freeing for the victim. It is acknowledging that the perpetrator has no power over you. On our own, we may be unable to forgive, but calling out to God means He will stand alongside you and give you the strength to forgive.
God is a God of restoration. He will restore the years that the locusts have eaten. As Jennifer restores the properties within the novel, so God is restoring lives. The buildings to be restored can be seen as a motif for broken lives. "It isn't about buildings. It's about relationships." With love and care and attention both buildings and people can be restored to their former glory.
There are some wonderful characters within Widow. They are fully rounded and realistically drawn. The reader can empathise with both their fears and their dreams. I found myself getting quite excited at some of Jennifer's restoration projects. Her enthusiasm was contagious. I loved the relationship between Jennifer and twelve year old Montana - they encouraged each other and built each other up, showing that friendship can surpass age boundaries.
I have absolutely adored the first two books in the Restoration trilogy and am eagerly awaiting the third book. Denise Weimer is a superb author who certainly knows how to draw her reader into her novels.
Give yourself a treat and buy both White and Widow today.
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
September 11, 2016
After having trouble with allergies in my eyes this year I was able to finally finish this book
This is another great read by Denise Weimer who has the knack if blending past with present as she brings her characters to life.
This wonderful novel talks about forgiveness which was what our Pastor Goia preached on for the last month.
You totally need to forgive others before you can move on and have peace in your own life.
I am living example for I still have not forgiven my father before he passed away.
Jennifer os a courageous woman yet she is afraid to love and to put herself out there or just to be around pp in general. Fortunately she has a wonderful group of friends out there who are willing to give her a nudge in the right direction. Jennifer begins to heal through the wonderful love of friends and most of a loving God.
Charlotte has been dealt a rough blow through her husband Stuart. Even though ppl have tried to warn her she is heard Headed like me and wouldn't listen. Because she wouldn't listen she learned things about her husband the hard way!! Somehow, through all of these things, she has learned to forgive those who have hurt her including any family members.
A favorite verse of mine is I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.
Power of forgiveness is an awesome thing. For without it, we can never truly heal!
Michael is still struggling with this but together I believe that he and Jennifer will ha together.
Who knows maybe something special will happen between them. Only in God's timing will they know.
I loved this book! I can't wait until the 3rd book!! Thanks for another wonderful book Denise Weimer! ! Sorry I took so long to read this book! I rely enjoyed it!
This is another great read by Denise Weimer who has the knack if blending past with present as she brings her characters to life.
This wonderful novel talks about forgiveness which was what our Pastor Goia preached on for the last month.
You totally need to forgive others before you can move on and have peace in your own life.
I am living example for I still have not forgiven my father before he passed away.
Jennifer os a courageous woman yet she is afraid to love and to put herself out there or just to be around pp in general. Fortunately she has a wonderful group of friends out there who are willing to give her a nudge in the right direction. Jennifer begins to heal through the wonderful love of friends and most of a loving God.
Charlotte has been dealt a rough blow through her husband Stuart. Even though ppl have tried to warn her she is heard Headed like me and wouldn't listen. Because she wouldn't listen she learned things about her husband the hard way!! Somehow, through all of these things, she has learned to forgive those who have hurt her including any family members.
A favorite verse of mine is I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.
Power of forgiveness is an awesome thing. For without it, we can never truly heal!
Michael is still struggling with this but together I believe that he and Jennifer will ha together.
Who knows maybe something special will happen between them. Only in God's timing will they know.
I loved this book! I can't wait until the 3rd book!! Thanks for another wonderful book Denise Weimer! ! Sorry I took so long to read this book! I rely enjoyed it!
August 22, 2016
Widow #2 The Restoration Trilogy***** by Denise Weimer
Widow is the second book in the Restoration Trilogy, but can be read as a stand-alone book. The story spans two eras: 1857, Oglethorpe County, Georgia and present day. It is interesting that many of the characters of the past parallel present day characters' in their life experiences, heartaches, struggles, joys and faith. There are events that occur in both eras that are not something I like to read about but the author has sensitively dealt with these events—I appreciate that not much detail is given about them but it is clear what those event(s) are.
I enjoyed the descriptions of the restoration process and the lifestyle of the past era. I would like to see the mural of the Dunham Plantation in the parlor that Stella painted, it sounds beautiful. One of the characters from the past era felt she was a widow even though her abusive husband was very much alive due to the events in their lives together—I could see why she felt that way.
Jennifer Rushmore’s ideas for the small community where she is restoring the house and apothecary shop of Michael Johnson’s ancestors excites most of the community. Michael and Jennifer often didn't agree on things but learned to overcome their differences and work together on the restoration. Little by little the suppressed past Jennifer has long hidden from others—and herself—is triggered, bringing fresh pain and heartache. I love the Bible verse Stella shares with Jennifer, “He will give us beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness” (Isaiah 61:3 KJV) and reminds her that as a Christian she is “no broken piece of pottery”. Michael has his own heartaches and griefs from his past which he is struggling with as well. His past griefs certainly impacted his life in every way. Will he open his heart to God and finally forgive and let the past go?
