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Wisteria House #3

Purest Joys Restored

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Wisteria House’s Troubled Past Demands a Reckoning

As a teenaged war hero, Brax Rutledge decided to disappear, causing untold hurt to his family and damage to his soul. Now, having finally surrendered to Christ, he grapples to find his purpose in the life he nearly threw away. While he works to achieve fame as a record-setting pilot, an old friend begs him to take on a complicated rescue effort. Thrown together with the girl he could never have, he must choose between his goals or her wellbeing—time and time again.

Hazel Atwood only ever wanted to serve the Lord. Jilted by her minister fiancé, then valued in ministry only for her vocal talents, she finds herself alone and about to lose everything. Desperate, she chooses a last-ditch option, never realizing the consequences cannot be undone. Her calling and her heart are soon at war, and she no longer understands either. Where can she find rest from her striving and meaning for her suffering?

The final secrets of Wisteria House will change all their lives forever.

335 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 3, 2024

17 people are currently reading
320 people want to read

About the author

Jennifer Q. Hunt

11 books192 followers
Born and raised in the Atlanta area, Jennifer's debut historical fiction work, Some Through the Fire, is set in that very city during the tumultuous events of 1917-1920. Jennifer has worked professionally as a tutor, ghostwriter, editor, and administrative assistant, including 10 years in vocational ministry. She and her husband Christopher live in the Atlanta area with their four young children. Jennifer stays busy writing, editing, homeschooling, and homemaking.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for Carrie Cotten.
Author 9 books366 followers
August 16, 2024
I knew this would be my favorite of the trilogy and I was right. I was crying, laughing and angrily plotting the end of a certain “villain” by 20% of the way through. I read it in 2 days l, I just couldn’t put it down.
The faith arc in this book- man it hit me right in the feels and is so solid it will knock you flat on your backside.
And the romance!!! Ahhh, the romance. Perfection. Chef’s kiss in all the ways.
In a word, this book is a real sockdolager!
Profile Image for Sarah Hanks.
Author 52 books164 followers
August 18, 2024
Wow! This was honestly one of the best books I've ever read. The character development is top-notch, and the spiritual thread is strong and meaningful. The subject of spiritual abuse and manipulation by someone in the pulpit hit hard for me, considering what has happened over the past year in a ministry I used to participate in. I thought it would be too hard to read right now, too fresh. Instead, it proved healing. Jennifer Hunt packs so much truth and grace into her novels. They are rich in history and paint a vivid picture. I didn't think she could top the last one in this series, but she pleasantly surprised me by outdoing herself in excellence. I can't recommend this enough.
Profile Image for Tawni Suchy.
Author 11 books697 followers
September 25, 2024
The perfect ending to the perfect series. The Wisteria House saga is what Christian romance should all be made of. It’s a mix of mystery, drama, hurts, healings, romance, and redemption. Brax’s story did not disappoint. His self-sacrificing love and devotion to Hazel in the midst of her heaviest struggles was equal parts heart breaking and heart melting. Their story was full of the unexpected in pretty much every way. Honestly there are a million things I can say about this story, but many of them would be spoilers and the last thing I want to do is spoil this story for anyone. Everyone who reads Christian romance needs this story—these stories—in their library and more importantly—their hearts. Because each of these books is full of rich, meaningful faith. Each of these stories is saturated in Jesus’ love, grace, glory, and redemption.

Ratings
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️++
💋💋
18+ (due to more adult subject matter through each of the books)
Profile Image for Charity.
603 reviews81 followers
June 20, 2025
WOW. What a book, what a series! This series has made Jennifer Q. Hunt an auto-buy author for me.
Profile Image for Tiffany Goldman.
70 reviews
December 20, 2025
What would it be like to do the thing you loved most for what truly mattered most?

What a sockdolager story (and audio performance)!

That’s it. Jennifer Q. Hunt is officially one of my favorite authors! Every time I pick up a book from her, I come away with so many highlighted quotes, revived spirit, and an even greater appreciation of all the ways the Lord works in our lives. Add on top of the fact that I kicked my feet like a giddy child at some of the funniest or swooniest moments—
And then sometimes I wanted to metaphorically throw the book across the room because of the antagonist or other characters who felt annoyingly lifelike. Seriously, some of my Kindle highlights consist of: 'this is crazy,' 'THIS MAN IS INSANE' 'Oh he gets on my nerves!'

