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Texas Gold #1
A Woman of Fortune
You never know what you’re really made of until you lose everything.
Texas socialite Claire Massey is living the dream—designer clothes, luxury cars, stunning homes. But everything comes crashing down when her charming cattle broker husband is arrested for fraud. Suddenly she finds herself facing attorneys, a media frenzy, and a trail of broken hearts. Betrayed and humiliated, Claire must maneuver incredible odds to save her family—and discover a life worth living.
Author Kellie Coates Gilbert delivers a story both poignant and emotionally gripping that celebrates the kind of fortune that lasts.
Texas socialite Claire Massey is living the dream—designer clothes, luxury cars, stunning homes. But everything comes crashing down when her charming cattle broker husband is arrested for fraud. Suddenly she finds herself facing attorneys, a media frenzy, and a trail of broken hearts. Betrayed and humiliated, Claire must maneuver incredible odds to save her family—and discover a life worth living.
Author Kellie Coates Gilbert delivers a story both poignant and emotionally gripping that celebrates the kind of fortune that lasts.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2014
1942 people are currently reading
1966 people want to read
About the author
Kellie Coates Gilbert
50 books331 followers⭐️ USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR ⭐️
Kellie Coates Gilbert has won readers’ hearts with her compelling and highly emotional stories about women and the relationships that define their lives. A former legal investigator, she is especially known for keeping readers turning pages and for creating nuanced characters who seem real.
In addition to garnering hundreds of five-star reviews, Kellie has been described by RT Book Reviews as a “deft, crisp storyteller.” Her books were featured as Barnes & Noble Top Shelf Picks and were awarded a coveted spot on the Library Journal’s Best Book List.
Born and raised near Sun Valley, Idaho, Kellie now lives with her husband of over thirty-five years in Dallas, where she spends most days by her pool drinking sweet tea and writing the stories of her heart.
Kellie Coates Gilbert has won readers’ hearts with her compelling and highly emotional stories about women and the relationships that define their lives. A former legal investigator, she is especially known for keeping readers turning pages and for creating nuanced characters who seem real.
In addition to garnering hundreds of five-star reviews, Kellie has been described by RT Book Reviews as a “deft, crisp storyteller.” Her books were featured as Barnes & Noble Top Shelf Picks and were awarded a coveted spot on the Library Journal’s Best Book List.
Born and raised near Sun Valley, Idaho, Kellie now lives with her husband of over thirty-five years in Dallas, where she spends most days by her pool drinking sweet tea and writing the stories of her heart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews
March 3, 2017
I didn't finish this book but I will go ahead and leave my review at three stars because the author had a lot of talent. I like the characters and she did a great job of weaving the story, however, I could only take so much of this.
Oh my goodness, is this how the author views Texas? Nobody drinking anything other than sweet tea and Dr. Pepper? Comparing a bad day to "I felt like and Armadillo hit by a Ford Truck"? Reminding me every other paragraph that so-and-so was raised in Texas? Everyone saying "That just isn't done in Texas"?
Yes, we in Texas do have a culture and pride are all our own but this was ridiculous.
On top of that, the story kept being interrupted to give be back story.
Again, that author did a great job with her characters and making life seem real. Some people might blush a bit at the marital affection and other struggles that some of the characters had, but I thought the realism was the best part of the book and why I kept reading for so long.
Oh my goodness, is this how the author views Texas? Nobody drinking anything other than sweet tea and Dr. Pepper? Comparing a bad day to "I felt like and Armadillo hit by a Ford Truck"? Reminding me every other paragraph that so-and-so was raised in Texas? Everyone saying "That just isn't done in Texas"?
Yes, we in Texas do have a culture and pride are all our own but this was ridiculous.
On top of that, the story kept being interrupted to give be back story.
Again, that author did a great job with her characters and making life seem real. Some people might blush a bit at the marital affection and other struggles that some of the characters had, but I thought the realism was the best part of the book and why I kept reading for so long.
June 8, 2014
A Woman of Fortune is a book I was drawn to by the cover alone (it's so gorgeous!) and I decided to read it because the story also sounded interesting. Unfortunately, it wasn't for me and I didn't like it.
