Transformation

The Kingdom Chronicles #10

by Camille Peters

What if the Swan Princess and the Black Swan were one and the same?

After the darkness of her difficult childhood, Ramsey has found a single spot of light in her unexpected friendship with Crown Prince Nolan, a relationship that gradually deepens to romance as they grow up together. Even though she's captured the heart of the prince, Ramsey believes herself to be undeserving...as does the king when he discovers his son's affections have been secured by a mere servant.

After a royal threat forces Ramsey to break the prince's heart and let him go, she tries to rebuild her life without him...until she stumbles upon an enchanted lake whose magic will transform her into one deserving to stand at her dear Nolan's side.

But all magic comes at a cost. The more Ramsey is forced to sacrifice to the curse, the more of herself she loses, until she has become someone unrecognizable to the woman Prince Nolan initially fell in love with. Only beneath the moonlight does the magic weaken enough for her to rediscover her true self and the relationship she sacrificed.

It's only by losing herself and the prince's heart that Ramsey finally learns what it means to truly love...if it's still not too late for her to reclaim it. Will she be able to strip away the illusion of the black swan to reveal the swan that had been within her the entire time, or will she lose herself and her beloved to the curse forever?

Inspired by "Swan Lake"

Genres: Fantasy, Fairy Tales, Fairy Tale Retellings, Romance, Retellings

372 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 14, 2023

About the author

Camille Peters was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah where she grew up surrounded by books. As a child, she spent every spare moment reading and writing her own stories on every scrap of paper she could find. Becoming an author was always more than a childhood dream; it was a certainty.

Her love of writing grew alongside her as she took local writing classes in her teens, spent a year studying Creative Writing at the English University of Northampton, and graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in English and History. She’s now blessed to be a full-time author.

When she’s not writing she’s thinking about writing, and when’s she’s not thinking about writing she’s…alright, she’s always thinking about writing, but she can also be found reading, at the piano, playing board games with her family and friends, or taking long, bare-foot walks as she lives inside her imagination and brainstorms more tales.

Reviews

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my word!!! I loved this one so much! I know I say that a lot (or every time) with books by Camille Peters! But it is soooo true! I devoured this one today! I loved it and didn't want it to end. I need more please!!!

Ramsey and Crown Prince Nolan meet when they are younger and it was so sweet to watch their friendship develop over time. I've always loved what I've seen of Nolan's character in the previous Kingdom Chronicle books but this book solidified it even more why I like his character! He is just a really good person and truly caring about others! Regardless of their circumstances and station. You'll love him as you read this one! Even if you haven't read the previous books and don't know anything about him, you can definitely read this as a stand alone and you'll love it!

Ramsey goes through a couple big transformations in this book. Physically and mentally. I'm sure we can all see bits and pieces of ourselves in her character. Which really made her character more endearing. We all have insecurities and need to find a way to face them and love ourselves and be champions for ourselves! It was a truly beautiful transformation! I loved how the author wove the Swan Princess and Black Swan stories together into this story!

If you are a fan of fairytales and happily ever afters, wonderfully developed characters, a sweet love story that has to endure many trials to survive, and just a delightful book...you need to read this one!!!

Content: Clean.

I received a copy from the author through StoryOrigin. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Camille]

I started writing this story three years ago with an entirely different plot (though based on the same fairytale), but it didn’t feel quite right, so I temporarily shelved it. It’s only recently that I realized what story really needs to be told through my reimagining of Swan Lake. It always feels slightly daunting to put my own spin on something as beloved as this ballet is to me, as well as to finally pen the story for someone as loved as a character as my hero Prince Nolan is to many of my readers. However, this story’s direction has naturally unfolded in ways I couldn’t initially imagine, making me feel that the characters are directing their own tale. I sincerely hope that those who read it can gain strength from Ramsey’s journey of self-love and being true to herself.


Trigger Warnings: Implied Physical/Emotional Abuse (With some minor depictions on page, never from the Hero)

[Book Worm · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I love Camille Peters books. I look forward to all of her releases! I have been looking forward to Prince Nolan’s book for a long time and I’m excited that it’s here! The characters in this were amazing and I love getting lost in this world!

[Alesha · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet and swoony star-crossed, friends to lovers fairytale romance and one of the most unique retellings of Swan Lake I've ever read.