IYKYK.

There's a vast difference between attending services on holidays and walking with Jesus every day.

The way the themes were handled was spot on, and the history was well-researched. And I loved the crossover with author Heather Wood's characters from her Finding Home series!

I’m not sure I can tell you which book in the Wisteria House trilogy is my favorite with absolute certainty… but it might be this one. Then again, had there been a fourth book, I’d probably say that one's my favorite.

I think I do love Brax a smidge more than the others, but I would befriend all of these main characters (and some side characters) if I could!

Leigh Foster did a fantastic job with the narration! Her acting and range are amazing, and I totally want to hear more audiobooks narrated by her.

The author/publisher gave me an audiobook copy for review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Profile Image for Heather Wood.
Author 7 books252 followers
August 17, 2024
Brilliantly written characters with a delightful array of forgotten history and new settings threaded through with powerfully biblical messages. Even through hard realities such as spiritual abuse, racism, disasters, and characters' poor health and resulting difficult decisions, Hunt brings us another endearing story of 1920s America, the faithful leading of a loving God, and a captivating sequence of events. Purest Joys Restored had me holding my breath and unable to put it down.
Profile Image for Jennifer Hunt.
Author 11 books192 followers
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August 7, 2025
The audio version is live, and once again narrator Leigh Foster knocked it out of the park!
Profile Image for Chelsie.
1,464 reviews
August 18, 2024
This novel had so much history in it, I loved it. This was the first of the series I have read and I did not feel lost at all but I know the other two books will give more depth to some of the characters in this one. I do look forward to reading the first two in this series to learn about the others in this family. This novel focuses on Braxton Rutledge and Hazel Atwood. Brax has turned his life around and wants nothing more than to fly. That is his passion and so when a family friend enlists his help to look for her missing granddaughter, he can hardly say no. Taking all the clues they have, he heads off to search for her. Hazel has just had her heartbroken and although she was afraid she wouldn't be accepted, it hurt when it was made clear right in front of her. With her engagement broken off and feeling like an orphan once again she finds refuge with a christian group traveling the country. Her voice is angelic and just what they needed and she once again feels needed but something just seems off and as they continue to travel she starts to get sick. When Brax finally finds Hazel, she is in dire need of medical care. Something is not right and the fear of TB is rampant. So they make a rash decision in the hopes that it will save her life. It's only temporary after all and Hazel feels her days are numbered anyways. Brax is still struggling with his past and who he wants to be, while Hazel is struggling with who she is and the past that has never really allowed her to trust anyone. But as always, God seems to have a plan. There was so much to this story and I loved reading about all of the other family members, Wisteria house as well as all of little historical tidbits in the back of the book. Thank you to the author for the complementary ebook. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
Profile Image for Kelsey Gietl.
Author 11 books99 followers
August 12, 2024
Jennifer Q. Hunt saved the best for last! All three of the books in the Wisteria House series are excellent and should be read in order with Purest Joys Restored as a wonderful conclusion for these characters. This redemption story/marriage of convenience story is beautiful in both aspects and a true testament to the change that can occur in one's life through surrender to Christ. It provides powerful insights into the nature of church scandal and clerical manipulation with sensitivity and compassion for all, creating a story that can resonate with anyone, no matter their denomination. It offers considerations for why a spiritual leader might fall to such a place, how those hurt by the church can rise to forgiveness, and how, even at the end, there is still hope for redemption. In between, Brax and Hazel, along with the supporting cast, provide several sweet moments and witty conversations that had me eager to walk with them every step of the way.

**I was a beta reader for this book, but was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.**
Profile Image for DevotedToHope.
654 reviews97 followers
November 23, 2024
Can God truly redeem even the most shattered past, giving purpose to what seemed irredeemable?
With Purest Joys Restored, the third book in this phenomenal series, we’re reminded that the answer is a resounding yes. This story is the conclusion to Brax Rutledge’s tumultuous journey and a masterclass in weaving history, faith, and raw emotions.