I disliked the characters. There were glimpses where they were likeable, but for the most part I couldn't relate to them and didn't like how spoiled/selfish some seemed. I also didn't like the whole situation involving Brian - I really disliked most of his actions because of the context (which I won't say, to avoid spoilers).
Surprisingly, I think my favorite character was Tuck. I loved his constant love for Claire and how he was remorseful for his actions. Another thing I liked about the story was what Claire decided to do regarding the future.
In the end, A Woman of Fortune was a book I didn't really care for. I had a hard time finishing it, even though the story moved quickly, because it didn't interest me anymore. I will say, though, the last couple chapters were much more engaging to me than the previous ones.
I'll end by saying this: please don't take my opinion alone on this book. There are several reviewers that loved A Woman of Fortune (it seems like I'm the only one who didn't like it) and maybe it just wasn't a read for me. If you are a fan of books with politics, scandal, and family issues, you might enjoy it. I truly wanted to love this book and I'm sorry I didn't.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
[1.5 stars]
I disliked the characters. There were glimpses where they were likeable, but for the most part I couldn't relate to them and didn't like how spoiled/selfish some seemed. I also didn't like the whole situation involving Brian - I really disliked most of his actions because of the context (which I won't say, to avoid spoilers).
Surprisingly, I think my favorite character was Tuck. I loved his constant love for Claire and how he was remorseful for his actions. Another thing I liked about the story was what Claire decided to do regarding the future.
In the end, A Woman of Fortune was a book I didn't really care for. I had a hard time finishing it, even though the story moved quickly, because it didn't interest me anymore. I will say, though, the last couple chapters were much more engaging to me than the previous ones.
I'll end by saying this: please don't take my opinion alone on this book. There are several reviewers that loved A Woman of Fortune (it seems like I'm the only one who didn't like it) and maybe it just wasn't a read for me. If you are a fan of books with politics, scandal, and family issues, you might enjoy it. I truly wanted to love this book and I'm sorry I didn't.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
[1.5 stars]
January 2, 2018
I really loved this book so much! It takes extreme talent to take these characters and make them sympathetic but that's exactly what this author did. I don't believe in gray when it comes to morality. It's right or wrong, black or white. So the fact I felt sorry for these damaged and even criminal (Tuck) characters says much about the writing.
I'm so glad for the epilogue which made me happy. I really wish there was a sequel!
I'm so glad for the epilogue which made me happy. I really wish there was a sequel!
December 6, 2013
Kellie Coates Gilbert’s background as a legal investigator sets a Woman of Fortune apart. Countless times throughout this harrowing story, I found myself not only engrossed in the plot and characters, but in the detail given to the Massey family’s tumble from fortune and subsequent rise to the true meaning of life and love. The heroine, Claire Massey’s decision to embrace forgiveness after such an intense betrayal will resonate with readers from every walk of life.
April 29, 2015
Well done! I very much enjoyed Claire's story. Her character development was delightful to watch as she went from fortunes and seemingly having it all to losing her fortune and having her husband in prison. Claire's three children also added a great deal to the story. I especially enjoyed Max.
The actual events that inspired this novel and how the author added some adjustments were interesting to read.
A satisfying contemporary romance novel. I highly recommend it!
The actual events that inspired this novel and how the author added some adjustments were interesting to read.
A satisfying contemporary romance novel. I highly recommend it!
October 2, 2014
I honestly didn't know if I'd have time to read this book, but the cover drew me. I LOVE that red dress. Then the characters and their problems sucked me in. In an author note, Kellie writes about what inspired the book. Essentially it was thinking about the families of men who engage in huge fraud cases. What would it be like to have everything ripped away from you? To learn that your entire life was built on fraud?
That's exactly the position that Claire Massey and her kids find themselves facing. They each respond in different ways, and the book reads like a slice of real life as Claire has to confront what has happened, and how she will ever piece her life back together. Everything from finding an apartment to locating a job is a challenge. But that's not what kept me turning the pages and thinking about the book when I couldn't read. What kept me glued to the story was the thought, What would I do? How would I respond?
This book was a rare treat in women's fiction. While I don't usually read women's fiction, this one is going on my keeper file, and I can't wait for the next book in the series!