I love how Ramsey was both the swan princess and the black swan, her own insecurities holding her captive. Her struggle with seeing her own worth was so relatable and poignant, especially coupled with tender-hearted Nolan.

Nolan was the sweetest cinnamon roll hero, believing in their love despite all the obstacles they faced making their romance so tender. You ach for them and their struggles unable to be together because of their station differences.

A true story of love conquering all. I adored watching how they each helped the other grow and become better. A delightful romantic adventure written in an almost lyrical way making you love the characters and truly connect to their struggles.

Happy reading!
Alesha Adamson

[avi ౨ৎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rate: 4.70
Age: +10
Spice: Only Kisses
Triggers: Self Doubt, abuse
Trope: Childhood Best friends to Lovers, Fairy tale Reimagining of Swan Lake
FMC: 3.90/5
MMC: 4.50/5

Overall Review:
This story is a perfect Swan Lake book. I love the lesson in here: To always love yourself, to never belittle your feelings. This book was a little unrealistic like I mean the characters were. As you saw my rating I could not feel any connection towards Nolan our MMC. But only a little from Ramsy our FMC. It just I didn't like all of the self doubt she had in herself. But what I do like is how she push through the tough times. But anyways this book made me read all night long. It is a very quick read and I love it like the rest of the series!!!

[Sarah Beran · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than a fairy tale

One of the things I love about Camille Peters’ stories is her ability to bring a realness to her characters. Nolan isn’t just some shallow Prince Charming entrances by a pretty face, and Ramsey isn’t just a girl who falls in love with a prince. These characters have depth and complexity. Their story is one of love and magic, yes, but also pain and vulnerability and the importance realizing that we all have inherent worth. The happy ending was hard-fought for, and all the more beautiful because of it.

This is a story I will be thinking about for a long time.

[Sierra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reader’s Notes:

– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone

– this is told from Ramsey/Odette’s point of view

– Ramsey grew up with her abusive aunt after her parents passed away due to an illness

Review:

(This book doesn’t quite have the happily ever after that’s typically expected from a fantasy romance book that stands alone, but it makes sense for their situation. I hope that in future books we will get to see them get their unhidden happiness together!)

I’ve read almost all of the other books from this series so I’ve been anticipating Prince Nolan’s story, especially since in one of the books we found out that he was in love with his servant best friend. I loved that we got to see how Ramsey & Nolan first met and their journey to becoming friends and then to becoming more in this book! It was so much better than where I expected it to start (I expected it to start sometime after one of the other books…which would have been about midway through their entire story). I loved that we could see the growth in Ramsey as Nolan continued to show her that he wasn’t going anywhere & that he was going to become her friend. It was lovely (and soon after heartbreaking) to see them discovering that they might feel something more for their best friend. I loved that Camille Peters showed what true love means throughout this story in addition to true worth. I loved the whole message surrounding the black swan swimming with the white swans (why should being different be a bad thing?). I also enjoyed getting to see Nolan’s sister in a different light in this story. The other stories (mainly Identity) showcased the rude front she put on, and while this one starts this way, there is a few moments showing a much kinder side that I hope we get to see more of in later books!

Summary:

Ramsey and Crown Prince Nolan have been friends since childhood. Though their lives and stations are miles apart from each other, he still makes time to see Ramsey and keep their friendship. Ramsey has never had anyone treat her like Nolan does, and she finds herself falling for her best friend and he with her. But a relationship between a servant and the crown prince is forbidden by Nolan’s father the king, and he is willing to go to any length to make sure it stops.

So Ramsey makes the choice to step aside to protect the only person who has seen her true worth. Though it hurts her to let him go, she knows that Nolan needs to move on if their kingdom is going to prosper under his reign. Which means Ramsey needs to be far away living a life of her own outside the palace.

