Review of Light Changes Everything by Nancy E. Turner
If there’s one author who knows how to weave a tale that grips the heart and sparks the imagination, it’s Nancy E. Turner. I was captivated by the premise of Light Changes Everything, where we find ourselves in the sweltering Arizona Territory of 1907 alongside the fiercely independent Mary Pearl. Being a lover of historical fiction that shines a light on individual journeys, I couldn’t resist diving into this delightful story.
From page one, we meet Mary Pearl, a spirited seventeen-year-old navigating the complexities of youth and desire. Her nighttime escapades—a sneak read of banned Jane Austen novels with her sister Esther—set the tone for a tale brimming with longing and ambition. The unexpected romance with the charming Aubrey Hanna adds a layer of sweet yet complicated infatuation to her life. Can any of us deny the allure of a Mr. Darcy-type figure? Aubrey seems to embody everything a young girl might dream of, filling Mary Pearl’s head with romantic notions, but as the story unfolds, we witness her internal struggle: the desire for love versus the longing for independence as an aspiring artist.
One of the most poignant themes in Light Changes Everything is the exploration of personal identity against societal norms. Mary Pearl’s journey to Wheaton College isnot just the physical relocation to a prestigious art school; it symbolizes a quest for self-discovery. Amidst classes in history, sculpture, and oil painting, she grapples with feelings of being a fish out of water, which I found incredibly relatable. The contrast between her simple upbringing and the lavish life of her peers serves a dual purpose—highlighting both her insecurities and her tenacity to thrive in an unfamiliar environment.
Turner’s writing is rich and evocative, immersing readers in the textures of the Arizona landscape and the inner workings of Mary Pearl’s heart. Her descriptions are vivid, and I loved how effortlessly she captures the essence of turn-of-the-century life while giving voice to a strong female character. The pacing of the novel flows with a rhythm that mirrors Mary Pearl’s emotional ups and downs, making it difficult to put down. I often found myself lingering over passages, savoring the way Turner crafts each moment, filled with both beauty and pain.
Mary Pearl’s relationship with her family, particularly her Granny, adds an extra layer of emotional depth. The responsibility of safeguarding her Granny’s diaries becomes a symbol of legacy, intertwining the past and future in a method that resonated with me deeply. There’s a lovely moment when Mary Pearl realizes the treasure trove of wisdom she holds, which echoes Turner’s knack for portraying the quiet strength found in familial bonds.
As I reached the conclusion of this delightful tale, I couldn’t help but feel as if I had been on a journey alongside Mary Pearl. The characters—Aunt Sarah, Zachary, and the introduction of the intriguing Brody Cooperhead—enrich the narrative, reminding us of the tapestry of relationships that shape us. Turner captivates with humor and heart, and it’s easy to see why this book left me laughing, crying, and wanting more.
I wholeheartedly recommend Light Changes Everything to anyone who adores historical fiction with rich character development and an inspiring message about finding one’s voice. For readers navigating their own paths of self-discovery or those who simply wish to escape into a beautifully crafted world, this book is a treasure. It’s an experience that isn’t just a story; it’s a reflection of what it means to pursue dreams amidst the chaos of life. Five big stars for a truly outstanding read!
You can find more of my reviews on Goodreads, Edelweiss, Barnes & Noble, Twitter, Australian Amazon, Kobo, and my blog at Karren Reads Books. Happy reading!
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