This Side of Heaven — Diane Dean White

Darlene arrives in rural Georgia with her two preschoolers to escape an abusive marriage. In hiding, she struggles to adjust to a secretive life among the pecan trees and gardenias. Then comes an unexpected visit from a neighbor. Detective Brett Gafee is married to his job and his community, and heir to large pecan orchards. Expectations of a loving relationship dwindle over the years, and he sets aside all thoughts of marriage. Then he introduces himself to Darlene. Is it fate or the Lord that brought them together? Will Darlene adjust to the southern ways and become the loving wife she so desperately wants to Brett? Can she imagine the life that awaits her?