For anyone who has ever felt unloved or less than or unseen, A Gem of Truth by Kimberley Woodhouse is for you.

Despite Julia’s propensity for stretching the truth and making up stories, she is a likable character from the moment she appears on the page. A hard worker, and defender of those she sees treated poorly, and a woman trying to find her place in her world, Julia is someone I think almost everyone can relate to because we’ve all felt like she has at one time or another in our lives.

Add in a treasure hunt, villains, and a jeweler who makes an excellent hero for Julia, and this second book in Woodhouse’s Secrets of the Canyon series one that you won’t want to put down.

With all of that to love, my favorite character in this book was Ruth and her tender heart for the Harvey House girls—Julia in particular—at the El Tovar Hotel. I am so glad she gets her own story in this series.

Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.

As the second novel in this highly anticipated series, A Gem of Truth is one wonderful read.

Kimberley Woodhouse crafted a story set in the gorgeous Grand Canyon that has as many twists and turns as the Colorado River that runs through the majestic place.

Her characters are interesting and not without very human frailties as well, which only tethers you further into the gripping story.

It is a quick read, as you want to continue turning the pages to see what happens next.

I can't wait for the third book. Make sure to get this gem, and if you've not read the first novel, A Deep Divide, scoop that one up too. It's fantastic!

I received this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to post nor write a review.

Thank you to Bethany House Publishers and to NetGalley for an ARC of this book.

This is the first book that I have read by Kimberley Woodhouse but it certainly won't be the last. I didn't realize that this was the second book in the series, but that didn't really matter.

I thought that this was a really well written book. It has it all: Mystery and a great message. I have always been interested in learning about the Harvey Girls so this book played right into that. This was just a fun book for me. I will definitely be recommending this book to people coming into the library that are looking for something nice to read.

1907 Arizona

What a pleasure to return to the El Tovar Hotel (the elite Harvey Hotel) near the Grand Canyon! While I've visited the north rim, I'm now eager to return to visit the El Tovar. It sounds fascinating.

Julia Schultz is a successful Harvey Girl that doesn't see value in herself nor feel loved. She became an orphan at eight years old and has used fantastical tales to get the attention of others.

Christopher Miller is a creative jeweler so focused on his craft that he hasn't looked up at much beyond his tools and jewels.

The scenery and historical details are brought to life in the pages of this second of the series. The mystery was a fun one and I loved Julia's journey to self-worth and finding the one Father that will never let her down.

And the cover...lovely! I look forward the next character's story in book three!

What a fantastic story! I really loved Julia and her storyline in this book. She overcomes so much, and it makes for a beautiful story of God's redeeming love and how no one is too far for God's love to reach. The mystery of the treasure made for a fun plot, and it played really well into Julia's story and what she is trying to overcome. This is really just the most wonderful book and it will be one for my reread pile! A completely charming story.

I received a copy of this book from the author and also purchased my own Audible copy. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

I've become a big fan of Harvey Girl stories and A Gem of Truth carries on their tradition. Julia was such a sweet character, but it was easy to understand how her stories created a barrier between her and the other girls. We all have different ways of protecting ourselves, and Julia's stories did that for her. I really loved that the women who were in charge actually showed her love by speaking truth to her.

I also liked that even in a new Harvey House, the head waitress, Ruth, played a big part in reaching Julia's heart. She was also a delightful character and I'm happy that she will get her own book. It was also fun to revisit with Emma and Ray, although more so Emma in the story. She's the catalyst for Julia's adventure.

Then, of course, there's Chris Miller, the jeweler. I could just imagine his workshop, his store (inherited from his grandpa), and his designs. It was fortuitous that he met Julia at just the right time. Let's just say, getting connected in El Tovar is more than he bargains for!

There was a sweet faith thread that ran through the whole story as several ladies try to show Christ to Julia. I appreciated that they extended grace and mercy, but also were just in how they handled things like Florence's behavior. Ooooo she's a stinker of a character.

Speaking of which, there were a couple of bad guys in the story, but they seemed more like the Two Stooges than very threatening. Seriously, nothing could go right for them, which was clearly a good thing!

I look forward to reading Ruth's story next!

A Gem of Truth introduces us to complex relatable characters in a well written and flowing story from the turn of the 20th century.

