I received this book free from the author through LibraryThing in exchange for an honest review. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The main female character was very determined and stubborn which made for a very interesting book. This book is historical fiction showing the plight of women during the Klondike gold rush with a surprise ending. I will be reading the other books in this series to find out the whole story. A well-written book. ( )

This book is actually the second in the series and it appealed to my interest in historical fiction. The search for gold in the western part of the U.S. and Canada is a familiar theme in American literature, as is love stories that come out of this backdrop. However, this story definitely has it’s own take on this popular period in history. What I appreciate is that author zooms in on particular facets of the journey to the Klondike. She artfully takes the reader through the difficulty of the actual journey. Details such as the hardships of getting ashore, traversing steep paths and waiting seasons to cross treacherous rivers, takes this iconic piece of history and somehow makes it more relatable. By zeroing in on the aspirations of three characters and their day to day activities turns idealized historical fiction into a tangible journey of perseverance and determination.

Speaking of the characters, one of the characters is based on a photographer of the time. It’s his photo that graces the cover of the book. He is integral to the story but he does not overshadow it. This nod to historical accuracy without a dependency on his celebrity is a hard line to walk. I must say that M. M. Justus walks it expertly which demonstrates both her commitment to historical detail and artistic license.

Overall, this was a very enjoyable read which has renewed my interest in this historical period. I look forward to reading more from her and have already downloaded the next novel in the series. If you enjoy tales from the West of adventure, searches for treasure and relationships I suggest that you give this series a try. You will appreciate the intelligence of the author’s mix of history, storytelling and romance.

For my complete review please visit my blog: http://honeylemontea.com/2014/04/07/book-review-true-gold-by-m-m-justus/ ( )

I wasn't at all sure if I was going to enjoy this book. I love historical fiction but had never read anything from this period, however I needn't have worried, I thought the overall story line was engaging and the descriptions of life at the time and the scenery really allowed the reader to imagine what it was like to be there.

I did struggle a little with the main female character as I really didn't like her, I found her sharp and judgemental, I understand that this characterisation was in part integral to the story and was meant to help us understand her as a free spirited woman, but I do think this might have been over played slightly.

I did really enjoy this book, and will be reading the others in the series as I'm curious to see where it goes next ( )

As a person who has researched the Klondike Gold Rush, especially women during it, I found this book very accurate in it portrayal of women in the Yukon. I had trouble putting this book down. [True Gold] by [M.M. Justus] should be read by all fans of historic fiction.

I really like how Justus develops her characters. They are very realistic and you can feel the emotions of them through the writing. The description of the setting transports you to the location of her stories.It is obvious Justus is familiar with both the history and geography of her locations.

I am looking forward to reading more in this series. ( )