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

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.

Great book, A Love Transformed is a powerful story that you will enjoy.