What do you think?
Rate this book
Light Changes Everything: A Novel
“I adored stepping into to the world of the Prines through tough-as-rawhide Mary Pearl. Light Changes Everything is a novel as gritty and authentic as the women of the Arizona Territory. Nancy E. Turner brings the west and its people fully to life.” –Lisa Wingate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Before We Were Yours Bestselling author Nancy E. Turner returns to the world of Sarah Agnes Prine through the wide-eyes of her irrepressible young niece, Mary Pearl.It’s the summer of 1907 and the sun is scorching down on Mary Pearl in the Arizona Territory. Mary Pearl and her sister Esther take their minds off the heat by sneaking banned Jane Austen novels from Aunt Sarah Elliot’s lively bookshelf. Whispered read alouds preoccupy their nights, and reveries of getting hitched to their own Mr. Darcy à la Pride and Prejudice swirl through their day dreams. In walks old-fashioned old-money suitor Aubrey Hanna, here to whisk seventeen year old Mary Pearl off her feet with a forbidden kiss and hasty engagement. With the promise of high society outings and a rich estate, Aubrey’s lustful courtship quickly creates petty tension among the three generations of Prine women.As autumn approaches all too quickly, Mary Pearl’s Wheaton College acceptance counters quick marriage preparations. Days of travel by horse and by train carry her deep into a sophisticated new world of Northern girls’ schooling. Seeking friendship but finding foes, Mary Pearl not only learns how to write, read, and draw, but also how to act, dress, and be a woman. Light Changes Everything is the story of a resilient young feminist a century ahead of her time. Full of gumption and spirit, Mary Pearl’s evocative coming of age tale is destined to be the next American classic.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2020
207 people are currently reading
7386 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 711 reviews
November 20, 2019
3.5 rounded up
1907 in the Arizona Territory, a dangerous time and place to live is reflected in this story of a wonderful character and family. Seventeen year old Mary Pearl reads Jane Austen books with her sister in their room at night to keep it from their mother who believes as most people here do - that reading and learning aren’t really important for girls and that they should be concerned only about finding a husband. Mary Pearl has other ideas, though. She hopes to go east to Chicago to school to study art and photography. Those plans are almost stymied by the marriage proposal of a well to do lawyer and Mary Pearl is naively infatuated enough to think she could go to school and come back to marry Aubrey. Thankfully for her, it doesn’t come about as this cad, this creep turns out to be a very different kind of man than she thought.
A quick read, predictable, but not always light. Some tough losses and difficult things happen to this family living during this difficult and dangerous time. They are resilient in the face of it, going back to Mary Pearl’s grandmother and continuing with Mary Pearl. In the face of adversity she’s as feisty and determined as she was to leave home and go to school, to follow her dream. Her love and loyalty to her family bring her back home when her two younger brothers are in danger. Mary Pearl faces some other personal decisions and I don’t want to go into detail to avoid spoilers, but will say that I admired her strength and the maturity she gains as the story moves forward, how her view of the world grows as she encounters a life different from her isolated one. I couldn’t help but round it up to 4 stars. As much as I loved the character of Mary Pearl, my favorite character was her grandmother, who asks Mary Pearl to write down her memories and carry them with her. They are not just memories, but words of wisdom and love that impact Mary Pearl in ways that are moving and relevant to her.
In some ways, the earlier parts of the story felt like it was geared to a YA audience, and I would definitely call this a coming of age story as she moves from a naive young girl to a mature young woman. I found it also to be an interesting work of historical fiction reflecting on women in this time and place with relevance for today in many ways.
I read this with Diane and Esil as one of our monthly reads, but we read two this month :).
I received an advanced copy of this book from Thomas Dunne Books through Edelweiss.
1907 in the Arizona Territory, a dangerous time and place to live is reflected in this story of a wonderful character and family. Seventeen year old Mary Pearl reads Jane Austen books with her sister in their room at night to keep it from their mother who believes as most people here do - that reading and learning aren’t really important for girls and that they should be concerned only about finding a husband. Mary Pearl has other ideas, though. She hopes to go east to Chicago to school to study art and photography. Those plans are almost stymied by the marriage proposal of a well to do lawyer and Mary Pearl is naively infatuated enough to think she could go to school and come back to marry Aubrey. Thankfully for her, it doesn’t come about as this cad, this creep turns out to be a very different kind of man than she thought.
