Another great book by Tracie Peterson. There was a love story ,intrigue and even a murder. Can't wait to see if there's another in this series. ( )

The Saphire bride series books have nothing to do with one others. They take place many years apart in Montana. They all mention sapphires. That is we’re the commonality ends.

An arrange marriage, murder, espionage, ( )

“A Love Transformed” is the third and final book in author Tracie Peterson’s “Sapphire Brides Series”. Clara Vesper is a talented jewelry designer, making the stunning sapphire creations sold by her husband Adolph’s company. Their arranged marriage was a business relationship which had appeared profitable, but upon Adolph’s sudden death, Clara learns that she is a widow without means. She and her two small children must leave New York and return to the home of her relatives in Montana. She had once known happiness at the ranch of her aunt and uncle, and there she had also met the love of her life, Curtis Billingham. Much has changed since she left so long ago. Curtis is recovering from serious injuries he received in a mining accident. His spirit seems as broken as his body. Clara is followed to Montana by her late husband’s brother, Otto, and he intends to force Clara to bring her design skills back to the company in New York. Otto is not the only threat to Clara and her children—secrets from her husband’s hidden life are a looming danger. Clara must reconcile the disappointments of her past with new hope for the future—abiding faith must fill her heart and give her the strength she needs to keep her family safe. Will there be a new and happy life for them all, one filled with love and promise? Author Tracie Peterson’s love of history and in-depth research once again blend with her personal faith and admirable storytelling skills as she brings this series to a close.

Review Copy Gratis Bethany House Books ( )

A Love Transformed by Tracie Peterson is the third book in the Sapphire Brides series. Clara Vesper lives with her husband, Adolph is New York City in April of 1917. Clara’s was an arranged marriage by her mother. Adolph and Clara have been married twelve years when she receives word that he was murdered in an alley. She is told very dispassionately by her husband’s secretary, Jack Brindleson. Otto Vesper, Adolph’s twin brother, comes around and tells Clara that Adolph was in serious debt. That the home and its furnishing are all owned by Otto. He assures her that he will continue to take care of her (I’m sure he has a plan). Otto and Adolph owned a jewelry company. Adolph was known as the person who designed their beautiful jewelry that utilizes Yogo sapphires from Montana. Clara is the actual designer. Clara is worried that once her mother finds out she is a widow, she will swoop in and arrange another loveless marriage (she’s right). Clara begins making plans for herself and her children (twins: Hunter and Maddy). Clara wishes to return to Montana to her Aunt Madeline and Uncle Paul. She is also hoping to reconnect with Curtis Billingham, her one true love. But will Otto and her mother let her get away that easily. Otto needs Clara for her design talent and he may not have been completely truthful with her about a few matters. Clara’s mother has her own motives. Will Clara be able to find happiness in Montana?

A Love Transformed is an easy novel to read, but it is extremely predictable. It is easy to predict how the story will play out once we are introduced to the characters. The book contains good writing, but I just wanted more. This novel can be read without having enjoyed the previous books in the series. I found Clara to be extremely naïve. She took what she was told at face value. Considering her age and position in society, she should have been a little savvier (at least double check what she was told by Otto). I also thought that since fourteen years have passed since she last saw Curtis, her love would not be as deep or emotional. First love is sweet, but usually not lasting. Overall, A Love Transformed is a sweet book, but not my favorite in the series. I give A Love Transformed 3.5 out of 5 stars (it was okay). This will not stop me from enjoying books by Tracie Peterson in the future.

I received a complimentary copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review. The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own. ( )

To some it appears Clara Vesper leads a charmed life. She lives in a New York City mansion and lacks for nothing. She has two beautiful children that she adores. The truth is that she has endured a loveless marriage arranged by her domineering mother who had torn her away from Curtis, the only man she ever truly loved. When Clara's husband is murdered she is forced to make decisions for herself. She decides to make a major life change for herself and her children. Quietly and secretly, she takes her family to her aunt and uncle's ranch in Montana. This is the only place she had ever known happiness. What ensues after their arrival is not what she expected or hoped for. Curtis has changed and initially rejects her. While her children thrive in their new surroundings, Clara does not know how she can live so close to the man she still loves when he tells her he does not share her feelings. As if this isn't enough, she and her children face grave danger at the hands of her mother and her former brother-in-law. Does she have the strength and courage to fight for the safety of her family? Can she convince Curtis that the love they once shared is still very much alive?

This is a well told story that deals with serious issues which includes murder, treason and treachery. The well drawn characters are compelling. Clara, Curtis and her family take great emotional risks, all the while drawing upon their faith. Even the villains in this story are realistic.

I found this to be an exciting and engrossing story. I highly recommend reading it.

I received this book for free from Bethany House and the opinions expressed in this review are my own. ( )