Brax’s battle with guilt and his search for meaning after surrendering to Christ gripped my heart. Watching him navigate his calling, torn between his dreams and a selfless rescue mission, was deeply moving. And then there’s Hazel Atwood, whose struggles with rejection and spiritual burnout (false preacher’s abuse) made her journey feel incredibly real and relatable. Together, Brax and Hazel’s stories intersect beautifully, offering readers a powerful glimpse into how grace, love, and purpose transform even the hardest trials when all is surrendered to Jesus.

The emotional weight of this book cannot be overstated. I laughed, cried, and even found myself angry on behalf of these characters. Yet, amid all the heartache, the story shines with the love, grace, and sovereignty of Jesus. The romance between Brax and Hazel? Perfection. A gentle, soul-deep love that grows through sacrifice and devotion, it’s a reminder of what Christ-like love should be.

Set against the rich backdrop of 1920s America, the historical elements brought an added depth to the narrative. The detailed exploration of post-war challenges, aviation milestones, and even church culture of the time enriched the story in ways that made me feel immersed in that era. But what truly stands out is the faith arc—a poignant, soul-stirring reminder of God’s ability to redeem and restore. The threads of grace, forgiveness, and purpose run deep, leaving an indelible mark on the reader.

This series has been a rare gem in Christian historical fiction, and this finale is the crown jewel. It’s not just a story; it truly is an experience. The lessons of grace and redemption the lives of the characters – all linger long after the last page is turned.

Do yourself a favor: read this series, starting with book one, Through Thorny Ways. Each installment builds on the last, and by the end, you’ll find yourself changed for the better. My only regret? That it’s over. I’ll be revisiting Wisteria House in my heart—and on my shelf—for years to come.
Profile Image for Anna |This Curly Girl Reads|.
403 reviews66 followers
September 28, 2024
4.5⭐️ I have so many thoughts. I loved this whole series, but this one was possibly my favorite.

One thing I appreciate about this author is her depth in writing. I’m not talking about drama, I’m talking about how I walk away from the stories challenged in my walk with the Lord. I highlighted numerous nuggets of wisdom given throughout this story. I also appreciated all the history 😍 The authors note?😱 that was packed full of so many interesting facts. Well done on your research, Jennifer Hunt!

Oh and the hymns 🎶 I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Brax from his previous actions in the first two books, but he was a great leading guy! His musical quirks were a perfect touch 🥰 I’m a pianist and our family loves to sing Also, so that was right up my alley. I hadn’t heard some of the quotes he used either.

Hazel had a lot going on, and sometimes her choices frustrated me, but I also related to some of her internal struggles and enjoyed watching her grow. Her granny Jewel had so much wisdom, and I definitely highlighted some of her wise counsel.

The Rutledge siblings have been a joy to get to know. I definitely felt mixed emotions about finishing this book/series😭❤️ I will likely revisit this series in the future.

Content: brothel mentioned, marriage of convenience (some convos/situations are more personal because of that), a couple of innuendos, racial issues discussed
Profile Image for Sara Hickman.
382 reviews13 followers
March 11, 2025
Wisteria House has far and away been one of my favorite series in the last 5 years. These books have the whole package: family drama, hard (HARD) topics, romance, but most importantly, redemption through Jesus and what HE has done. I have loved the point in the book when I see how the name came to be.

Purest Joys Restored follows Brax and Hazel as they navigate her illness and his past. We see more racial tension in this one and some more adult situations (necessary because of Brax's history but all closed door and not explicit at all). Because of this, I would suggest it for a slightly older audience than the other two.

I am so sad that this trilogy is over, but excited I have the Christmas novella to go! Thank you Jennifer Q. Hunt for writing this magnificent series!
Profile Image for Liz Chapman.
Author 2 books7 followers
August 12, 2024
Each of Hunt's heroes have made my heart melt like chocolate fondue, but somehow Brax Routledge has outdone them all. And I imagine he'd be rather smug about that.

Brax is the unapologetically swoon-worthy hero with a hymn to quote for every occasion. Together, he and Hazel, with their contrasting dreams and timbres, somehow still blend into a resonant harmonic chord. Redemptive themes infuse their opposites attract, marriage of convenience love story. But, of course, it's Brax, which means there is bound to be some turbulence.