A quick read, predictable, but not always light. Some tough losses and difficult things happen to this family living during this difficult and dangerous time. They are resilient in the face of it, going back to Mary Pearl’s grandmother and continuing with Mary Pearl. In the face of adversity she’s as feisty and determined as she was to leave home and go to school, to follow her dream. Her love and loyalty to her family bring her back home when her two younger brothers are in danger. Mary Pearl faces some other personal decisions and I don’t want to go into detail to avoid spoilers, but will say that I admired her strength and the maturity she gains as the story moves forward, how her view of the world grows as she encounters a life different from her isolated one. I couldn’t help but round it up to 4 stars. As much as I loved the character of Mary Pearl, my favorite character was her grandmother, who asks Mary Pearl to write down her memories and carry them with her. They are not just memories, but words of wisdom and love that impact Mary Pearl in ways that are moving and relevant to her.
In some ways, the earlier parts of the story felt like it was geared to a YA audience, and I would definitely call this a coming of age story as she moves from a naive young girl to a mature young woman. I found it also to be an interesting work of historical fiction reflecting on women in this time and place with relevance for today in many ways.
I read this with Diane and Esil as one of our monthly reads, but we read two this month :).
I received an advanced copy of this book from Thomas Dunne Books through Edelweiss.
November 25, 2019
Arizona Territory, Mary is part of a close knit family who has a bigger ambition than to be a wife and mother. She wants to be an artist and her father agrees to send her to Wheaton College in Illinois. This also happens to be a place I'm very familiar with since it is relatively close to where I live. Life, however in all it's cruelty will intervene before she can realize her dream. Life was tough for women in the territory and Mary is a strong woman, who must find a way to move forward.
This was another, actually our second this month, with Angela and Esil, and though we often agree, this time our opinions were somewhat different. Something I can't quite put my finger on bothered me about the tone, voice, I which this was written. It seemed, especially in the beginning, that Mary sounded very young, younger than her years, though she does grow stronger throughout the novel. I also found it predictable. I did enjoy the last third more than the other parts, though even there, I fe!t it was overly dramatic at times. I did like the history, the characters, Mary and her family. My two favorites of the supporting cast were Mary's grandmother snd the cowboy, Brody, both who added greatly to this story.
So, a mixed reaction but an easy to read, well paced story with some interesting history.
ARC by Netgalley.
This was another, actually our second this month, with Angela and Esil, and though we often agree, this time our opinions were somewhat different. Something I can't quite put my finger on bothered me about the tone, voice, I which this was written. It seemed, especially in the beginning, that Mary sounded very young, younger than her years, though she does grow stronger throughout the novel. I also found it predictable. I did enjoy the last third more than the other parts, though even there, I fe!t it was overly dramatic at times. I did like the history, the characters, Mary and her family. My two favorites of the supporting cast were Mary's grandmother snd the cowboy, Brody, both who added greatly to this story.
So, a mixed reaction but an easy to read, well paced story with some interesting history.
ARC by Netgalley.
August 24, 2019
As this story begins, it is summer in the Arizona Territory, and the year is 1907. Mary and Esther Pearl are reading Jane Austin novels which they’ve borrowed from their Aunt Sarah (Agnes Prine), and sharing their hopes and dreams for a husband of their very own. However, these relatively innocent dreams compared to their more serious plans for their futures.
Mary and Esther have other, older, siblings. Older brothers, Clover, and Joshua. Joshua is studying medicine, and Clover wants to run the pecan farm their father owns. Older sisters, Rachel and Rebecca, but Mary is the youngest girl. Two younger brothers, Ezra and Zachary who Mary is their “keeper.” Keeping them in line, and out of trouble. As this story begins, Mary is about to turn seventeen, and she dreams of going away to school, she wants more out of her life, and one day, her parents show tell her about an advertisement for a college “back east,” and that her Aunt Sarah had sent them a picture she had drawn, and now Wheaton College would like to accept her as a student.
