Lorea McKinley Hughes embarks on a journey to Paris to visit relatives, hoping that time and distance might reenergize her frame of mind in dealing with a troubled marriage. However, on the return voyage back to the United States, she meets Perry Frederick, a wealthy landowner, and an attraction between them transpires. Little did she know how this would eventually impact her life. Upon her return home, disagreement and friction continue to disrupt the marriage, and resolution or any type of compromise is not obtainable. Therefore, an unthinkable decision of divorce evolves, and she leaves her hometown and established residency elsewhere, eventually experiencing personal happiness and contentment. This unpredictable new life sustains her until an untimely death interrupts the joy of a deep friendship and abiding love.

After Lorea's death, her niece, Lori Davis, has the challenging task of dissolving the estate as a will and other important documents are mysteriously missing. In her search for the necessary documents, certain discoveries materialize as Lori stumbles on hidden photos, journals, and a manuscript in her aunt's art studio confirming a long-time, secret relationship with a man by the name of Perry Frederick. However, answers to pertinent questions related to the estate could not be found.

Many years later, Lori discovers additional information that clarifies the remaining mystery surrounding her aunt and her life at Escondido Cottage in Lillian, Alabama, unearthing new dimensions that provide a unique ending to The Widow of Escondido.