I found Julia's character a great allegory for each of our struggles to find our significance and to find love – ultimately through the love of our Heavenly Father. You see her mature from intro to conclusion while exploring for treasure and teaching the reader a bit about the history of American culture during the early 1900's.

Chris also provides a picture of a common believer's life in his struggle to hold faith in God's provision.

I give the story 5 stars as a great read that drew me in and never got dull. This is book number two in a series but I had no trouble following it without reading the previous title.

I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

A Gem of Truth #2 Secrets of the Canyon by Kimberley Woodhouse

Kimberley Woodhouse brings to life the beauty of the Grand Canyons and the El Tovar Hotel located near the canyons as well as the historic Harvey Girls. With vivid descriptions of the canyons I felt as if I was walking along the canyons trails beside Harvey Girl Julia Schultz and master jeweler Christopher Miller as they searched for lost treasures. I would like to see the beautiful one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces Christopher creates and watch him as he teaches the Hopi parts of his trade. It would be fun to visit the El Tovar Hotel and see this historic hotel and the Grand Canyons.

Christopher and Julia face some challenges and even danger in their quest to find the lost treasures. Treasures-of-the-heart are at risk when events of their past become known. Can they learn to trust each other and find love? Will they allow God to direct their paths in life and love?

The Dear Reader and the note from the author has some interesting historical facts that inspired this book and which are woven within the storyline.

~I bought the book and I received a book from the author/publisher via NetGalley (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~

This book was quite the thrill!

Kimberley Woodhouse had me fully engrossed in the story from chapter one of this touching tale of owning up to our mistakes, our past not defining us and the true miracle of the gift of salvation.

Julia was a great MC, I definitely enjoyed the story as a whole, and recommend this book if you like historical fiction with a Faith-Based point of view.

*Thank you to Bethany House for the complimentary ARC of the book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.*

The second in the Secrets of the Canyon will give readers a spin on treasures left behind by the Spanish expedition. Loved the way the author created the story around the treasure with the Harvey girls. The series will entice readers to visit the Grand Canyon. Looking forward to the next book. Recommended!

Oh my. This story has it all! Adventure, bad guys, treasure, and sweet romance. If you enjoy historical fiction I highly recommend it. Once I picked it up there was no putting it down.

Julia has a past that she is ashamed of and doesn’t want to be known by. I love how she is gently led to the Savior, the One who gives her value. And Christopher also wants value in his life. To see them travel the paths set before them made this book so enjoyable to read. It wasn’t always pretty but God had a plan, and author Kimberley Woodhouse made no bones about it. Yet it was done organically without preaching.

Strong characters made this story one that will keep you turning the pages. Even the secondary characters were fabulous. Including the ones I didn’t like. And the descriptions of El Tovar and the Grand Canyon were beautiful. I enjoyed, too, learning a bit about making high end jewelry. I could see it happening, so well done were the descriptions.

Fabulous book, I recommend reading book one, A Deep Divide, simply because they tie together so well.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

Although I have not read the 1st book in this series, I was able to follow the storyline fairly well. The book is well written and an easy read. I recommend reading this book.

I loved this book so much! I had no idea how much I needed to read this genre of western historical fiction, but it's definitely something I'll be digging into from now on.

Mrs Woodhouse has painted a wonderful tale full of faith, forgiveness, and sacrificial love. She did a brilliant job of depicting the Grand Canyon and it's natural scenic beauty. This book is rich with truth masterfully and seamlessly woven into this story of redemption.

Her leading lady, Julia was relatable, realistic, and funny.
I also loved reading about jeweler Chris and his love of creating pieces to last a lifetime, and capturing the essence of the Hopi Indians heritage.

I've found a new favorite author, y'all! This book was squeaky clean and magnetic. Now I can't wait for the next book in the series, which features Julia's mentor Ruth and her story.

Thank you to the author, publisher, Netgalley, and Interviews and Reviews for both the e-book and paperback copies of this book. It's been my pleasure to give this book 5 stars!

A positive review was not required of me, but was freely given. The thoughts and musings above are my very own.

