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Sapphire Brides #3
A Love Transformed
The Riveting Final Story in the Sapphire Brides Series
When Clara Vesper's husband, Adolph, dies suddenly, Clara is stunned--but not grief-stricken. Her marriage to Adolph had been arranged, their primary interaction revolving around the sapphire jewelry Clara designed and Adolph produced and sold. Widowed and penniless, with two small children, Clara decides to return to her aunt and uncle's ranch in Montana, the only place she has ever been happy.
Curtis Billingham, injured in a sapphire mine collapse, is recuperating at the ranch of his friends, Paul and Madeline Sersland. But when the Serslands' niece returns from New York City, Curtis curses both his broken body and his broken past. Clara, the love of his life, has come back to him, but he is no longer worthy of her love.
Clara's brother-in-law Otto Vesper, Adolph's business partner, fears that the loss of Clara's design skills will doom the company's prospects. Following her to Montana, Otto is prepared to do whatever it takes to get Clara to return with him to New York.
As Clara fights for love and freedom, a dangerous secret in her late husband's life comes to light, threatening everyone she loves.
When Clara Vesper's husband, Adolph, dies suddenly, Clara is stunned--but not grief-stricken. Her marriage to Adolph had been arranged, their primary interaction revolving around the sapphire jewelry Clara designed and Adolph produced and sold. Widowed and penniless, with two small children, Clara decides to return to her aunt and uncle's ranch in Montana, the only place she has ever been happy.
Curtis Billingham, injured in a sapphire mine collapse, is recuperating at the ranch of his friends, Paul and Madeline Sersland. But when the Serslands' niece returns from New York City, Curtis curses both his broken body and his broken past. Clara, the love of his life, has come back to him, but he is no longer worthy of her love.
Clara's brother-in-law Otto Vesper, Adolph's business partner, fears that the loss of Clara's design skills will doom the company's prospects. Following her to Montana, Otto is prepared to do whatever it takes to get Clara to return with him to New York.
As Clara fights for love and freedom, a dangerous secret in her late husband's life comes to light, threatening everyone she loves.
334 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2016
135 people are currently reading
1203 people want to read
About the author
Tracie Peterson
249 books3,118 followersTracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.
pen name: Janelle Jamison
pen name: Janelle Jamison
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
October 1, 2016
A Tracie Peterson book is usually one I anticipate reading because she has been an author whose works are dependably interesting, well researched, clean reads filled with wonderful characters and descriptive writing.
A Love Transformed was somewhat of a disappointment to me as a reader. I found the story line and characters (at least some of them) tending toward the worn-out melodramatic wild-west villainous folks that peopled "B" movies of the past.
Little Hunter and Maddy were adorable kiddies who brightened the lagging story in places. The older couple, Madeline and Paul, were precious and lent depth of character.
I found the devious, contriving, dramatic antics of Clara's mother and Clara's brother-in-law stilted. Also, the posturing of the German spies who were engaged in treasonous activities with the brother-in-law was stilted.
The ideas behind the story were basically good and I could have enjoyed it immensely. I hope that my feelings about the short comings of this book by such an accomplished author are simply mine, alone, and that perhaps my interest just didn't "gel" with the story. Perhaps that is the case.
I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House to facilitate this review of my own opinions.
A Love Transformed was somewhat of a disappointment to me as a reader. I found the story line and characters (at least some of them) tending toward the worn-out melodramatic wild-west villainous folks that peopled "B" movies of the past.
Little Hunter and Maddy were adorable kiddies who brightened the lagging story in places. The older couple, Madeline and Paul, were precious and lent depth of character.
I found the devious, contriving, dramatic antics of Clara's mother and Clara's brother-in-law stilted. Also, the posturing of the German spies who were engaged in treasonous activities with the brother-in-law was stilted.
The ideas behind the story were basically good and I could have enjoyed it immensely. I hope that my feelings about the short comings of this book by such an accomplished author are simply mine, alone, and that perhaps my interest just didn't "gel" with the story. Perhaps that is the case.
I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House to facilitate this review of my own opinions.