But no matter how hard she tries, Ramsey can’t let go of Nolan. And when she happens upon an enchanted lake near her home, Ramsey finds herself willing to give up anything to be someone that the other royals approve of and finally have her happily ever after with Nolan. Even when it means to becoming someone entirely different than the girl she’s grown to be since Nolan rescued her…

[Silver Swan · Rating 5 out of 5]

🦢 Book Review 🦢

I was drawn in from the very start by Camille Peters' beautifully lyrical writing in TRANSFORMATION. Poetic writing styles are usually my favorite in books, and hers complemented the mystical, otherworldly cover below so well, adding a sense of hushed mystery and enchantment to the storyline. The fact that the novel is based on SWAN LAKE when THE SWAN PRINCESS has been such a key story in my life only added to the magic. ✨

However, at the same time, there is a sense of poignancy. A key thematic thread relates to the discovery of self-worth. In fact, it is so important to the storyline that the author begins with this sweet dedication: "To all those who struggle with self love. Please know that you are valued and deserve your own happily ever after." Without giving away spoilers and with the assurance that this is a clean novel, Ramsey has dealt with traumatic experiences that have negatively impacted this feeling of self-worth. And so, while TRANSFORMATION is a love story, it is also largely an individual journey. Yet it all connects, as it is after she meets and befriends Nolan, a true prince who has a keen ability to see her special, unique qualities, that she is able to begin that important journey.

The relationship between Ramsey and Nolan contains in it elements of the writing style. That is to say, there is deep beauty. Since it begins when they are children, there is also a wonderfully nostalgic feel. The way that young Nolan, from the very start, begins to look after Ramsey is so incredibly endearing and sweet. I adored those scenes as they begin to get to know each other. But the aforementioned poetry also may be found in their relationship. One of my favorite aspects of TRANSFORMATION is "the fairy tale within a fairy tale." Ramsey's favorite fairy tale (one presumably made up for this novel), "The Daisy Princess," not only becomes dear to Nolan, but serves a remarkable atmospheric and metaphorical role and parallel. The first flower crown scene remains one of my favorites, and the way that this is reflected later is also moving. Ramsey and Nolan are both drawn to the written word, and I loved how the two would tell each other stories. Also, from a writerly perspective, Camille's characters would definitely be kindred spirits of my own, particularly in the first library scene. ;)

TRANSFORMATION follows Nolan and Ramsey over the course of several years, and, through the well-constructed characterization, the reader is invited to see them as real people. While they have a difficult journey both individually and together, there is depth and meaning to be found. I won't give away the ending, of course, but there may just be a sequel in store.

This was my first Camille Peters novel—and what a lovely introduction it was! I look forward to reading more. ✨ 🦢

[abi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I gotta say, I wasn’t sure what to expect for Nolan and Ramsey’s story, only that it would be good. And wow did Camille exceed expectations once again!

I’ve never read a Swan Lake retelling like this before. Having Odette be a physical manifestation of Ramsey’s insecurities (I can’t come up with a better way to describe it) was definitely a unique take on the tale.

In a way, Nolan and Ramsey’s romance reminded me of Taryn and Xander’s from Forgotten, while not at all feeling like the same plot line, despite both being forbidden romance. I haven’t ever seen this trope paired with childhood friends to lovers, though, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, to my surprise. I’m normally not a huge fan of friends to lovers as it often feels forced, but with how Camille started the book with Ramsey and Nolan 10 and 12 respectively, and continuing the first few chapters as they grew into their teens and finally early 20s, allowing us to see their friendship begin and then deepen into love, I didn’t get the almost fan-fiction vibe I get from most friends to lovers plots.

I will say there were times when I felt like Ramsey and Nolan’s relationship felt isolated and borderline unhealthy, but as the story progressed I was pleased to see both Ramsey and Nolan grow and address the problems in their relationship instead of burying them. There have been too many times I’ve read similar relationships that did not resolve their problems in a healthy way, and I’m glad that this did not fall into that pattern. Ramsey and Nolan’s fight near the end of the book and how they then took the time to come to a resolution together, alongside Ramsey finally learning to love herself in addition to Nolan, was the final piece in proving that they do (at last) have a healthy relationship. Plus the mentions of Ramsey beginning to make friends in the epilogue proved that she wasn’t going to end up one of those heroines totally absorbed in her love interest.

I look forward to seeing more of Ramsey and Nolan in future books, as so much felt unresolved while simultaneously still having a happy ending. I’m eagerly awaiting the moment we learn that their relationship is no longer a secret, even while I can content myself with the current resolution until then.

One final thing is that this book has only further my excitement for Lavena’s story! In Beacon we got to see some more character development from her, and in Transformation, while she doesn’t play as big of a role, she is still key in securing Ramsey and Nolan’s relationship (I do find it rather ironic that Lavena, the one who lost her love, has aided at least 3 other romances).

