num_pages: 146
description: Virginia has endured much heartache in her life. Orphaned at 16 and widowed at 23, she longs to escape poverty, start a new life, and find true love.  When she corresponds with mercantile owner, Jake, she feels drawn to him. But Jake only wants a marriage of convenience and a helper in his store.  Believing she will come to accept a loveless marriage, Virginia travels to California. But her dreams of a peaceful life soon fade. Nothing will melt Jake's cold heart, and when Virginia finds herself falling in love with Jake, she realizes she must leave California, and all that she's ever wanted, behind.
title: The Widowed Bride