October 24, 2016
While this is the final book in the Sapphire Brides series, it can definitely be read as a stand alone. I had high hopes for this book. The other two in the series were entertaining and I thought the cover was beautiful (yes, I know that doesn't mean anything, but I like good looking covers). I was disappointed in this book, and the only thing I can put my finger on to figure out why was that it took me a looooong time to finish it. Even when I got to almost the end I put it down and didn't pick it up for a while. Maybe it's because I never really got behind Clara. She was too...innocent? Naive? Whiny? I'm not sure, but she wasn't my favorite feminine lead. Unfortunately, Curtis wasn't my favorite male lead either. Lot's of angst and drudgery. I actually didn't mind the mother. Don't get me wrong, she's horrible, but at least she's supposed to be :)
All in all, it could very possibly be that I just wasn't in the mood for this book. Maybe if I would have read it at a different time my opinion would have been vastly different. So even with all my complaining I would give it 3 stars for everything else in the story. The jewels and designs, the children, the bad guys, etc.
*I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
All in all, it could very possibly be that I just wasn't in the mood for this book. Maybe if I would have read it at a different time my opinion would have been vastly different. So even with all my complaining I would give it 3 stars for everything else in the story. The jewels and designs, the children, the bad guys, etc.
*I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2016
Series Sapphire Brides, Book #3 "A Love Transformed" by Tracie Peterson
I have not read any in this series but this book and it read great as a stand alone.
Clara is a niave young woman who lets her mother plan her life for her and so she marries Adolph who is older and only marries her for prestege-there is no love between them yet they have a birth of twins and seem to get along with one another. Clara has no idea what happens in his business. She does do designs for him on the jewelry his company sells. He takes the credit and she does the work.
When she learns her husband has been killed ,his twin brother tells her that she will get nothing as her husband gambled it all away-bad deals.
Clara is afraid her Mother will come and force her into another loveless marriage so she packs all their things and travels to Montana to an aunt and uncle that she has stayed with when she was young. She had loved her summers there and wanted her children to see it.
There had been a summer romance and she still loves him, now she is destined to meet Curtis again. Can they find the love they once had and have a future together?
I was given this book by Bethany House to read and review,thank you .
I have not read any in this series but this book and it read great as a stand alone.
Clara is a niave young woman who lets her mother plan her life for her and so she marries Adolph who is older and only marries her for prestege-there is no love between them yet they have a birth of twins and seem to get along with one another. Clara has no idea what happens in his business. She does do designs for him on the jewelry his company sells. He takes the credit and she does the work.
When she learns her husband has been killed ,his twin brother tells her that she will get nothing as her husband gambled it all away-bad deals.
Clara is afraid her Mother will come and force her into another loveless marriage so she packs all their things and travels to Montana to an aunt and uncle that she has stayed with when she was young. She had loved her summers there and wanted her children to see it.
There had been a summer romance and she still loves him, now she is destined to meet Curtis again. Can they find the love they once had and have a future together?
I was given this book by Bethany House to read and review,thank you .
April 1, 2023
Despite a single expletive early on, this was a wonderful book that kept me hooked from beginning to end. I thought the mother of the lead was going to drive me nuts, because she’s one of those overbearing sorts that thinks she can control her grown-up and widowed daughter, but Clara stood up well for herself. That really saved the story for me. I adored how she wasn’t afraid to fight for her kids, even if it meant using a bit of playacting to accomplish that goal. It was interesting having the leading man be injured to the point of being dependent on others for care, but I felt this added a unique twist to the plot. The faith thread was good and solid, and once again the author pointed out that gossip is a sin. I applaud that every time, because it’s such an easy sin to fall into or overlook, but it’s a sin nonetheless. It’s wonderful to see an author who’s consistent on calling out this sin—in a grace-filled way—in several books she’s written. I was sad to see this trilogy come to an end, but I’m sure I’ll find another series by Mrs. Peterson to enjoy before too long.
Content: expletive, alcohol
Content: expletive, alcohol
September 24, 2016
A Love Transformed starts with an interesting premise and the hope that the story will be different than the usual “woman returns home after long absence” archetype. That hope, however, is quickly dashed, as nothing in the book is surprising or inventive. It plays out exactly how you think it might play out, with the woman quickly reuniting with her lost love (with a few predictable setbacks at the beginning), then scrambling to figure a way out of the dangerous secrets that followed her from her former life, then conquering them and riding off with her lost love into the sunset. Yawn.