What a wonderful story! It's full of adventure, love, hope and forgiveness with just enough mystery to keep you turning the pages. I loved this book and highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I was sad to come to the end of this book. A Gem of Truth was exciting and full of adventure. I love how Kimberley Woodhouse weaved the story of grace and salvation into this tale. I now really want to go to the Grand Canyon and visit El Tovar, the Harvey House there. A good treasure hunt is always fun too!

This is the second book in Kimberley Woodhouse's series, Secrets of the Canyon. I'm looking forward to reading the final book about Ruth!

I received a free copy of this book from Baker Book House. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Travel to the El Tovar Grand Canyon Hotel in this remarkable historical tale from Kimberley Woodhouse. I was reeled into the story from the start with Julia’s early life to becoming a Harvey Girl. This tale is filled with history, suspense, colorful scenes, in depth dialogue, dimensional characters and a lovely faith message. I admired Chris and his creativity with gems along with determination to let go and enjoy life a new. The unexpected events had my emotions cheering for the characters who were worthy of being cheered for despite all the obstacles they faced. Who will find new beginnings, forgiveness, hope, faith and romance in this tale? Readers of historical fiction will not want to miss this book by Woodhouse.

I received an advance copy of this book from Bethany House and NetGalley without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own opinion.

A Gem of Truth is a fabulous read and it is now my new favorite I have read by Kimberley Woodhouse. It is getting a deserved five stars.

Rejoin a group of Harvey Girls serving guests at the historic Grand Canyon in 1907. Rich characters make the story come to life as they take the reader along on a wild ride of exploration, treasure hunting, and unintended romance. El Tovar is the crown jewel in the Harvey House chain, sitting on the rim of the magnificent Grand Canyon. With the isolated location, the Harvey girls need to lean on each other and become a family in order thrive and serve to the best of their abilities. That means truth and vulnerability is a must with each other. When Julia was orphaned at 8, she decided to never tell another soul why. In order to leave the pain in the past, Julia told fantastic stories to anyone who would listen. While she is entertaining, it left a void with no one to trust. Then she lands the coveted position at El Tovar and everything must change. This is the new start she needs to try and get things on tract. Hopefully that will include a certain jeweler who makes her want to trust another for the first time. Then the legend of lost treasure awakens a thirst for adventure. What if there really is a hidden treasure in the Grand Canyon? Could she find it on her many exciting explorations of the Canyon? With other unsavory characters also on the hunt, the danger level continues to increase with each passing week. When Julia finds an unbelievable story, who can she tell who will believe her? The only way to find out is to step out in faith and put her trust in someone else as well.
Kimberley Woodhouse brings the Grand Canyon to life with this follow-up story of the historic site. Her stunning attention to details gives a depth to the story that pulls the reader in for the excitement of the treasure hunt and the start of new love. I didn't want the story to end and have to say goodbye to new friends and a beautiful location. I can't wait to return in the next book for this series. Anyone who loves American history wants to get this book on their TBR pile as soon as possible. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I really enjoyed this story! The characters are so relatable that you feel like you are spending time with real people. The descriptions of the Grand Canyon make me want to go visit! I did not see the twist at the end of the story coming though! It sucked me in and made me sit and finish the book right then. It is another great book for the series and another wonderful story from Woodhouse.

Julia Schultz is a Harvey Girl. She has a past that she is afraid will follow her and tries to cope by telling stories. When she is transferred to the El Tovar, it is suggested that she make a change and not tell her tall tales. She decides to heed this advice and it becomes pivotal to her story.

This story is multi-layered and nuanced. There are secrets that are woven throughout that make this story engrossing and left me turning page after page.

The characters are strong, even those on the side. The faith journey is something that I truly enjoyed in this story. Julia doesn't believe herself worthy of love throughout this book and finds that in unexpected places once she is able to let go of the stories that are a shield to her. This complex character is someone we can all relate to. She has hurts and is scared and doesn't want to take the risks that come from opening up.

With the mystery presented by the story, we find a journey that takes Julia from being a lone to finding the love that is bigger than all of us. Kimberley Woodhouse masterfully takes us through this journey as well as through the mystery of this story, giving enough to keep us hooked without giving all the secrets away until the right time.

I was entranced with this story and look forward to reading more stories about the Harvey Girls at the El Tovar.

I received an early copy of this book through the publisher on NetGalley and this is my honest review.