That's exactly the position that Claire Massey and her kids find themselves facing. They each respond in different ways, and the book reads like a slice of real life as Claire has to confront what has happened, and how she will ever piece her life back together. Everything from finding an apartment to locating a job is a challenge. But that's not what kept me turning the pages and thinking about the book when I couldn't read. What kept me glued to the story was the thought, What would I do? How would I respond?
This book was a rare treat in women's fiction. While I don't usually read women's fiction, this one is going on my keeper file, and I can't wait for the next book in the series!
June 2, 2015
Actually, 3.5 stars. I don't normally read Christian Fiction, but the synopsis of the story was intriguing, so I thought I'd give it a shot. This was a pretty good book! The cover is beautiful. I look forward to continuing the series.
June 26, 2014
This book has it all: love, betrayal, redemption. While the book focuses on all of the family members, I think the primary focus is on Claire which is what I would probably expect. She has been through a lot and it shows that when push comes to shove, women can overcome any obstacle facing them.
This book is very well written and I felt a variety of emotions which is what a good book will do. I like that the book is tied up in the end and nothing is left hanging. The book was also very well researched which is key especially when someone lives in that area.
This book is very well written and I felt a variety of emotions which is what a good book will do. I like that the book is tied up in the end and nothing is left hanging. The book was also very well researched which is key especially when someone lives in that area.
October 12, 2017
Really great characters. Loved this book and the Texas setting.
June 21, 2022
Delightful!
This novel is truly delightful despite the sorrow that is brought on by the careless business ventures of the main male character who is imprisoned because of his dishonesty. His wife has to forge ahead regardless of the drastic lifestyle change she has to face. It is well- written and an inspiration to its readers.
This novel is truly delightful despite the sorrow that is brought on by the careless business ventures of the main male character who is imprisoned because of his dishonesty. His wife has to forge ahead regardless of the drastic lifestyle change she has to face. It is well- written and an inspiration to its readers.
June 1, 2014
"Any woman can slip into a remarkable dress, Claire. A woman of fortune makes sure her shoes perfectly compliment her outfit. Always look at a woman's shoes." ~Claire's Mother
Claire Massey lived every woman's dream. She had a husband that still loved her completely. Three grownup children she adored. Legacy Ranch, her home that spanned acres. A highly successful business. A life that put her square in the middle of the most elite circle in Texas. She was a Woman of Fortune--until the day her world crumbled around her. The day they arrested her husband, Tuck, for cattle fraud was the day her life changed forever. Now she is left with nothing but the bare minimum and Claire has never felt so alone. But when she is forced to fight for survival and to hold her family together she is amazed at how well she can stand on her own.
"Claire, I love you so much I can't breathe." ~Tuck
I must say I am often skeptical about fresh, new authors. But, every now and then I come across a novel by a new author that's a real gem. A Woman of Fortune is definitely a gem. Once I started reading it I thought of all of those times I watched tourists pan for gold under those small, rundown shelters where you pay to pan and pray you find just one tiny nugget. This book is the gold nugget amid all those rocks. One thing that really stood out to me was the love between Claire and Tuck. It came through so vividly that there was no way you could question the authenticity of it. It affected me emotionally as a reader when Claire finally decided to put her life back together and move on. Every romance novel deals with love, that's why their called romance novels. But, no matter how well written, you never forget you're reading fiction. Well, I did. I felt like I was smack in the middle of Claire Massey's life and it was a fascinating place to be.
"Not that my advice is going to work for that poor gal. You could park a car in the shadow of her behind, know what I mean? Jana Rae laughed, then added, "'Course that man she's after fell down the ugly tree and hit every branch of the way down--so maybe things will work out after all."
Another thing I loved was the characters. From Margarita, their Spanish housekeeper who was always praying quietly and furiously rubbing the cross in her pocket when a crisis came, to the feisty and outspoken Jana Rae, Claire's best friend. She was hilarious, a bit of humor throughout the devastating times in Claire's life. The attention to detail was spot on. There were three major aspects of the book--politics, law and cattle ranching. The amount of research that went into this book is blatantly obvious. The details were just that good. It's West Wing meets L. A. Law meets Dallas and I once loved all three. It starts with a bang and ends with a bang. Great from the first page right up to the last. It's sassy, flirty and fabulous and Kellie Coates Gilbert is definitely an author to watch! I very highly recommend it to lovers of contemporary dramatic fiction!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review and I received no monetary compensation.
