Kimberley Woodhouse returns to the Grand Canyon for her second Secrets of the Canyon book, A Gem of Truth. It is not required to read the first book in this series, but reading the first helps fill in some details for the second. As one would expect, this story has gorgeous landscapes sculpted with words. Travel on a historic journey back to 1907.

The life of a Harvey Girl is explored as readers learn more about life in the early 1900s. The main character has some pretty obvious insecurity that is brought about by difficulties in her life. Learning about Julia Schultz and her life opens up a large scope of introspective opportunities. Other characters join the story and their actions are also added to the pensive plot.

In spite of all the difficult things, the main characters are endearing and people readers want to succeed. The author has included the faith of her characters as part of who they are. Their life journeys are frustrating, scary, and at times adventurous. Come find out what happens to those living life on the edge…of the Grand Canyon.

Review of an Advance Reading Copy provided by the Publisher

Content Analysis

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore:  A character is angry and wants to shoot anyone who gets in his way; multiple incidences in which weapons are fired at people; several accounts of an animal attacking humans, blood is mentioned and there is a fatality; a character recalls watching her parents being hung for robbery and murder; someone attempts to kidnap another and there are shots fired and blood is mentioned; a man is beat up by others.

Sex/Nudity: Non-married characters kiss and embrace.

Mature Subjects:

Death of parents.

Drug/Alcohol Use:

Nothing described in detail.