"When things seem too good to be true, they often are...."

"What Matters Most"
By Kellie Coates Gilbert

Synopsis:

Deeply Emotional Writing Highlights the Complexities of Human Relationships

Leta Breckenridge is forced to drop out of college to care for her dementia-ridden mother. After learning a severely delinquent account may force her mother into a less desirable facility, Leta steps out of her comfort zone and lands a high-paying job at an Austin public relations firm. But her dream job turns into a nightmare when she learns the firm is a front for a political opposition machine--and that the research she's been collecting will be used against her new love interest, Nathan Emerson.

Nathan is a rising political star being pressured to run a bid to unseat the current governor of Texas. He's already in a relationship with a woman much better suited to be a politician's wife, but he's never met anyone like Leta. Could this feisty, challenging woman hold the key to his heart?

My Thoughts:

This book is part of the "Texas Gold" Series. It can be read as a stand alone as they do not have connecting characters. These books focus on women who are facing challenges in their lives. Each one hopes that the changes will be positive, however, discover that this isn't always the case, so they must accept the inevitable and deal with it. 

Kellie deals with a difficult, heartbreaking topic with sensitivity and grace. As one who has dealt with dementia of a parent, this book struck a chord with me that had me living the story alongside Leta. Every battle she faced was one that I felt deep within. 

The characters are realistic and so well developed that I easily and quickly identified with them. Their challenges became mine!!! Leta was a person who I learned to admire, her patience, understanding and determination to help her mother were qualities that deserved a medal. Leta faces struggles that one never desires. When torn between right and wrong, what will Leta choose?? Nathan is also dealing with many bumps in his journey, being torn between the expectations of his family and his constituents. As Nathan is in the public eye , he fights a very different kind of battle. He must please the public! But can he????

The plot moves at a steady pace with just enough unexpected twists and turns to keep the reader engaged from beginning to end. Although I did not completely understand all of the politics involved in the story, I did love the fact that someone in the public eye would care for those who voted for him in such a meaningful way. Leta's battle to honour her Christian values that her mom  had instilled in her, was one that was not easy. I felt her every challenge, fear and worry. As she and Nathan become closer, their journey to do right and keep their faith strong becomes more evident. Although their battles appear very different , a common bond draws them together. 

I highly recommend this book!! A great read! The underlying message to keep your faith strong at all times, even during the most trying periods, is one that had a great impact on me.

This Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. and is now available at your local booksellers.