I enjoyed the friendship between Jennifer and a 12 year old girl, Montana and how they interact. The armadillo infestation was fun to watch as Michael, Jennifer and the others tried to prevent further damage to the yard and gardens and their ultimate solution. Then there is the mysterious accidents and danger that occur on the restoration site which brings anxiety, uncertainties and possible danger.
We see the characters applying the lessons learned from the past regarding many areas in their own lives: overcoming heartbreak, importance of friendships, how forgiveness frees the one doing the forgiving, love, faith and God's unfailing love and grace.
~ I received a PDF copy of this book from the author, (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~
Widow is the second book in the Restoration Trilogy, but can be read as a stand-alone book. The story spans two eras: 1857, Oglethorpe County, Georgia and present day. It is interesting that many of the characters of the past parallel present day characters' in their life experiences, heartaches, struggles, joys and faith. There are events that occur in both eras that are not something I like to read about but the author has sensitively dealt with these events—I appreciate that not much detail is given about them but it is clear what those event(s) are.
I enjoyed the descriptions of the restoration process and the lifestyle of the past era. I would like to see the mural of the Dunham Plantation in the parlor that Stella painted, it sounds beautiful. One of the characters from the past era felt she was a widow even though her abusive husband was very much alive due to the events in their lives together—I could see why she felt that way.
Jennifer Rushmore’s ideas for the small community where she is restoring the house and apothecary shop of Michael Johnson’s ancestors excites most of the community. Michael and Jennifer often didn't agree on things but learned to overcome their differences and work together on the restoration. Little by little the suppressed past Jennifer has long hidden from others—and herself—is triggered, bringing fresh pain and heartache. I love the Bible verse Stella shares with Jennifer, “He will give us beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness” (Isaiah 61:3 KJV) and reminds her that as a Christian she is “no broken piece of pottery”. Michael has his own heartaches and griefs from his past which he is struggling with as well. His past griefs certainly impacted his life in every way. Will he open his heart to God and finally forgive and let the past go?
I enjoyed the friendship between Jennifer and a 12 year old girl, Montana and how they interact. The armadillo infestation was fun to watch as Michael, Jennifer and the others tried to prevent further damage to the yard and gardens and their ultimate solution. Then there is the mysterious accidents and danger that occur on the restoration site which brings anxiety, uncertainties and possible danger.
We see the characters applying the lessons learned from the past regarding many areas in their own lives: overcoming heartbreak, importance of friendships, how forgiveness frees the one doing the forgiving, love, faith and God's unfailing love and grace.
~ I received a PDF copy of this book from the author, (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~
June 15, 2017
The historical restoration & furnishing of the buildings, along with the spiritual restoration process, has been delightful to follow! This author has done such a great job, making me feel like I’m in the middle of the restoration, understanding the whys and the process. Another interesting part of this book is how this author weaves the letters & diaries found during the work, with the present day, and how both the ancestors in the past and in the present go through a spiritual restoration. Again, the history tidbits are fascinating! And then there are the timeless topics of personal insecurity, perceived reality, abuse survival, emotional grooming for the purpose of control & manipulation, broken people, trust, and forgiveness. Which brings me to one of my favorite quotes: “Forgiveness is meant to free us, not the offender… forgiveness is not excusing the wrong. It’s choosing to give the wrong into God’s hands.” Another interesting quote that made me stop & think about: “births & deaths were times the veil between the worlds was thinnest.” I could quote so many lines from this wonderful, well-written book! I won this series of books, and personally wanted to give my own honest review of it. Intriguing, Insightful, Captivating Restoration!!!
October 2, 2016
Widow is the second book in the Restoration Trilogy by Denise Weimer. I found it just as enjoyable as the first. All the same characters return with Jennifer Rushmore continuing to restore the home and property of Michael Johnson.
In this book Jennifer and Michael learn more about each other. Each of them also learns that restoration can apply to more than just houses and buildings. Restoration can also help them heal wounds of the past.
Going even deeper into the past, we learn more about Michael's Dunham ancestors and the secrets they kept.
If you enjoyed the first book in the series, White you will definitely enjoy this one as well.
In this book Jennifer and Michael learn more about each other. Each of them also learns that restoration can apply to more than just houses and buildings. Restoration can also help them heal wounds of the past.
Going even deeper into the past, we learn more about Michael's Dunham ancestors and the secrets they kept.
If you enjoyed the first book in the series, White you will definitely enjoy this one as well.