I thought it would have been much more interesting if Peterson had decided to make Curtis leave for the war rather than conveniently (in terms of the plot) get injured just as Clara returns. That’s literally the only thing Curtis’s injury was used for, as a vehicle to get him to remain behind and angst about how he might not be a “complete man” or whatever, and it was so disappointing to see such an overused trope. The romantic aspect of it wasn’t even that great, either. It was too predictable.
Add the contrived plot involving Otto and the annoying mother to the predictable and boring romance, and A Love Transformed was a struggle to finish. I’m starting to wonder if some of the authors I read are simply not aware of how unoriginal their concepts/plots are, or if this sort of thing legitimately sells and that’s why they keep writing it. Either way, I’m not a fan. Give me something with substance in place of a story told a thousand times already in the same way.
Disclaimer: Book provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
I thought it would have been much more interesting if Peterson had decided to make Curtis leave for the war rather than conveniently (in terms of the plot) get injured just as Clara returns. That’s literally the only thing Curtis’s injury was used for, as a vehicle to get him to remain behind and angst about how he might not be a “complete man” or whatever, and it was so disappointing to see such an overused trope. The romantic aspect of it wasn’t even that great, either. It was too predictable.
Add the contrived plot involving Otto and the annoying mother to the predictable and boring romance, and A Love Transformed was a struggle to finish. I’m starting to wonder if some of the authors I read are simply not aware of how unoriginal their concepts/plots are, or if this sort of thing legitimately sells and that’s why they keep writing it. Either way, I’m not a fan. Give me something with substance in place of a story told a thousand times already in the same way.
Disclaimer: Book provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
February 28, 2020
BORING! The end was clever and the story with her mom was great. Madeline, Paul, Hunter and Maddy were the best characters. Tons of potential.
January 27, 2020
Tracie Peterson really is a talented author, but her character development always comes up lacking. With love stories such as this, an author is most successful when he or she is able to achieve in having their readers love both the main male and female characters. Clara was too weak and too much of a doormat, for my taste, especially where her overbearing, emotionally abusive and toxic mother was concerned.
Clara had no backbone whatsoever. I realize that women had little to no rights back in the early 1900’s, but when her twins were kidnapped by Otto’s hired henchmen, even then she was as helpless as one of her uncle Paul’s newborn lambs. I had to laugh when she mentioned how she would have “great difficulty” in shooting another person, had she been able to get hold of a gun to point at Otto. I would waste not even one second shooting any man or woman in order to protect my children.
Once again, as Tracie had done in the novel prior to this one in this series, she failed to produce a likable love interest for the main female character. Curtis was so bland and boring that I didn’t like him at all. He had absolutely no personality whatsoever. The way he and Clara went back and forth in their anger, annoyance, lying and then finally admitting their true feelings for one another was precisely the way that youth go back and forth during their junior high and high school years. Blek.
I was especially annoyed by the end that was written regarding Clara’s insufferable mother. That woman really got under my skin. I didn’t understand how one character was described with such great detail, yet so many others were not.
Harriet Oberlin deserved to be trampled to death by a horse, run over by a carriage, or shot by her own daughter for her interference, for controlling her life, threatening to tear her children away from her and to throw her into an asylum merely for having the nerve to “defy” her. I don’t care if she is Clara’s mother, that woman got off WAY too easy.
I doubt I’ll ever read more of Tracie’s books in the future. I’m tired of her inadequate descriptions of what good qualities should be found in fictional men.
Clara had no backbone whatsoever. I realize that women had little to no rights back in the early 1900’s, but when her twins were kidnapped by Otto’s hired henchmen, even then she was as helpless as one of her uncle Paul’s newborn lambs. I had to laugh when she mentioned how she would have “great difficulty” in shooting another person, had she been able to get hold of a gun to point at Otto. I would waste not even one second shooting any man or woman in order to protect my children.
Once again, as Tracie had done in the novel prior to this one in this series, she failed to produce a likable love interest for the main female character. Curtis was so bland and boring that I didn’t like him at all. He had absolutely no personality whatsoever. The way he and Clara went back and forth in their anger, annoyance, lying and then finally admitting their true feelings for one another was precisely the way that youth go back and forth during their junior high and high school years. Blek.
I was especially annoyed by the end that was written regarding Clara’s insufferable mother. That woman really got under my skin. I didn’t understand how one character was described with such great detail, yet so many others were not.