*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own*

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

Torn between 3 and 4 stars for this but decided to round up because even though I had some issues with the execution, I couldn't put it down, and readability is one of the most important aspects of fairy tale stories for me.

First, the positives:
✨ Really unique and fun spin on the Swan Lake story. I was surprised by the direction the story took, and I enjoyed how Peters incorporated Swan Lake elements into Noland and Ramsey's story
✨ Finally getting Nolan's story!
✨ More glimpses of Lavena not being a terrible person- I'm really hoping for Lavena's story soon!
✨ Nolan / Ramsey's relationship was super cute
✨ Couldn't put it down! Despite the things I didn't enjoy about the book, it was definitely engrossing- I had to know what was going to happen next!

Now, for the less positives:
👎 Pacing

The first third of the book was slow. This time is setting the backstory for Nolan and Ramsey's relationship, but anyone who's solely reading this for Swan Lake is going to be disappointed because there's no clear connection until after that third.

But after this long build up, crucial magical elements are introduced in an almost blink-and-you'll-miss-it way. The whole concept of the curse was really interesting and I enjoyed reading it, but I wish it had been introduced in a less abrupt way. And then.... The last couple of chapters happened in a rush, which brings me to the next point...

👎No resolution for the central conflict which was the King not accepting Ramsey as good enough to be queen

There were so many different directions the story could have gone at the ending, but the actual ending just felt unsatisfying. If I knew there was going to be a sequel to Nolan and Ramsey's story, I think it would bother me less, but it's frustrating knowing that the entire conflict of the Transformation will likely be resolved with a throwaway line in a future book. There was enough content in the epilogue that could have been its own story.

This was the first time I've ever agreed with the parents in one of the "you must marry someone of your station!" types of stories because... at the beginning, Ramsey is definitely not cut out to be queen. I think there could have been a really compelling story here about Ramsey slowly coming into herself over the story until everyone has to admit that, yes, she has actually learned enough to be a good queen. Some of this character growth is there, but unfortunately that's not the direction the story went.

Despite my criticism, I did really enjoy the story. The most frustrating part was just knowing how engrossed I was in the story and just how close this came to being a solid 4-5 star read for me.

Thanks to the author for a review copy!

[Mary Mecham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my heart.

Every time I read a Camille Peters book, I feel so uplifted by the wholesomeness of the story she tells. I sympathized with Ramsey from the first paragraph, wanted to see her saved from her awful situation in childhood, and shipped her and Nolan big time. Ramsey needed a friend, and Nolan came at just the right time.

I loved when they met when they were kids, and the line that endeared 12 year old Nolan to me was "I'm rather inexperienced in the part of rescuing someone. It appears I'm not strong enough to be as gallant as I wish, but I can at least allow you to ride on my back." 😍

How adorable is that?! I also knew that the romance blossoming between Ramsey and Nolan was too good to be true when it was moving forward early in the book, and absolutely had my heart ripped out and stomped on (in the best way possible!)

The language Peters uses is always so beautiful and immersive; I always sink into her stories then resurface hours later completely unaware of how much time has past because I was so caught up in the book.

I can often guess the endings of stories, but Transformation's conclusion did not have the ending I expected! I love being pleasantly surprised by things like that, and though it didn't turn out the way I had anticipated, I think the ending Camille Peters wrote was better than what I has assumed would be the case, and I am looking forward to more stories set in this world!

Overall, this is a beautiful story with a powerful message and rich language that will leave readers feeling warm and fuzzy all over when they see Ramsey conquer her obstacles and fight for a happily ever after. Thanks to Camille Peters for writing this incredible book!

[Millie Breakspeare · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful second chance romance.

I have been waiting for Nolan's story ever since he played matchmaker between Liam and Anwen all the way back in Identity, and this book didn't disappoint.

I think everyone can relate to Ramsey as some point in their lives. Everyone has fears and insecurities that they have to face. She has such sweetness and gentleness but struggles to reach out to others, feeling safer by keeping her heart closed as she fears being a burden to others. Her journey to self acceptance and seeing her own worth so she was then able to fight for others was beautiful.

