Historical Romance Book Review: A Gem of Truth
About the Book
Title: A Gem of Truth
Series: Secrets of the Canyon
Author: Kimberley Woodhouse
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Release Date: September 20, 2022
Click here to purchase a copy of this novel.
Publisher's Book Description
“Escaping her shattered past is much more difficult than she imagined.
Julia Schultz has a reputation for being a storyteller, or as others see it, a liar. But with her dark and painful past, stories are all that have kept her company throughout her life. Longing for a fresh start and a second chance to earn real trust, Julia takes a job as a Harvey Girl at the El Tovar Hotel, where she's challenged to be her true self.
Learning the trade of a master jeweler is hard work, but Christopher Miller takes pride in running his family's small shop and earning the respect of the people around him. But when he discovers that he has six weeks to buy his building from his landlord before it is sold, he must find a way to save his grandfather's legacy.
United by the discovery of a legendary treasure, Chris and Julia find hope in each other. But when Julia's past catches up with her, doubt creeps into Chris's heart. Can he really trust her and her stories?”
My Review
A Gem of Truth, by Kimberley Woodhouse, is the second book in the Secrets of the Canyon series. This compelling historical romance features a gripping story of friendship, faith, and redemption. Ms. Woodhouse has crafted a captivating story that is very entertaining, and she has filled it with adventure, mystery, an unforgettable setting, and vivid characters.
With writing that is well-researched and inviting, Ms. Woodhouse has set this story primarily at the El Tovar Hotel and the Hopi House at the southern rim of the Grand Canyon in 1907. This setting is immersive and very influential with its narrow hiking trails, treacherous cliffs, and dark caves that provide the perfect backdrop for many riveting scenes. The detailed descriptions of the canyon bring to life a natural environment that is quite moving and memorable.
Within the wild beauty of the Grand Canyon, the story unfolds with interesting characters, plot surprises, and unforgettable moments. The characters are genuinely engaging, and their struggles and vulnerabilities are relatable. As they endeavor to move beyond their insecurities, they must face their fears in order to achieve their goals. Though they endure frustrations, dangers, and uncertainties, they display courage, determination, and resiliency that is inspiring. Their faith is nurtured as they open their hearts to grace, forgiveness, honesty, and friendship.
Reading A Gem of Truth was truly an enjoyable experience. With a story that is both touching and thrilling, this novel is very appealing. I eagerly recommend it to all readers, and I am certainly looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
*I was given a copy of this novel from the author/publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
About the Author: Kimberley Woodhouse
“Kim is a devoted wife and mother, and a third generation Liszt student. She has passed down her love of music and the arts to hundreds of students over the years, recorded three albums, and appeared at over 2,000 venues to more than a million people. Her quick wit, enthusiasm, and positive outlook through difficult circumstances have gained her audiences at conferences, retreats, churches, military functions, and seminars all over the country.
The Woodhouse family’s story has been on the front page of newspapers, in magazines, articles, medical journals, and most famously featured on ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. They were also asked to share their story on The Montel Williams Show and Discovery Health Channel’s Mystery ER along with hundreds of other TV appearances and radio interviews.
Kim has been writing seriously for more than twenty years. Songs, plays, short stories, novels, picture books, articles, newsletters – you name it – she’s written it. It wasn’t until a dear friend challenged her to “do something with it” that she pursued publication. Now, she is a best-selling author of more than two dozen books, with more on the way. She has won The Carol Award, The Reader’s Choice Award, The Holt Medallion, and has finaled in the Selah Awards and the Spur Awards.
She is passionate about Bible study, reading, music, cooking, and pretty-much-all-things-crafty. Kimberley has been married to her incredible husband for twenty-nine years and counting and they have two married adult children.” Biography from Kimberley Woodhouse’s website at KimberleyWoodhouse.com.
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