This is a what if? story based very loosely on the Bernie Madoff Ponzi scheme and Monte Sharp, a Texas “businessman” who ran a similar scheme to Madoff’s, except Sharp used cattle instead of securities and stocks.

The 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.

The ‘what if’ is “What if a family who fell apart because of one man’s crimes was able to hold themselves together?”

I quite liked this one. Claire is a bit naïve, even obtuse, at the beginning. But her emotions are real and effectively conveyed. The faith elements are handled deftly. I’ve recommended this to several people already and I passed my copy on to a friend.

Can you imagine living a lifestyle where money has lost its value? Whatever you want, you pick up the phone and it magically appears a short time later? The opening scene, set at the Massey ranch during their annual barbecue is a glimpse into that kind of life.

I ascribe to the “just enough” philosophy. I want just enough of something that I don’t forget what it was like without and never stop appreciating it. Just enough rain to make me appreciate the sun. Just enough hot days to make me appreciate winter. Just enough acclaim to keep me from feeling unappreciated. Just enough weeds so I appreciate the flowers (THIS one is a biggie for me!).  

I think Claire came to this realization at the end of her story. I like to hope so, anyway.