Nolan constantly fought for his happy ending, and thoroughly deserves it. He is such a kind person, constantly working to help others and make it through Ramsey's walls. He can be idealistic at times, not wanting to see the darkness and heaviness that's below the seemingly happy and content waterline. But he works on this and learns that it's alright to get into arguments and for things not to be alright as long as you work through them.

I loved the ways Camille played with the original ballet. She replaced the element of the prince mistaking Odile for Odette, which is one of my biggest bugbears in Swan Lake, since Nolan would never mistake anyone for Ramsey. Plus, I loved the way she twisted the idea of the white and black swan into being two sides of the same person, with one side born out of Ramsey's fears and insecurities.

I hope we'll get to see Nolan and Ramsey in future books, with Lavena's story still to come I believe this will be likely, and get to see where their lives end up after the epilogue as this story doesn't end with the definitive happy ending that the previous books do but still on a very hopeful note.

[Angeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
Wow, this book was just so good. I have been eagerly awaiting Nolan’s book and it did not disappoint. I have to admit that it did take me a little while to get into it but I ended up loving it. Transformation is the 10th book in the Kingdom Chronicle series.
Ramsey and Nolan had just the sweetest relationship. I love how they were childhood friends and then grew to more. However they did have a lot of difficulties they had to overcome. The romance was perfect and I liked how their relationship grew as they themselves grew.
I really felt for Ramsey as she tried to find her place in life. Those around her have not been kind and she was struggling to let Nolan in. It was cool to read about Ramsey growing throughout the book as she tried to figure out who she was. Nolan was the sweetest. I loved getting to read about him through Ramsey’s eyes. He was just trying his best. He had fallen hard for Ramsey but he had to figure out how to care for her and what their future would look like. Nolan had to learn to truly see Ramsey.
Both Ramsey and Nolan had to grow and learn from their mistakes. The characters were engaging and I grew to love them from the beginning. The hints of Swan Lake were intriguing and the plot was interesting.
Transformation is a must read! It is amazing and I loved this fairytale inspired by Swan Lake. Peters always writes such engaging stories with surprising twists and turns that reflect the inspired fairy tale. I would definitely recommend Transformation. Transformation is a clean fairytale inspired romance.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

[Karen J · Rating 4 out of 5]

We have gotten a peek into Nolan's story in some of the previous books. We are now getting his story written from the point of view of Ramsey. Ramsey is a 10 year old girl who Nolan (a 12 year old crown prince) rescues from her spinster aunt who beats her. He brings her to the palace and provides a place as a servant. As they grow up into adults, Nolan always has a soft spot for Ramsey and their friendship grows into something more. Ramsey always feels restricted by her station in life as a servant and unworthy of anything more. Nolan sees through all of this and loves her for who she is. The King doesn't approve of a mere servant becoming the crown princess and pushes Nolan to find a more suitable wife. Ramsey, in her despair and hoping to help Nolan forget her runs away. She never forgets him and makes a wish to be the kind of woman that the King would approve of. A magic lake hears her wish and makes it come true. By day she becomes Lady Odette and by night she is Ramsey. Ramsey learns quickly that her wish is really a curse. Every day Lady Odette and Ramsey fight for control and the heart of the prince. Can Ramsey and Nolan find a way to break the curse before it's too late?
I have enjoyed reading this series. Unfortunately for me, I keep having to wait for the next book to come out. This is a very interesting retelling of the Swan Lake story with a little bit of the Ugly Duckling woven into the story.

[Ava · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Goodness.

I think this is my favorite one since Identity. Which is saying something, because I love all of Camille's books.

This one, however, outdid itself. Wow.

Okay,so, the book begins with Ramsey and Nolan as children. And it doesn't just show them as kids in the first chapter, but all throughout the book, too. Which I thought was so refreshing. And it didn't feel like their relationship was forced or that they fell in love too soon. Because they had been in love for years.

Nolan was so sweet, and a better prince than I ever could have imagined he would be. I loved him in Identity, but he was just amazing in Transformation. And Ramsey was just a sweetheart. She reminded me a lot of Anwen. That's probably why I loved this book so much. It did not disappoint.

In fact, even the parts I didn't like only added to Camille's writing. The royal family, who is all horrible except for Nolan (and I see you Camille trying to make me feel bad for Lavena, I will keep holding out!). Camille wanted us to hate them though, and she definitely succeeded!!!

I can't wait to read the next book in the series, and this one is definitely not one to skip.