This series is exquisite. I would highly recommend reading books 1 and 2 first to experience the beautiful restoration of Wisteria House and its characters.
Profile Image for Morgan Kues.
10 reviews6 followers
July 3, 2025
If the rest of this series hadn’t already done it, this book now firmly cemented Jennifer Q. Hunt’s place as my absolute favorite author. What a treasure to have such beautiful, faith-filled, historical, and theologically sound stories at our fingertips. Just wow!
P.S. Don’t skip over the author’s note at the end that somehow manages to make this sweet story even more appreciated.
Profile Image for Janet.
631 reviews3 followers
October 9, 2024
I loved this book. It was mainly Brax & Hazel's story, but was delighted that the rest of the family were in it too.
There was a lot of hard things that they all went through, that was hard to read on times. The Christian faith is, again all through this book - I love that. some of the quotes I particularly loved is "You are beloved by then Lord, made in His image, redeemed by His blood." & "The key is what it says in Galations, to walk in the Spirit. If we are following our Shepherd's leading, we don't have to figure it out. We surrender, but we don't strive. We follow, we obey, we accept. And if He is calling us to do some hard thing, He gives us grace for that."
It was interesting reading the word of the hymns too.
It is difficult writing a review and not put spoilers in to be honest. You just really need to read this series if you enjoy Christian historical fiction/family saga with a good Christian message. You will be blessed.
What I also really like about this series, is the Author's notes at the end. You can tell that she has done extensive research.
I read this via Kindle Unlimited.
Profile Image for Tara | Mercyandgracereads.
145 reviews20 followers
September 3, 2025
Purest Joys Restored by Jennifer Q. Hunt
Book 3 in the Wisteria House Series

I went directly into this book as soon as I finished book 2. I cannot recommend this series enough and this final book is my favorite of the series. Just the synopsis of this book might spoil a bit of book one so, I will simply give you a vague description and then my feelings on how this book unfolded.

A young lady caught in the grasp of a corrupt ministry leader falls deathly ill and must rely on the kindness of a near stranger to rescue her from the lies with which she’s being controlled and into the safety of God’s providential care.

The themes of love, forgiveness and redemption flow through the pages of this book and come to a resounding finale. The lives of the Rutledge family are told with truth and emotional rawness that draws you in to find out if the love of Jesus will reach and redeem all souls. My favorite aspect of these books is how the author shows that we cannot be pulled away from the truth by false teachings or even false narratives we speak to ourselves. Additionally, we cannot allow past hurt to distort our view of the love of God the Father and destroy the hope of our future in Christ.

I don’t know what else to say but… READ THIS SERIES! 😊
Profile Image for Sarah.
Author 14 books24 followers
September 6, 2024
Oh! This book! Just so good! It’s bittersweet to see this series wrapping up as I have so thoroughly enjoyed each and everyone, but everything came together just as it should. The way Hunt deals with the ups and downs of relationships, interwoven with real historical events and tragedies, as well as spiritual gifts and growth never ceases to suck me in. She so clearly balances the highs and lows of life without sugarcoating or sensationalizing, revealing deep truths in the midst of both pain and triumph. Can’t wait to see what she has in store next!
Profile Image for Beth Wong.
35 reviews
January 18, 2025
Beautiful

This novel, the whole series really, could have gone to one of two extremes, it could have been extremely cheesy, sweet and overlooking very real life problems which people still battle with today, problems such as mixed marriages, racism, power struggles, or it could have become a bitter call to radically change these problems. Rather than do either, Hunt has written a masterpiece effortlessly showing the triumph of love which doesn’t remove hardships but gives peace in them.
Profile Image for Lone.
193 reviews8 followers
June 30, 2025
It’s a blessing beyond to read Christian literature that is true to Scripture. These books are very well written and the stories are so great. What a joy to discover this author🙌 All glory to God🙏
Profile Image for Jenni Moeller.
354 reviews
November 25, 2024
Brax is my favorite!! I had a hard time with Hazel for most of the book, so that’s why I gave it 4 stars. Still, this series is one of my top Christian fiction series. I cried, laughed, and my chest ached with the hurts and rejections that came along. What an encouraging and heartwarming series!
Profile Image for Betsy.
490 reviews21 followers
August 2, 2024
What a beautiful conclusion to the Wisteria House series! This must-read series is definitely one to be read in correct sequence, as the events and development of the characters build upon each other. While the larger Rutledge family are well-represented, this book focuses on former prodigal brother Brax and the woman he’d met a year earlier, Hazel Atwood, a lovely young woman wanting to serve the Lord in ministry. This book captured my interest from the first page as the lives of Brax and Hazel intersected and past and present familial actions made significant impacts on present family members. This book will have you feeling a wide range of emotions and perhaps pulling out a tissue as you watch the characters strive to do what is best according to God’s guidance and grapple with issues of grace and forgiveness. The author’s notes at the end of the book added more detail and background information on the culture and events of the 1920s. Don’t miss this book or this series; it is so uplifting, encouraging and inspiring!

