It was ok. I probably won't reread again.

2.5 Stars

Content: attempted murder, abusive marriage, abusive father, beating, suicide ( )

Has nothing to do with book 1 of the series
Girl and her father make a secret trip from Germany to Montana to buy sapphires. More secrets are revealed. ( )

Tracie Peterson has long been one of my favorite authors, so it was a pleasure to read A Beauty Refined. And since I lived in Montana for a couple decades, it was easy for me to picture Helena in my mind. I enjoy historical fiction. If you do, too, you will enjoy this early-1900's era story.

This story deals with some tough topics, such as deceitfulness, domestic abuse, a dysfunctional family, and some violence, so be aware in case these might be emotional triggers.

I’ve strayed from reading these Christian fiction books for the most part since they tend to follow a similar plot and I’m atheist but this one intrigued me because it takes place in Montana and it’s got a subplot about sapphires. I’m a sucker for sparkly things and my home state so I thought I’d wade back in. I can’t say I’ll be reading them on a regular basis but this one was diverting enough to keep me entertained for an afternoon.

Phoebe van Bergen is visiting Montana with her father to explore Yogo sapphire mining for future investment – or so Phoebe things. He father is a man who expects a certain level of obedience from his daughter and since he is a nobleman feels himself better than those around him.

While in Montana Phoebe meets Ian Harper a very righteous (nauseatingly so) young man who has been hurt in the past and has sworn off of falling in love but the heart wants what the heart wants and he finds himself growing closer to Pheobe as he discovers that her father is not all he seems to be. Is it up to him to direct her to the truth?

The book flowed quickly with a traditional plot albeit with a couple of twists and turns that were unexpected. Phoebe and Ian are likable characters who keep the reader wanting to follow their relationship. The good guys are all good and the bad guys are very bad. What I like about a book like this is that it is easy to read with very little thought required. It provides a great escape for an afternoon. The over-proselytizing I just skim through. For those that are Christian I am sure those passages are comforting. ( )

A Beauty Refined by Tracie Peterson is the second book in the Sapphire Brides series. While this book is part of a series, it definitely can be read as a stand alone book.

I've enjoyed Ms. Peterson's books in the past and found she has a fantastic writing style, great character portrayals and plots that are engaging, creative and a joy to read. In A Beauty Refined, all of the above was included and I was impressed with the nice touch of mystery and suspense that added a wonderful addition to this story. If you love historical, faith based romances ... this book (and series) are for you!

Thank you to Bethany House Publishers, Revell and Netgalley for the wonderful gift of this book to read and review. ( )