Harriet Oberlin deserved to be trampled to death by a horse, run over by a carriage, or shot by her own daughter for her interference, for controlling her life, threatening to tear her children away from her and to throw her into an asylum merely for having the nerve to “defy” her. I don’t care if she is Clara’s mother, that woman got off WAY too easy.
I doubt I’ll ever read more of Tracie’s books in the future. I’m tired of her inadequate descriptions of what good qualities should be found in fictional men.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2016
A Love Transformed by Tracie Peterson is the third book in the Sapphire Brides trilogy but it can be read as a stand-alone. The novel is a Christian historical romance set in 1917, just as America had entered World War I. It is a wonderful read and one that will take up residence in the reader's heart.
The novel deals with espionage, murder and intrigue. It will have you guessing the outcome throughout.
Tracie Peterson always writes cracking stories with God at the heart. Her recipe for life is "Seeking God. Knowing God. Obeying God. Trusting God." She shows how it is important to know not only God but His word. "Her only comfort had been her Bible." At all times we need to seek God's word.
Having faith in God means having a relationship with Him. This includes talking to God. There is no area of our lives where God does not want to be involved. "I need Your divine direction."
Families are important. Clara has delightful four year old twins. They just crawl into the reader's heart. Their happiness is definitely our happiness. Tracie Peterson has delightfully captured their speech and antics.
We all have a past. We have all sinned. We all need forgiveness. These are just some of the topics that the novel explores. In Jesus we are a new creation. Once we know Him, we find that the enemy likes to distract our focus. We need to make sure we listen to the voice of God. "He was a new creation in Christ, but the devil wanted to convince him otherwise, and the devil had a much louder voice."
Tracie Peterson shows how it is all too easy to wallow in our past mistakes. "I can't forgive myself." We must forgive ourselves because God has forgiven all who truly repent. To withhold forgiveness would be raising ourselves above God and hubris is wrong.
A Love Transformed deals with the topic of happiness. For some happiness is tied up in money and possessions. This will always produce temporary highs as one chases the next 'greatest' thing. The love of money is the root of all evil. Money will never buy happiness. "He gave me everything but love." A heart full of God and full of love is the secret to contentment and happiness. "The true love of family and friends had transformed her children from sullen and cautious to joyful."
Mood is improved in the novel as the action travels from the crowded New York City to the open Montana countryside. The presence of God is felt when there are no competing things vying for attention. "She had never felt so close to God as she did here in the wide open country." People mistakenly believe the place to meet God is in church but God can be met anywhere and everywhere.
There is a searching to belong and be loved. "She was lonely... in a house full of people." We can often feel loneliest in a crowd.
A home cannot be bought. Tracie Peterson shows home is where we feel safe, secure and loved. "My mother would say I've run away but I believe I've come home." The pull of the place where we felt loved is irresistible.
I have absolutely loved this Sapphire Brides trilogy. I love everything that Tracie Peterson writes. I am looking forward to whatever she writes next!
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
The novel deals with espionage, murder and intrigue. It will have you guessing the outcome throughout.
Tracie Peterson always writes cracking stories with God at the heart. Her recipe for life is "Seeking God. Knowing God. Obeying God. Trusting God." She shows how it is important to know not only God but His word. "Her only comfort had been her Bible." At all times we need to seek God's word.
Having faith in God means having a relationship with Him. This includes talking to God. There is no area of our lives where God does not want to be involved. "I need Your divine direction."
Families are important. Clara has delightful four year old twins. They just crawl into the reader's heart. Their happiness is definitely our happiness. Tracie Peterson has delightfully captured their speech and antics.
We all have a past. We have all sinned. We all need forgiveness. These are just some of the topics that the novel explores. In Jesus we are a new creation. Once we know Him, we find that the enemy likes to distract our focus. We need to make sure we listen to the voice of God. "He was a new creation in Christ, but the devil wanted to convince him otherwise, and the devil had a much louder voice."
Tracie Peterson shows how it is all too easy to wallow in our past mistakes. "I can't forgive myself." We must forgive ourselves because God has forgiven all who truly repent. To withhold forgiveness would be raising ourselves above God and hubris is wrong.
A Love Transformed deals with the topic of happiness. For some happiness is tied up in money and possessions. This will always produce temporary highs as one chases the next 'greatest' thing. The love of money is the root of all evil. Money will never buy happiness. "He gave me everything but love." A heart full of God and full of love is the secret to contentment and happiness. "The true love of family and friends had transformed her children from sullen and cautious to joyful."