March 18, 2017
This is the second book in the Restoration Trilogy and I loved it as much as the first. I enjoy the chapters of the past and how they tie in to the restoration Jennifer is doing for Michael and James. There is two restorations going on....the buildings and the characters, whom have suffered hurts that can only be healed by Christ's redemption. I love the way Denise weaves this story. Her eye for detail and her historical research are very well done. A great read.
I won this copy and was blessed. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I won this copy and was blessed. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
October 1, 2018
Past and present merge...
Anyone that knows me will tell you right off that I LOVE history, even those dry and boring dates in dusty old books. They'd also probably warn you that I get a little bit too enthusiastic about my volunteer work in my local museum. Those two things are what first drew to me to Denise Weimer's latest series called The Restoration Trilogy. Well, more like got me hooked before I even read the first one. And believe me, when I did read them I enjoyed Widow just as much as I did the first book.
Ever since I read White I've been just itching to find out what happens next, and to find out who or what is causing Jennifer’s mysterious accidents. As the layers of Jennifer’s past are peeled away and the hurts are revealed readers travel with her on her journey to come to terms with it and to find peace through forgiveness. Both Jennifer and Michael's ancestor Charlotte must battle through very painful circumstances to forgiveness and a brighter future.
I loved learning about Georgia history, historical architecture, all of the fascinating references to historical herbs and medicines, and especially the way Denise Weimer so quickly re-immersed me into the Jennifer’s world. Widow is by no means a dry book filled with nothing but historical details, it is a rich and lovely story. A story that I truly enjoyed from page one to the very last. The only problem? I have to wait impatiently for the final book in the series. Very, VERY impatiently wait...
(I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Anyone that knows me will tell you right off that I LOVE history, even those dry and boring dates in dusty old books. They'd also probably warn you that I get a little bit too enthusiastic about my volunteer work in my local museum. Those two things are what first drew to me to Denise Weimer's latest series called The Restoration Trilogy. Well, more like got me hooked before I even read the first one. And believe me, when I did read them I enjoyed Widow just as much as I did the first book.
Ever since I read White I've been just itching to find out what happens next, and to find out who or what is causing Jennifer’s mysterious accidents. As the layers of Jennifer’s past are peeled away and the hurts are revealed readers travel with her on her journey to come to terms with it and to find peace through forgiveness. Both Jennifer and Michael's ancestor Charlotte must battle through very painful circumstances to forgiveness and a brighter future.
I loved learning about Georgia history, historical architecture, all of the fascinating references to historical herbs and medicines, and especially the way Denise Weimer so quickly re-immersed me into the Jennifer’s world. Widow is by no means a dry book filled with nothing but historical details, it is a rich and lovely story. A story that I truly enjoyed from page one to the very last. The only problem? I have to wait impatiently for the final book in the series. Very, VERY impatiently wait...
(I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)
January 18, 2018
I really enjoyed this book as much as the first one on the trilogy. It is a fast read with great characters. I like books that have different time periods, and this one goes back to civil war Georgia. To me it too wrapped up in Christian dogma, but Jennifer learns much from it.
I will have to say that the author needs to find better editors for her stories. There are a lot of errors. Still I can’t wait to start the next one.
I will have to say that the author needs to find better editors for her stories. There are a lot of errors. Still I can’t wait to start the next one.
February 8, 2018
This second novel in the Restoration Trilogy was a quick and entertaining read. I enjoyed spending time in this sleepy Georgia town with the cast of characters from the first book. I found it to be as interesting as the original work. The gradual unfolding of secrets from the last is intriguing. I look forward to the conclusion of the restoration projects-both architectural and personal. I recommend it.
April 11, 2019
Well-researched and well-written. Thank you, Denise Weimer, for this delightful book.
July 1, 2016
My endorsement:
Denise Weimer has written a beautiful novel with rich characters that come alive. She brings to life a story that has a lovely blend of both historic and present events that tie it all together. Friendship, faith, and mystery entangle readers in this fantastic book. Readers are not going to want to miss this next novel in the Restoration Trilogy!
An ARC was provided by the author via the publisher.
Denise Weimer has written a beautiful novel with rich characters that come alive. She brings to life a story that has a lovely blend of both historic and present events that tie it all together. Friendship, faith, and mystery entangle readers in this fantastic book. Readers are not going to want to miss this next novel in the Restoration Trilogy!
An ARC was provided by the author via the publisher.
June 25, 2016
WIDOW is a firmly-packed, beautifully descriptive tale that flows through a century in the most addictive way, especially for the renovating romantic hooked on supernatural mystery.
November 23, 2016
Widow explores the universal subjects of abuse and forgiveness. Weimar is a new very enjoyable author for me. I look forward to reading the first in the trilogy.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews