Widow's Walk
In Jane Willan’s novel Widow’s Walk, a top Boston chef turned Episcopal priest questions her career change when conflicts arise among iron-willed parishioners threatened by any hint of change.
Though Miranda is eager to implement her progressive ideas in her church community, her attempts to bring new flavors to the Thanksgiving meal, and her suggestions for bringing the “Pilgrims and Indians” story into the twenty-first century, are met with anger. When mysterious events reveal that someone has been living in the church basement, issues of sanctuary as a Christian response to human suffering provoke strong emotions on both sides, bringing simmering conflicts to a head. Facing a possible no-confidence vote from her parishioners, Miranda is tempted to accept an offer to resume her culinary career.
About prolonged grief, the effects of rigid traditionalism, and the nature of personal spiritual growth, the story is built on strong women characters, each of whom has a gripping backstory. Miranda sought meaning through ministry after her husband’s death from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis; her church secretary, Peg, hides her compassionate nature under extremes of cold efficiency; an elderly parishioner, Betty, bears secret grief beneath her resistance to change; and Alejandra, a pregnant nineteen-year-old, seeks asylum from violence in Honduras. Tensions peak when Alejandra goes missing in a violent storm with her baby on its way.
Despite the gravity of its events, the book’s tone is warm, inviting, and often humorous, as when a huge, slobbery Irish wolfhound puppy captures the heart of the frosty church secretary. Fast pacing supports its morphing events, and the climax is stunning in its revelation of each character’s secrets.
In the inspiring novel Widow’s Walk, a church community discovers the power of compassion, faith, and coming together to heal broken hearts.
Reviewed by
Kristine Morris
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