Mood is improved in the novel as the action travels from the crowded New York City to the open Montana countryside. The presence of God is felt when there are no competing things vying for attention. "She had never felt so close to God as she did here in the wide open country." People mistakenly believe the place to meet God is in church but God can be met anywhere and everywhere.
There is a searching to belong and be loved. "She was lonely... in a house full of people." We can often feel loneliest in a crowd.
A home cannot be bought. Tracie Peterson shows home is where we feel safe, secure and loved. "My mother would say I've run away but I believe I've come home." The pull of the place where we felt loved is irresistible.
I have absolutely loved this Sapphire Brides trilogy. I love everything that Tracie Peterson writes. I am looking forward to whatever she writes next!
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
September 8, 2016
Peterson's novels have always captivated me and A Love Transformed is no exception. Clara is a spunky character who seems to fit in where ever she goes, while Curtis fears his past bad choices could damage her reputation. The plot is intriguing, inventive, and looks at a unique time in history rarely discussed. While the romance was wonderful, I must mention how perfectly the villain of the story keeps you on your toes to the very end. A Love Transformed is the final novel in the Sapphire Brides series, all the novels are worth reading but they aren't connected so this one could easily be a stand alone novel.
I was given this book free from Bethany House Publishing fro my honest review.
I was given this book free from Bethany House Publishing fro my honest review.
October 20, 2016
Classic Peterson. I love the way she ties redemption into her novels. This is a faith-filled story that promises hope...if only the threat from Clara's past will leave them all alone. Great character dynamics -- a redemptive hero who can't quite believe his worth and the woman he can't resist loving. Insert blissful romantical sigh here. There's plenty of twists and turns, a sinister pursuit and two adorable (and very earnest) preschoolers to keep everyone in line. Will leave you breathless by the end.
November 26, 2016
Suspense, intrigue, romance, and faith run throughout A Love Transformed. Clara Vesper's life dramatically changes as her husband's sudden death leaves her in dire circumstances. She longs to find her own way for once. Her mother and brother-in-law have their own ideas about her future. How will happen to Clara and her children as she learns to trust in God?
I underlined many powerful messages for my own life. The author adds discussion questions at the conclusion of the book.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley, the publisher, and author for my honest review which I have given.
I underlined many powerful messages for my own life. The author adds discussion questions at the conclusion of the book.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley, the publisher, and author for my honest review which I have given.
November 21, 2017
This has been a hard week of reading for me. But reading this book was a highlight. I loved Clara's character. She was so original seeming, loving, with a little bit of feisty thrown in. I think this was probably my favorite in the trilogy, the story line really held my attention. Going back to Montana to find her one true love -- ate it up. Although her mother and brother-in-law were deplorable. Thoroughly enjoyed this one. Can't wait to begin the next Tracie Peterson book.
August 29, 2016
I don't know why I keep trying... loses my interest a few chapters in. Ugh.
January 5, 2018
A Love Transformed takes a different route with the Yogo Sapphires than the other books. It is the least connected with the sapphires of the three books. Clara designs jewelry specifically for Yogo sapphires, but this is a small part of the novel in comparison to the other themes. A Love Transformed also takes a different and much more direct route with the romantic story than any book I have read recently. There are no guarded feelings or hidden agendas. The feelings are very clearly announced or intentions quickly stated. Clara does nothing to hide her feelings, and even though Curtis is in denial, he still directly asserts what he believes to be the best route for their relationship. This is a refreshing and interesting twist when most novels deal with both parties being very unsure of the other's affections until the very end. The overbearing mother and meddling brother-in-law are also dramatic and intriguing storylines. They are both crafted as just mean and crazy enough to make their threats truly menacing. The German espionage was also an exciting aspect of the story. I loved the history and culture of the time reflected in these plot points. The ending was exciting, and I liked how the characters were clever enough to work together to outsmart the bad guys. A minor note is that in order to have twins the mother needs to have twins in her family and it doesn't matter if it is on the father's side. As someone who just gave birth to her second child, my doctor explained this to me during my recent pregnancy, so the reference to Maddy and Hunter being twins because their father was a twin wasn't a plausible storyline. Nothing detrimental to the story as a whole, but this fact was stated at least twice and both times the response in my head to reading these statements was "nope, not how that works." Other than that, this was a beautiful story about faith, family, love, and the treasure of a simple life.