(but seriously, Camille, if you see this, please tell me that Lavena's story isn't going to undo the perfect ending of Identity. I'm putting my trust in your hands)

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and unique Swan Lake retelling. I also didn’t expect the role reversal. At least, not in the way it occurred.
No character is named Odile, so the black swan here is Ramsey. Or is it? Black swan and white swan reverse and merge. I’m impressed with how seamless the plot turned out. The changes make this book engaging to read. It took me a while to get started, but once I did, the plot was enchanting.
As for the characters, I love that we get Prince Nolan’s story and can find out what happened with Ramsey. We’ve heard of her in the past, but now we get to actually learn who she is. Ramsey is an interesting character whose story is one of discovery. She learns about the value of identity and self-worth. She’s a combination of Rhea from Reflection, Reve from Awakened, and Anwen from Identity, but also uniquely her own character. I wish the ending had been different, but it’s still an HEA.
The magical lake is enchanting and follows what I would expect of Camille Peters’ world building abilities. I would recommend this book to any who already love this world, who want a story of discovering self-worth, and/or fans of Swan Lake. Or really anyone who wants a sweet, clean fairytale romance. 9.5/10

*I received an ARC with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.”

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Transformation” is one of my new favorite books from the talented Camille Peters. She is so good at writing books with heart, characters that feel real and are relatable, romances that are sweet and satisfying, and magic that is captivating and unique. This book delivers on all accounts. I was excited that this book is inspired by Swan Lake. I am intrigued by that tale and haven’t read any other retellings of it. The author did such a wonderful job with this one! The way the retelling was done was fascinating—I don’t want to give anything away so just trust me that it is imaginative and well done! I loved that it not only was a clever way to retell the original tale, but as we come to understand the curse more deeply it prompted me to consider my own worth and how to battle darkness within myself. I love when books do that. I believe it is the mark of a good author when their story can hold a mirror up to yourself and gently teach and uplift you. Lastly, I have to say that the romance between our two protagonists is one of my favorites. I definitely recommend this book to any fans of sweet romance, retellings, and fascinating magic. I will reread this one, for sure (which I don’t do often)!

[Sarah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful but tragic retelling of swan lake. I can't even count how many time it had me tearing up. Nolan was always that prince I felt needed his own story. He would go out of his way to help others with their Happily Ever After. So I'm so glad he finally got his time to shine. I feel like we can all relate to Ramsey. That shy, quite, girl nextdoor, who is trying to hide her insecurities.
I found this story captivating. Camille's writing has grown so much from Pathways to Transformation. I have loved reading every single one of her stories. Each one reopening my imagination to this beautiful world she has created. I immerse myself into the stories and find the characters feel more like old friends then anything else. I enjoy getting to catch up with old friends while making new ones with each book.
I was lucky enough to get a ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I loved this book and I'm eagerly awaiting the next in this series.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really excited to read this book since for years I have been looking forward to reading Nolan and Ramsey's story. The story immediately pulled me in, and at times it was hard to put the book down. This was an interesting take on the Swan Princess story.

I really enjoyed seeing Nolan and Ramsey's relationship grow and develop over the years and throughout the book. The story's ending was somewhat disappointing since not everything was resolved. I hope we'll see how things are fully resolved in future books (maybe even in one about Lavena).

In the end, I have some mixed feelings about this book. But overall, I really enjoyed this story. I will definitely be rereading my favorite parts, and I could see myself rereading the entire book as well.

Content: Clean
Source: Review Copy

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not familiar with the Swan Lake story, but getting to experience it for the first time in Transformation was such a delight! Ramsey is just the sweetest thing! Her story and background tug at your heartstrings, and her friendship with Nolan is just the absolute cutest. thing. ever!!

I love the realism in their relationship, and how we got to see their ups and downs, and how they choose to work through them together. I felt all the feels reading this!

Once again, I am blown away by the creativity in the plot of this book. I loved anticipating what was going to happen, and seeing how the characters grew and got themselves out of their trying situations!

I just love this story and this series!!

[William · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was worried about this one because most versions of the Swan Lake saga end in tragedy; I'm so happy that the couple was able to live through their ordeals and plan for their future life together.