Claire Massey lived every woman's dream. She had a husband that still loved her completely. Three grownup children she adored. Legacy Ranch, her home that spanned acres. A highly successful business. A life that put her square in the middle of the most elite circle in Texas. She was a Woman of Fortune--until the day her world crumbled around her. The day they arrested her husband, Tuck, for cattle fraud was the day her life changed forever. Now she is left with nothing but the bare minimum and Claire has never felt so alone. But when she is forced to fight for survival and to hold her family together she is amazed at how well she can stand on her own.
"Claire, I love you so much I can't breathe." ~Tuck
I must say I am often skeptical about fresh, new authors. But, every now and then I come across a novel by a new author that's a real gem. A Woman of Fortune is definitely a gem. Once I started reading it I thought of all of those times I watched tourists pan for gold under those small, rundown shelters where you pay to pan and pray you find just one tiny nugget. This book is the gold nugget amid all those rocks. One thing that really stood out to me was the love between Claire and Tuck. It came through so vividly that there was no way you could question the authenticity of it. It affected me emotionally as a reader when Claire finally decided to put her life back together and move on. Every romance novel deals with love, that's why their called romance novels. But, no matter how well written, you never forget you're reading fiction. Well, I did. I felt like I was smack in the middle of Claire Massey's life and it was a fascinating place to be.
"Not that my advice is going to work for that poor gal. You could park a car in the shadow of her behind, know what I mean? Jana Rae laughed, then added, "'Course that man she's after fell down the ugly tree and hit every branch of the way down--so maybe things will work out after all."
Another thing I loved was the characters. From Margarita, their Spanish housekeeper who was always praying quietly and furiously rubbing the cross in her pocket when a crisis came, to the feisty and outspoken Jana Rae, Claire's best friend. She was hilarious, a bit of humor throughout the devastating times in Claire's life. The attention to detail was spot on. There were three major aspects of the book--politics, law and cattle ranching. The amount of research that went into this book is blatantly obvious. The details were just that good. It's West Wing meets L. A. Law meets Dallas and I once loved all three. It starts with a bang and ends with a bang. Great from the first page right up to the last. It's sassy, flirty and fabulous and Kellie Coates Gilbert is definitely an author to watch! I very highly recommend it to lovers of contemporary dramatic fiction!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review and I received no monetary compensation.
May 15, 2014
About the Book:
Texas socialite Claire Massey is living the dream. Her world is filled with designer clothes, luxury cars, and stunning homes. But her Neiman-Marcus lifestyle comes crashing down when her charming cattle broker husband is arrested for fraud. Suddenly, she finds herself facing attorneys, a media frenzy, and a trail of broken hearts. Betrayed and humiliated, Claire must start over against incredible odds to save her family–and discover a life worth living.
Poignant and emotionally gripping, A Woman of Fortune reveals the many ways we deceive ourselves and how resilience of the heart is essential to authentic living. Drawing on her experiences as a legal investigator, author Kellie Coates Gilbert delivers emotionally gripping plots and authentic characters. Readers will love Claire’s unbending determination as she strives to keep her family from falling apart and learns to embrace the kind of fortune that lasts.
About the Author:
Kellie Coates Gilbert is a former legal investigator and trial paralegal who investigated the largest cattle fraud case in US history. Her legal experience gives her an insider's view into how people react under pressure. Gilbert explores the complexity of relationships in her emotionally charged stories about women in life-changing circumstances. The author of Mother of Pearl, she currently lives in Dallas, Texas, with her husband. Learn more at www.kelliecoatesgilbert.com.
My Review:
Claire Massey was living the high life or so she thought, parties&celebrations whenever and where ever she wanted. She would have new treasures laid at her feet in a matter of seconds. She lived this way for many, many years. She thought she had her life under control, but little did she know that her husband had a HUGE secret, that would change her life forever. Her life as she knows it comes to a complete hault, everything has changed. Will she ever get back to what really matters?
We soon after many bends in the road, learn whats more important. God and family has always been what keeps me grounded, nothing else really matters other than those two things. Claire will be forced to look at her life and she will have to make some hard decisions as soon as she does.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Revell.