September 22, 2020
Peterson brings a story of love in the backdrop of World War I. Forced by her overbearing (and I feel like I should write that OVERBEARING) mother to marry for money and prestige instead of love, Clara Vesper is finally free when her husband is murdered. She wants nothing more than to return to her aunt's ranch in Montana, and marry the man she has been in love with all along. When her mother returns to the city intent on finding her another "advantageous" marriage, Clara takes her twins and their nanny, and runs to the only haven she's ever known.
Curtis Billingham lost the love of his life and turned to drink to drown his sorrow. Fourteen years of mistakes have left him unfit for any decent woman, but Clara's aunt and uncle never gave up on him. Finally back on the straight and narrow, he is nearly killed in a mine collapse. Stuck in a body cast, he is horrified when Clara stumbles into his room. Even more beautiful than when she left, Clara makes it clear that she returned to marry him. How can he make her see that their marriage would be all wrong for her, when all he wants is to be hers?
I enjoyed Clara's part of this story, especially. She is a jewelry designer in a time where women were to remain at home, only coming out for teas, or parties. Her designs are known throughout New York as some of the most beautiful and are in high demand among the wealthy. I also loved how she stood up to her mother's demands. That woman would have "made me lose my religion!"
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with a good dose of romance, will enjoy A Love Transformed. If you're also a Tracie Peterson fan, this one will not disappoint!
I listened to this one on my Libby app and was slightly disappointed in the narrator. Since her voice never changed, I had trouble distinguishing who was talking in the story at times.
Curtis Billingham lost the love of his life and turned to drink to drown his sorrow. Fourteen years of mistakes have left him unfit for any decent woman, but Clara's aunt and uncle never gave up on him. Finally back on the straight and narrow, he is nearly killed in a mine collapse. Stuck in a body cast, he is horrified when Clara stumbles into his room. Even more beautiful than when she left, Clara makes it clear that she returned to marry him. How can he make her see that their marriage would be all wrong for her, when all he wants is to be hers?
I enjoyed Clara's part of this story, especially. She is a jewelry designer in a time where women were to remain at home, only coming out for teas, or parties. Her designs are known throughout New York as some of the most beautiful and are in high demand among the wealthy. I also loved how she stood up to her mother's demands. That woman would have "made me lose my religion!"
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with a good dose of romance, will enjoy A Love Transformed. If you're also a Tracie Peterson fan, this one will not disappoint!
I listened to this one on my Libby app and was slightly disappointed in the narrator. Since her voice never changed, I had trouble distinguishing who was talking in the story at times.
October 22, 2017
A Love Transformed is the third book in the Sapphire Brides series written by Traci Peterson. I personally have loved the series so far, and love each story. The characters really seem to jump out of the book and almost become real with the writing style of Traci Peterson. The stories are written well, and will keep you turning the pages until the end.
In A Love Transformed, Clara Vesper learns her husband is murdered. Though the marriage wasn't that of love, she had cared for him and had depended upon him. She makes the decision to take her family to Montana to her Aunt and Uncles ranch where she can figure out what she will do next.
Curtis Billingham was injured in a mine accident, and recovering at his friend's ranch, Paul and Madeline Sersland. But their niece, Clara, returns to the ranch and old memories surface. Feeling unworthy of the love of the only woman he has ever loved, he tries to ignore the feelings he has for her.
This book is filled with love, forgiveness, secrets, and intrigue! If you are looking for a page turner, this is it. I really enjoyed this book and finished it so quickly I could hardly believe it was over. The characters and storyline were well thought out and well rounded, creating a beautiful book that will take you back in time to a ranch in Montana.
In A Love Transformed, Clara Vesper learns her husband is murdered. Though the marriage wasn't that of love, she had cared for him and had depended upon him. She makes the decision to take her family to Montana to her Aunt and Uncles ranch where she can figure out what she will do next.
Curtis Billingham was injured in a mine accident, and recovering at his friend's ranch, Paul and Madeline Sersland. But their niece, Clara, returns to the ranch and old memories surface. Feeling unworthy of the love of the only woman he has ever loved, he tries to ignore the feelings he has for her.
