Interview with author Kellie Coates Gilbert

WHAT MATTERS MOST

(TEXAS GOLD COLLECTION BOOK #4)

Kellie Coates Gilbert

Genre: Contemporary Inspirational Romance / Christian

Publisher: Revell

Date of Publication: July 5, 2016

Number of Pages: 320

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Love and Politics Collide in This Emotion-Packed

Fourth Texas Gold Novel

Kellie Coates Gilbert strikes gold once again in the latest book in the Texas Gold Collection. Readers will be drawn into the story through Gilbert’s deeply emotional writing that highlights the complexities of human relationships.

Out of her desire to care for her mother who is suffering from dementia, Leta Breckenridge drops out of college. Her next step means leaving her comfort zone. After learning that a delinquent account may force her mother into a less desirable facility, Leta takes a leap and lands a high-paying job at an Austin public relations firm. But her dream job soon turns into a nightmare when she learns that the firm she is working for is a front for a political opposition organization—and that the research she has been collecting will be used against Nathan Emerson, the handsome senator she’s swiftly falling in love with.

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 woman hold the key to his heart—and his future?

Praise for the Texas Gold Collection

“This tale of family and faith brings to light what truly matters in life.”—RT Book Reviews, 4 stars

“Kellie Coates Gilbert delivers emotionally gripping plots and authentic characters.”—LifeIsStory.com

“Well-drawn, sympathetic characters and graceful language make this an engaging choice for readers.”—Library Journal

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What did you find most useful in learning to write?

I read a lot, which is essential in learning to write well, in my opinion. At some point, I quit reading solely for entertainment and novels became my textbooks. I underline, highlight, note literary devices that work, and those that don’t. My shelves are filled with great writing that pushes me to excellence.

Are you a full-time or part-time writer and does that affect your writing?

After nearly twenty-five years as a legal professional, I transitioned to full-time novelist in 2012. I know many authors who write part-time. For me, I’m a “both feet in” kind of gal. Every ounce of my creativity and business acumen is focused on being the best novelist I can be. . . and it’s my great joy!

What are some day jobs that you have held? Did any impact your writing?

Years ago, while going to high school, I earned extra money as a maid at the Sun Valley Lodge (I made Ted Kennedy’s bed once). The ski lodge and the surrounding resort area are the backdrop for my upcoming series featuring three sisters, scheduled to begin releasing in early 2017.

Do you have any strange writing habits you’d like to share with your readers?

I don’t begin a book until I open an electronic file and fill it with photographs of celebrities that represent my characters. I collect and store photos of locations, houses, cars, clothes…..and videos found on You Tube. This is how I visualize what I need to describe. This method also allows me to remain consistent throughout the book. And somehow my brain starts firing up with story ideas when I am impacted visually.

Oh, and I drink FAR too much coffee in the process! *winks*

How important are names to you in your books? Do you choose the names based on liking the way it sounds or the meaning?

I worked with a story consultant when I wrote the first book in the Texas Gold Collection. He urged me to name my protagonist CLAIRE MASSEY because it sounded like her character journey…..from “clear” to “messy.” That is the only time I used that device, but I found it interesting and many agree that the name issued a subliminal message. Would be interested to know if readers agree. . .

What is something you want to accomplish before you die?

Okay, I admit it! I would like to be a New York Times bestselling author.

What do you want your tombstone to say?

She loved well because she loved God.

Kellie Coates Gilbert is a former legal investigator and trial paralegal, as well as the author of A Woman of Fortune, Where Rivers Part, and A Reason to Stay. Gilbert crafts her emotionally charged stories about women in life-changing circumstances in Dallas, Texas, where she lives with her husband.