Texas socialite Claire Massey is living the dream. Her world is filled with designer clothes, luxury cars, and stunning homes. But her Neiman-Marcus lifestyle comes crashing down when her charming cattle broker husband is arrested for fraud. Suddenly, she finds herself facing attorneys, a media frenzy, and a trail of broken hearts. Betrayed and humiliated, Claire must start over against incredible odds to save her family–and discover a life worth living.
Poignant and emotionally gripping, A Woman of Fortune reveals the many ways we deceive ourselves and how resilience of the heart is essential to authentic living. Drawing on her experiences as a legal investigator, author Kellie Coates Gilbert delivers emotionally gripping plots and authentic characters. Readers will love Claire’s unbending determination as she strives to keep her family from falling apart and learns to embrace the kind of fortune that lasts.
About the Author:
Kellie Coates Gilbert is a former legal investigator and trial paralegal who investigated the largest cattle fraud case in US history. Her legal experience gives her an insider's view into how people react under pressure. Gilbert explores the complexity of relationships in her emotionally charged stories about women in life-changing circumstances. The author of Mother of Pearl, she currently lives in Dallas, Texas, with her husband. Learn more at www.kelliecoatesgilbert.com.
My Review:
Claire Massey was living the high life or so she thought, parties&celebrations whenever and where ever she wanted. She would have new treasures laid at her feet in a matter of seconds. She lived this way for many, many years. She thought she had her life under control, but little did she know that her husband had a HUGE secret, that would change her life forever. Her life as she knows it comes to a complete hault, everything has changed. Will she ever get back to what really matters?
We soon after many bends in the road, learn whats more important. God and family has always been what keeps me grounded, nothing else really matters other than those two things. Claire will be forced to look at her life and she will have to make some hard decisions as soon as she does.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Revell.
May 23, 2022
Chic lit of the best kind! Love all stories by this author.
June 4, 2014
I was not expecting to relate to a character in a novel like I did in this one. Of course, one minor detail - she has tons of money! Claire Massey lives a high life and enjoys sharing with her friends and family. She gives lavish parties and dotes on her three grown children. One challenge has crept into her perfect life. Tuck, her husband spends an extraordinary amount of time in business meetings and calls. She's not sure what to think until the horrible moment of his arrest occurs at the biggest dinner affair after he has pledged an enormous amount of money to their future son-in-law's political campaign. Life changes drastically for everyone in her family as he is led out of the building.
You may be wondering how I relate to Claire. Well, let's just say my first marriage was built on many lies that I believed until things started crashing around me. Embarassment, people treating you differently, talking about you behind your back, invitations no longer coming in the mail, church folks less interested in you and life as you knew it, gone.
Claire has two good assets: a devoted friend who does not mince her words. Jana Rae stands by her even when Claire's children scatter. The other, determination to not let anything get her down through her faith.
Well, Kellie Coates Gilbert knows how to grab you and keep you reading until you discover every page. I recommend reading A Woman of Fortune.
You may be wondering how I relate to Claire. Well, let's just say my first marriage was built on many lies that I believed until things started crashing around me. Embarassment, people treating you differently, talking about you behind your back, invitations no longer coming in the mail, church folks less interested in you and life as you knew it, gone.
Claire has two good assets: a devoted friend who does not mince her words. Jana Rae stands by her even when Claire's children scatter. The other, determination to not let anything get her down through her faith.
Well, Kellie Coates Gilbert knows how to grab you and keep you reading until you discover every page. I recommend reading A Woman of Fortune.
June 2, 2014
Kellie's sophomore book, A Woman of Fortune is ripped from today's headlines, and I dare you to be able to put this book down. I couldn't and I know I will continue to think about these characters long after I have closed this book.
Claire's husband Tuck is charged with cattle fraud, selling cattle that are on paper, but not on his land. The Massey's are Texas socialites, and in one day they go from living on a spacious estate, to their father/husband in prison; their clothes, jewelry, cars, even their daughter, Lainie's horse, Pride being confiscated.
With Tuck in prison, they will all have to find their way. Will Claire leave her lying, stealing, husband or will she stand by her man. What will her three children, Garrett, Max, and Lainie do? How will they handle their father's crimes.