I received an advanced reader copy from the author. A review was not required and these are my own thoughts and opinions.
9 reviews
October 18, 2025
A fantastic conclusion to the Wisteria House Trilogy! Each book builds in anticipation as the story of Wisteria House unfolds. As all the secrets come to light, you will not be disappointed! This book was full of surprises (one unexpected twist left my jaw on the floor!) Seeing the way that God can redeem each of us through Brax’s story was so sweet. One of my favorite parts of the series has been watching where Jennifer took Brax’s character as he wrestled through his journey to God, and then the tremendous growth in Christ that followed his conversion. Of course, this book contains more thoroughly researched history — I literally learn so much in each book! One event in particular from this book was HUGE and devastated an entire state! Yet, I had never heard of it before reading this story. I love that reading a Jennifer Q. Hunt book always means that I will have the joy of reading an engaging, fabulous story, be encouraged in my walk with God, and also learn a good deal of American History that wasn’t covered in my history classes growing up! If you haven’t read this series, I think you are missing out on a great treasure!
Profile Image for Gretchen Garrison.
Author 3 books31 followers
Read
August 17, 2024
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series. This third book had so many beautiful moments and was a wonderful way to finish the series. Redemption is woven throughout the series, and this book is no exception. Every time I read a book by this author, I am amazed at how she includes historical details that are unexpected. I loved this book and highly recommend it. I am glad that I was able to read an early copy. I wanted to read and review this book. All opinions are my own!

More review to come soon!
Profile Image for Megan Soja.
Author 3 books140 followers
October 2, 2024
Once again, Jennifer Hunt delivers a story layered with such depth of characters, action, history, and spiritual truth that I could hardly put it down. I absolutely absolutely loved the final installment of the Wisteria House trilogy and how it brought together so many pieces from the entire series. The ending was perfect, the kind that makes you want to give the book a hug. Highly recommend this book and the whole series.
Profile Image for Emily.
207 reviews
September 16, 2024
Loved this wrap up to the Rutledge family’s story, although as always I’m sad to not have any more books to read. 😂 Thank you also for clarifying in your notes the connection to the Dinsmores, as I’ve read those books also but was getting confused about where/which author and series I knew those characters from. Haha! Loved how you connected them into your story!
Profile Image for Tabitha.
47 reviews8 followers
September 7, 2024
This might be my very favorite book by Jennifer Q Hunt. My favorite era! My favorite writing style! My favorite core of redemption for the characters throughout! Well done! Than you Jennifer!
Profile Image for Anna.
157 reviews
April 22, 2025
Would give 10 stars if I could!!! Wish this wasn’t the end of the series!! 💜🥲😍
Full review to come!!
**Here's my full review:**
If you’re looking for a story of redemption, a story of hope, a story of sacrificial love, then you’ve got to read Purest Joys Restored by Jennifer Q. Hunt. This is the third book in the Wisteria House series, and it was such a compelling story. Brax’s story is a wonderful example of how far the grace of God will reach. Brax and Hazel both reached their breaking points (though not at the same time), and both had to surrender to Christ. And then, they had to continue, day after day, choosing to surrender, no matter how hard that choice was. This story encouraged me so much; I didn’t want it to end. I loved their romance. It was achingly sweet. I also enjoyed seeing the rest of the gang- Adam and Arilee, Davis and Meg- and how they carried on with life during this time. I’m sad to say this is the end of the trilogy (except for a Christmas novella that I may just go read now!). I definitely shed some tears near the end! All the loose ends were tied up and my remaining questions were answered. These characters truly touched my heart, and I know this will remain one of my favorite series for a long time.
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