As for the story itself, it was lovely. Seeing Ramsey change herself through magic was one thing, but seeing her *truly* transform herself through her own force of will was amazing. Inspirational, even. It's something so many of us have been longing to do for ourselves, though we often lack the courage to really try. Also the way they both deal with betrayal and eventual forgiveness, so many things done in innocence are often still so damaging. The ability to transform past the hurt and the anger and let love return is another thing we all need in our lives.

[Ann S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

a masterpiece

I absolutely loved this story! The writing was so poetic and flowed so effortlessly. I felt like I was there with Ramsey—was her. Just loved the lake and the moon! Such a cool and unique spin on the swan lake. One of my favorites from camille! It was so sweet and I adored how pure and wholesome this relationship was. It is so beautiful to see how constant Nolan is and how he would do all he can to be with Ramsey. I also loved how Ramsey tried to do what she thought was right, how she loved Nolan so much she tried to change but we learn she never needed to change. Such an inspiring story and powerful message. Another wondering story from Camille and I am so so looking forward to the next one!

[Dee/ bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly could not put this book down once I started reading it! Standing alone this is one of the best novels Peters has written. Stepping back and looking closer, I am amazed at the intricate web she has woven. She has written (probably a dozen) books in her head all at the same time! I don't know how she keeps them straight, but as someone who has read every precious book this author has written, she has added cameo, scenes, intertwined lives in these books. She makes it appear random, but its amazing how these snippets from some of her first books come into play with major parts of this book and her other books. They are all connected in some way, the ability is mid-boggling.

Great job, Ms. Peters!! Another wonderfully enchanting story!! Thank you for the honor of reading it!

[Lucy Winton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Transformation is a story about realising self-worth, and a black swan realising she belongs in the lake after all. It's about not letting your fears take control of your life.

Ramsey...does not have the highest confidence. The treatment she gets from the other servants doesn't exactly help, but Prince Nolan is deeply in love with her. Unfortunately, he belongs to the Lycerian royal family and if you've read CP's other books, you'll know they can be a bit difficult to say the least.

One of the most interesting things about it was a gentle softening of a certain character.

This is a beautiful book. If you're struggling to find your own self-worth and wrestling with your fears, this book is for you.

[Tessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thoughts (of which there are quite a few):

- I have not read a Camille Peters book in a year, and I forgot just how LONG and emotionally drawn-out they are.
- My dog's name is Ramsey.
- I do not mean this with any offense towards the author, but the dialogue here feels weird and not like anything anyone would actually say. I get the vibe she was going for, but still.
- What kind of king threatens not just an innocent servant but his own son?! I was hoping he'd die at the end tbh.
- Princess Lavena story when?
- (Spoiler warning) If their happily-ever-after is resolved in like, the next book I'm going to be a little disappointed. Give them at least two more to draw out the angst.
- Overall, I enjoyed this. 4 stars.

[Adrianja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yay! I finally had time to read this lovely book! I have been waiting a while to see how Nolan's story would play out!

I love his sweet friendship with Ramsey, starting out when they were kids and glimpses into how it grew over the years. I enjoyed the themes of honesty in relationship and that bearing one another's burdens deepens a relationship instead of ending/ruining it. I think the twist on the adversary was an interesting one and brought new dynamics to the story.

Also, as a side note, this book makes me even more excited to one day read Princess Lavena's own story!!

#friendstosecretlovers #clean #swanlake

[Tenna Chatman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A real winner

Beautiful story of friendship, love, coming of age, insecurities and even betrayal. Sweet love that seems hopeless drives Ramsey to dream of a possible future, but to do something foolish. This kept me up reading late at night. I just had to see what was going to happen next.

[Kimberly Gordon-Bercich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fuzzy

Ever seen a picture just out of focus. The kind that softens the picture and is fuzzy, that it looks like it has a fog or golden glow. That is Ramsey and Nolan. The ending was a bit of a letdown. The king has been on the cusp of death for days. Months! Now he is stage four clinger.

[Haley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun take on the Swan Lake story. To see these characters come back together from different angles and different paths was a fun and interesting. I liked learning more about the story of swan lake as well. I didn't know this fairy tale well.

After getting little nuggets about Ramsey and Nolan in the other books, I was glad to finally read their story.

[Lorin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved reading this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! I had a hard time putting this really wonderful book down! I absolutely loved this retelling of Swan Lake! I am looking forward to reading the next book in this really wonderful series!