Kellie writes a book so full of emotion and heartache that you are literally feel as though you are going through this with the characters. The spiritual element is not overwhelming or preachy, however, you will walk away from this book thinking about what Jesus told Peter about forgiveness.
Highly recommended!!
Claire's husband Tuck is charged with cattle fraud, selling cattle that are on paper, but not on his land. The Massey's are Texas socialites, and in one day they go from living on a spacious estate, to their father/husband in prison; their clothes, jewelry, cars, even their daughter, Lainie's horse, Pride being confiscated.
With Tuck in prison, they will all have to find their way. Will Claire leave her lying, stealing, husband or will she stand by her man. What will her three children, Garrett, Max, and Lainie do? How will they handle their father's crimes.
Kellie writes a book so full of emotion and heartache that you are literally feel as though you are going through this with the characters. The spiritual element is not overwhelming or preachy, however, you will walk away from this book thinking about what Jesus told Peter about forgiveness.
Highly recommended!!
June 3, 2014
I took note of Kellie Coates Gilbert with the release of her stellar debut novel last year (Mother of Pearl, reviewed here), and her sophomore release is just as impressive. Although the utter opulence of the Massey family's life in the opening chapters frankly made me cringe, Gilbert's skill at character portrayal gradually caused my heart to warm toward Claire and sympathize with the plethora of emotions she experienced during the upheaval of the life she knew. The nuances of family relationships, the superficiality of "friendships" based on status, and what defines a marriage - all of these issues and more are capably explored in this riveting story. A stark reminder that sometimes we have to lose it all to discover what we really have, A Woman of Fortune will stir your heart and strengthen your faith.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishers as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishers as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
October 22, 2014
This book was impossible to put down!! I was hooked from the start and it is definitely a new favorite. If you are looking for a spoiler...I'm not going to give it away.
A Woman of Fortune by Kellie Coates Gilbert is filled to the brim with romance, inspiration, intrigue...you become deeply invested and will not want the story to end - I know I didn't!
Ms. Gilbert's realistic writing style makes you feel like you know the characters personally, that you are watching them grow before you. This is a powerfully emotional story that reminds you of what is most important in life...not material things...but faith, love of God, and your family!
I am looking forward to Ms. Gilbert's next book! I would highly recommend this book to everyone, it is wonderful!
I was given this book for my honest opinion by bookfun.org.
A Woman of Fortune by Kellie Coates Gilbert is filled to the brim with romance, inspiration, intrigue...you become deeply invested and will not want the story to end - I know I didn't!
Ms. Gilbert's realistic writing style makes you feel like you know the characters personally, that you are watching them grow before you. This is a powerfully emotional story that reminds you of what is most important in life...not material things...but faith, love of God, and your family!
I am looking forward to Ms. Gilbert's next book! I would highly recommend this book to everyone, it is wonderful!
I was given this book for my honest opinion by bookfun.org.
February 10, 2015
This is the first book I have read by this author but it won't be my last. I was drawn into the story line and the lives of the characters from the first pages and was kept reading until the final pages. The author does a wonderful job of capturing the emotions of Claire and her children as they deal with the consequences of theft and embezzlement by Claire's charismatic cattle broker husband and as they deal with the loss of everything they owned. It is an engrossing story following the family as they have to start over in life and Claire as she has to deal with the issues of her marriage and the sanctity of her marriage vows. It is also a wonderful story showing how that God's love and forgiveness can bring a family through even the worst of circumstances. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 25, 2014
I opted to read this book because it sounded a bit different--and it was. Not your typical romance or feel-good women's fiction story. Although I can't relate to the kind of wealth Claire had and lost, I can relate to feelings of betrayal, abandonment, and complete lack of power. LOVE how none of Clarie's decisions were clean-cut or tidy. She had to muck through the mess in her life just like, well, we all do. Since the author opted to include a short epilogue, I do wish she'd given us just a wee bit more, but I suspect she's looking to the reader to finish the story. And I can do that most satisfactorily!