This book is filled with love, forgiveness, secrets, and intrigue! If you are looking for a page turner, this is it. I really enjoyed this book and finished it so quickly I could hardly believe it was over. The characters and storyline were well thought out and well rounded, creating a beautiful book that will take you back in time to a ranch in Montana.
August 23, 2017
When Clara Vesper's husband, Adolph, dies suddenly, Clara is stunned--but not grief-stricken. Her marriage to Adolph had been arranged, their primary interaction revolving around the sapphire jewelry Clara designed and Adolph produced and sold. Widowed and penniless, with two small children, Clara decides to return to her aunt and uncle's ranch in Montana, the only place she has ever been happy.
Curtis Billingham, injured in a sapphire mine collapse, is recuperating at the ranch of his friends, Paul and Madeline Sersland. But when the Serslands' niece returns from New York City, Curtis curses both his broken body and his broken past. Clara, the love of his life, has come back to him, but he is no longer worthy of her love.
Clara's brother-in-law Otto Vesper, Adolph's business partner, fears that the loss of Clara's design skills will doom the company's prospects. Following her to Montana, Otto is prepared to do whatever it takes to get Clara to return with him to New York.
As Clara fights for love and freedom, a dangerous secret in her late husband's life comes to light, threatening everyone she loves.
Tracie Peterson literality uses Bible statements applied to their lives. A very good reminder!!!!
Curtis Billingham, injured in a sapphire mine collapse, is recuperating at the ranch of his friends, Paul and Madeline Sersland. But when the Serslands' niece returns from New York City, Curtis curses both his broken body and his broken past. Clara, the love of his life, has come back to him, but he is no longer worthy of her love.
Clara's brother-in-law Otto Vesper, Adolph's business partner, fears that the loss of Clara's design skills will doom the company's prospects. Following her to Montana, Otto is prepared to do whatever it takes to get Clara to return with him to New York.
As Clara fights for love and freedom, a dangerous secret in her late husband's life comes to light, threatening everyone she loves.
Tracie Peterson literality uses Bible statements applied to their lives. A very good reminder!!!!
October 23, 2017
Returning 'home' isn't always easy...
'Montana' and 'sapphires' were the only two words I needed to see to know that I wanted to read A Love Transformed and the rest of the Sapphire Brides series. Of course, it really didn't hurt that it was written by one of the Christian fiction authors that I've read the longest, Tracie Peterson. I will confess that I haven't read the first two books yet, I have them on my shelf, but I was told that they could be read standalone which, I think, will prove to be true.
Thanks to the talents of author Tracie Peterson, A Love Transformed is both a sweet historical romance and a bit suspenseful. The diabolically clandestine affairs, related to WWI, that endanger our heroine and her children added some lovely tension to the storyline.
Fans of Tracie Peterson are in for a treat as she returns her writing to Montana, the state she herself resides in. A Love Transformed was a good finish to the Sapphire Brides series and I am looking forward to going back and reading the first two.
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
'Montana' and 'sapphires' were the only two words I needed to see to know that I wanted to read A Love Transformed and the rest of the Sapphire Brides series. Of course, it really didn't hurt that it was written by one of the Christian fiction authors that I've read the longest, Tracie Peterson. I will confess that I haven't read the first two books yet, I have them on my shelf, but I was told that they could be read standalone which, I think, will prove to be true.
Thanks to the talents of author Tracie Peterson, A Love Transformed is both a sweet historical romance and a bit suspenseful. The diabolically clandestine affairs, related to WWI, that endanger our heroine and her children added some lovely tension to the storyline.
Fans of Tracie Peterson are in for a treat as she returns her writing to Montana, the state she herself resides in. A Love Transformed was a good finish to the Sapphire Brides series and I am looking forward to going back and reading the first two.
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
June 5, 2017
A Love Transformed is a wonderful book by author Tracie Peterson. Clara Vesper was forced to marry Adolph Vesper by her overbearing mother only to become a widow with twin children to raise. She finds she is left penniless and her brother-in-law offers to marry her and provide her and her children with a home and security. But Clara has only on thing in mind. To return to her aunt and uncle's sheep ranch in Montana where she found love, acceptance, and happiness.
Curtis Billingham lost the love of his life fourteen years ago when Clara left the ranch to marry a man of her mother's choosing. After being injured in a mine cave-in, he has to rely on Madeline and Paul Sersland, Clara's aunt and uncle, to care for him. Things really heat up when Clara returns to the ranch along with her children, Hunter and Maddy.
