Because Christmas was approaching fast, I read a few " Best violins for students..." reviews, I ordered this kit, which comes with too much at this price to make me confident:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I know one of the music teachers in our school district and he didn't give the brand a good review at all, but the Amazon reviews were not bad at all. He suggested a used Yamaha. I'd have to get into the $350 range for one of those. I don't mind the step up in price at all, if my wife really wants to take learning a new instrument with enthusiasm.