November 14, 2014
A Woman of Fortune is a page turner that plunged me into the lives of the rich and privileged from the start. While I agree, like other reviewers, that I couldn’t personally relate to the opulent lifestyle of the Massey family, I was drawn into their dilemma of “losing it all” overnight. Kellie Gilbert’s legal experience added a rich texture to the drama, but it was her treatment of the characters and showing their growth in what seemed a hopeless situation that kept me invested in the story. It gave me pause to wonder what choices I might have made in similar circumstances. Thanks, Kellie, for a great read!
November 3, 2015
I really liked this book. I had delayed reading it because I like to wait until I can read the entire series, but I learned that the books in the Texas Gold series can stand alone. I'm glad I didn't wait because I really enjoyed this first book. Claire, the main character, is such a strong woman, though if she were "a real person" she would probably think of herself as weak. I'm so proud of the way she handled the tragedy in her family. This is my first Kellie Gilbert read, but I know it won't be my last one. I'm really looking forward to the other books in the series.
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Blurb:
Texas socialite Claire Massey is living the dream. Her world is filled with designer clothes, luxury cars, and stunning homes. But her Neiman-Marcus lifestyle comes crashing down when her charming cattle broker husband is arrested for fraud. Suddenly, she finds herself facing attorneys, a media frenzy, and a trail of broken hearts. Betrayed and humiliated, Claire must start over against incredible odds to save her family--and discover a life worth living.
Blurb:
Texas socialite Claire Massey is living the dream. Her world is filled with designer clothes, luxury cars, and stunning homes. But her Neiman-Marcus lifestyle comes crashing down when her charming cattle broker husband is arrested for fraud. Suddenly, she finds herself facing attorneys, a media frenzy, and a trail of broken hearts. Betrayed and humiliated, Claire must start over against incredible odds to save her family--and discover a life worth living.
May 16, 2015
This book was a wonderful book. I really appreciated the Heroine who stood by her man. Not many folks would do that in this day. She seemed to really love him no matter what he did. She really lost almost everything and this situation drew her closer to the Lord. As a result, it made a huge impact on her family. I think a wife and mother really do set the thermostat in the family dynamics and this story really showed it. I'm really proud of this fictitious woman.
March 23, 2022
WA Surprising Story
When the story began I assumed that it was the typical rich dysfunctional family narrative….spoiled, one dimensional characters.
By the 3rd chapter I was riveted and could barely stop turning the pages. The story showed God’s grace, love and forgiveness through the family in a way that anyone can relate to. I’ll definitely be reading more of Ms Gilbert’s books.
When the story began I assumed that it was the typical rich dysfunctional family narrative….spoiled, one dimensional characters.
By the 3rd chapter I was riveted and could barely stop turning the pages. The story showed God’s grace, love and forgiveness through the family in a way that anyone can relate to. I’ll definitely be reading more of Ms Gilbert’s books.
September 5, 2014
A favorite! This gripping, ripped-from-the-headlines story shows what can happen when faith enters in - with exquisite writing that flows across the page, emotionally complex characters who deal with troubling situations, legal drama, southern humor (Texas style), spiritual application, and a plot that just won't let go.
See my review at http://tinyurl.com/my8jdjw
See my review at http://tinyurl.com/my8jdjw
June 21, 2017
A Woman of Fortune was a passable novel that didn’t quite live up to its Texas-sized potential. While offering glimpses of brilliance in its happily-married hero and heroine, as well as a unique, behind-the-scenes look at legally prosecuting a widespread financial fraud, the overall construction and execution of the story left too much to be desired.
November 12, 2021
Amazing Read
This book is one you will not want to put down! I love the characters and don't want to say goodbye. The truth of life is throughout. God doesn't promise us we will have no storms but he promise
This book is one you will not want to put down! I love the characters and don't want to say goodbye. The truth of life is throughout. God doesn't promise us we will have no storms but he promise
July 5, 2014
Unexpectedly Claire husband is arrested and convicted of fraud. Everything is taken from her. She survives and decided to wait for him to get out of prison.
March 26, 2019
Discovering What Is Important
Compelling, satisfying, and inspiring on so many levels. Expertly written. I will definitely read books by this author again and again!
Compelling, satisfying, and inspiring on so many levels. Expertly written. I will definitely read books by this author again and again!
September 1, 2021
Texas all the way!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It kept my interest through out the entire story. Very well written and keeps the story moving.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It kept my interest through out the entire story. Very well written and keeps the story moving.
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