Will Clara be able to forgive Curtis of is past sins after she left, or will those sins cost Curtis the love of his life again? Read for yourself to find out. Tracie never disappoints when she creates her characters. Enjoy!
Curtis Billingham lost the love of his life fourteen years ago when Clara left the ranch to marry a man of her mother's choosing. After being injured in a mine cave-in, he has to rely on Madeline and Paul Sersland, Clara's aunt and uncle, to care for him. Things really heat up when Clara returns to the ranch along with her children, Hunter and Maddy.
Will Clara be able to forgive Curtis of is past sins after she left, or will those sins cost Curtis the love of his life again? Read for yourself to find out. Tracie never disappoints when she creates her characters. Enjoy!
November 30, 2016
Tracy is an accomplished talented author but sadly I found this novel very formula driven and flat. The cover is nice but the characters and plot were so cliche that I found myself not caring about anyone or anything.
There was so much historic potential in the time and places chosen for this story and I so wanted this book to work. I love the era, and the locale but when there is no intrigue to the story line nor vibrancy in the characters the story doesn't hold my interest. I need to care about characters and want them to be "saved" to read Christian novels.
I must have picked this book up 20 times trying to get through it, forcing myself over and over to finish it. Not a good sign.
There was so much historic potential in the time and places chosen for this story and I so wanted this book to work. I love the era, and the locale but when there is no intrigue to the story line nor vibrancy in the characters the story doesn't hold my interest. I need to care about characters and want them to be "saved" to read Christian novels.
I must have picked this book up 20 times trying to get through it, forcing myself over and over to finish it. Not a good sign.
June 13, 2025
Clara and her story is surrounded by intrigue. She is in a loveless marriage. She is as unknow designer of a jewelry line for which both her husband and brother-in-law claims as theirs. Her husband is murdered. She moves back to Montana with her twin children where her true love, Curtis, is once again found. The story included espionage (during WWII), mine cave in and injury, kidnapping and a happy ending. Loved it.
December 4, 2018
A great finish to the series! The story and characters kept your interest. My favorite part of course with the children and although the mother little bit of my own mom in some ways but thank God not most! Interesting espionage aspect to the story. I have to say I didn’t see that one coming. As always, Tracie Peterson really did a great job.
December 13, 2016
Latest in the Sapphire series. Clara and her children return to her roots in Montana after the death of her husband. Her brother in law follows her to threaten her if she refuses to marry him. Great historical novel.
February 7, 2017
I didn't care for this book. I found the characters lacking any real sympathetic qualities, and I didn't find anything resembling chemistry between them. I think it may have just been the story here, so I plan to still try the author's other books.
November 22, 2017
WOW! I loved this story. Amidst the danger and secrecy is an unshakeable faith in the Lord. I enjoyed watching these characters grow in their relationship with the Lord and each other. This is a fabulous series!
February 17, 2018
A wonderful Christian novel about the true meaning of love -- marital love, parent/child love, familial love and love of God. No profanity, no sex. It shows people with significant challenges and the struggle to handle them in a Godly manner.
February 15, 2019
Christian Romance
This was a Christian Romance that keep you wondering if and when right would prevail, but in the end good wore out over a controlling loveless mother and nasty villains. It was a plot that kept you guessing
This was a Christian Romance that keep you wondering if and when right would prevail, but in the end good wore out over a controlling loveless mother and nasty villains. It was a plot that kept you guessing
November 13, 2018
I have a new favorite author!
Tracie Peterson's writing is great--I have just finished the Sapphire Brides series. Her stories are laced with Biblical truths, and she puts unexpected twists in her stories, keeping the reader on the edge of her seat!
Tracie Peterson's writing is great--I have just finished the Sapphire Brides series. Her stories are laced with Biblical truths, and she puts unexpected twists in her stories, keeping the reader on the edge of her seat!
March 8, 2019
What a testimony to trusting God to provide your heart’s desire even through what seems impossible odds. I love the way Tracie Peterson envelops historical events and various lifestyles across the country during the time period of the story.
July 18, 2019
You will enjoy this story of Clara who marries the man her mother choses for her even though she is in love with Justin. Fifteen years later her husband dies and her mother again tries to force her into a marriage. Clara's aunt and uncle in Montana are wonderful secondary characters in this book.
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