The Lights of Mahonri Moriancumer

Matt Howard #1

by Phyllis Gunderson

A monk with a secret... A light that never dies... A legend that could change history... There is an ancient legend about shining stones. About lights that never dim, never die. And the stones are old. Very old. Archaeologist Mathilda Howard believes in solid scientific fact and proven history. Not mythical stories about shining stones or prehistoric advanced civilizations. But when an old Tibetan monk shares his experience of the "lights that do not die," Matt knows she has to find out more. Then, when at an archaeological dig a student gives Matt a little black book that contains a story about shining stones - a story that happens to match a local legend - she finds herself on a journey to uncover the truth. From a sacred mountain in China to a lost civilization in Brazil, Matt finds that she is digging up more than just archaeological artifacts. Her search for the shining stones leads her to some startling discoveries, as well as to a new religion. The LDS church may have the answers she has been looking for, but it may also cost her all that she values in life - her career, her prestige, and her family. As evidence of the shining stones mounts, Matt is faced with a decision she never thought she'd have to does she ignore the stones and agree what is scientifically acceptable, or does speak out against the established norms and tell the truth? There are people who are desperate to keep the stones a secret. How much is Matt willing to sacrifice for the lost stones of the Jaradites?

Genres: Religion, Lds, Lds Fiction, Fiction

180 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Tobreth Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

fun. some interesting insights.

[Shanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a quick read I found at DI. It interested me because I've always had a fascination of archeology. I think going on a dig would be a great adventure because I know I would make some amazing new discovery!
I wonder if the lighted rocks are really still here. Was the technology of pre-Noah really so advanced?

[Etta Mcquade · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book because I served a mission in Thailand with the author and felt obligated. Since I'm not a lover of Mormon fiction, I was pleasantly surprised to actually have enjoyed it. I loved the narrator's sense of humor. Phyllis told me she did much research, although the publisher did not print all of her notes.

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is only 176 pages so it is a quick read. It is very interesting. I love the main character and her perspective. She is an anthropologist in her 60's, and after teaching for many years decides to get involved in actual "digs". She has some awesome, exciting, adventures and I was captivated through the whole book.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It made me want to read Hugh Nibley and some of the other sources she cited which tell about the stones of Mahonri Moriancumer. It gives you a lot to think about, and is a good conversion story.

[Allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute story. Not as much action as I thought there would be. I was hoping for more of an Indiana Jones type story than it actually was.

[Jocelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I met and heard from the author in our book group. All her material comes from others writings and finding. Fasinating! Made me want to know more about the lights of Mahonri Morancumer.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the premise, and the main character is adorable in all the wonderfully "crusty" ways an older lady can be.

[CynthyB · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. My only complaint was it ended too soon. Interesting, fun characters, and based on the Book of Mormon. Fun to read.

[LeMira · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting book about an archaeologist who is intrigued by "lights that don't go out," and how she gets a little blue book with a story about such lights. Light, easy read.

[Lynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really short and fast read. The archaeology information is interesting.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I read it to my nephews and they liked it too. It is full of adventure and involves several different settings.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun what-if situation.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read!