The Transformation of Chastity James

Award-winning author Kathleen Morris scores another hit with her latest historical fiction book “The Transformation of Chastity James.” A departure from the usual western novels, a strong female lead adds a new dimension to this adventure story. It's about becoming, discovering who you are, what you are capable of, and ultimately the realization of what's really important to you. Morris's decision to write Chastity's narrative in the first person is an effective mode of storytelling. It helps bring the reader closer to what she is thinking. Chastity undergoes a transformation throughout the story becoming more adept at taking care of herself, willing to uphold her strong convictions no matter what the sacrifice, and finding out the true meaning of love and loyalty.

Chastity James, a recent graduate of Vassar College for Women, has lived a privileged life at Harrowhill, a well-known horse farm near Boston, with her father Leland and uncle Mathias. She is inquisitive and confident but yearns to know more about life outside of her home, Much to the dismay of her father and uncle, she signs up to be a schoolteacher in Dodge City, Kansas. It's 1878 and with high aspirations, she feels she can do this. She is determined to show her students there is a bigger world than one they can see within the four schoolroom walls.

Undaunted by some rude and crude members of the community who disapprove of her new ideas and methods she finds joy in her work. She is forced to defend herself after a violent confrontation with an unwanted persistent suitor who assaults her, leaving her an accused criminal. Chastity escapes quickly from Dodge City. While on the run with the law in hot pursuit, she rescues an injured young outlaw, the mysterious Beauregard Durant. Together Chasity and Beau partner up, while trying to outwit the Ridley gang and the relentless deputy Wyatt Earp. A chance meeting with Julius DeMonte's Traveling Medicine Show provides them with an unexpected ally.

One of Morris's strengths as a writer is being able to create interesting and well-developed characters that keep readers engaged. Some characters from Morris's previous books briefly reprise their roles such as Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and Kate Haroney adding a sense of familiarity and authenticity to the time period. The emergence of Julius DeMonte's character from Morris's “ Wind at Her Back” book proves to be a pivotal point in the story. He steps in as Beau and Chastity's benefactor.

Morris's attention to historical detail helps her recreate the time period in Dodge City, Topeka, and Chicago circa 1878. Her descriptive writing adds elements of realism to the story with the feel of everyday life. The story is well-paced keeping the action moving along. Clearly, Morris has another winner to share with her readers. Chastity, shrouded in an aura of mystery as to who she is and what she can do was just the perfect book cover choice. 

“Life Takes Many Turns”

Julius DeMonte

Kathleen Morris is a graduate of Prescott College in Arizona and lives and writes in the desert Southwest, an aficionado of American and Western history. She loves being able to immerse herself in the lives of her characters, especially bringing to life the charismatic and capable women of the West, both real and imaginary. She is a member of Western Writers of America and Women Writing the West.

Learn more about the author and her books at https://kathleenmorrisauthor.com/