Through the Valley of Shadows by Meredith Resce
When tragedy strikes unannounced, Christine Shore is certain that she will never feel the same again. It seems the only course left is to shoulder the responsibility of her orphaned niece and nephew. Jack Browning, the children's uncle on the other side, has proposed to marry Christine for the sake of the children. Could any suggestion be more outrageous? Could any man seem more insensitive? Christine is faced with a choice. The family has made it clear that she is under no obligation to raise the children. Presented with an opportunity to travel overseas with her sister-in-law, she chooses to let Jack find another woman to fulfil his hasty vow to care for his brother's family. After a terrible experience in England, Christine returns wishing she had taken up Jack's offer when presented.