”You’ll make friends there in Illinois. It’s a real state, not just a territory. They’ve got more law and order. Likely most girls don’t even own a pistol.”
Mary is momentarily swooning over Aubrey, a lawyer who comes from money, when he manages to steal an illicit kiss. He offers her promises of marriage and a life of ease, but Mary only agrees to consider marrying him if he will wait until she has finished her two years at Wheaton.
This is the first of the Sarah Prine series that I’ve read, although I have had Nancy Turner’s These is My Words on my to-read list for years. I loved Mary Pearl’s voice, her no-nonsense sense of right and wrong, her love for her family, and the lengths she will go to in order to ensure their well-being and happiness.
Pub Date: 14 Jan 2020
Many thanks for the ARC provided by St. Martin’s Press / Thomas Dunne Books
Mary and Esther have other, older, siblings. Older brothers, Clover, and Joshua. Joshua is studying medicine, and Clover wants to run the pecan farm their father owns. Older sisters, Rachel and Rebecca, but Mary is the youngest girl. Two younger brothers, Ezra and Zachary who Mary is their “keeper.” Keeping them in line, and out of trouble. As this story begins, Mary is about to turn seventeen, and she dreams of going away to school, she wants more out of her life, and one day, her parents show tell her about an advertisement for a college “back east,” and that her Aunt Sarah had sent them a picture she had drawn, and now Wheaton College would like to accept her as a student.
”You’ll make friends there in Illinois. It’s a real state, not just a territory. They’ve got more law and order. Likely most girls don’t even own a pistol.”
Mary is momentarily swooning over Aubrey, a lawyer who comes from money, when he manages to steal an illicit kiss. He offers her promises of marriage and a life of ease, but Mary only agrees to consider marrying him if he will wait until she has finished her two years at Wheaton.
This is the first of the Sarah Prine series that I’ve read, although I have had Nancy Turner’s These is My Words on my to-read list for years. I loved Mary Pearl’s voice, her no-nonsense sense of right and wrong, her love for her family, and the lengths she will go to in order to ensure their well-being and happiness.
Pub Date: 14 Jan 2020
Many thanks for the ARC provided by St. Martin’s Press / Thomas Dunne Books
March 10, 2023
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I'm going to rate this quaintly written story a 3.4 out of 5. I get that, at the time this novel takes place, the "west was wild" - but the plotting of this story was even wilder. The story line shot off in so many directions, then veered right back round and finished with a sweet romantic ending . These stylistic meanderings aside, I still found parts of this story quite fascinating.
Mary Pearl reminded me (a little bit) of young Mattie Ross in True Grit. The Prine family's love of Jane Austen's novels added a quirky touch to this wilderness adventure. In the end, Mary Pearl decides to toss her copy of Pride and Prejudice into the river at the Grand Canyon. Why? Because, as she put it so well:
"....A girl needs to have her wits founded on the real things around her, not some made-up world. There is a much better recipe for life than what was in Jane Austen’s book. She was wrong writing that happiness came with a man with money. At least, none of that held water out here in Arizona ….Love is not handsomeness or promises of adventure; it is not wealth or fine clothes or sashaying around society parties eating petit-fours. Someone who loves you doesn’t ask you to be something you aren’t already, nor make you believe you’d never amount to a thing without him. …. Love isn’t about looks or money or even accomplishments. Love is a million little promises kept."
And while I agree that Cinderella-style fairy tales encourage false ideals in young children, I would NEVER tolerate anyone throwing any book of Jane Austen's into a river! (Also, Austen was NOT advocating marriage for wealth's sake. Austen herself decided not to marry in order to secure her own financial position in life.)
An interesting, if somewhat rambling, story.
I'm going to rate this quaintly written story a 3.4 out of 5. I get that, at the time this novel takes place, the "west was wild" - but the plotting of this story was even wilder. The story line shot off in so many directions, then veered right back round and finished with a sweet romantic ending . These stylistic meanderings aside, I still found parts of this story quite fascinating.
Mary Pearl reminded me (a little bit) of young Mattie Ross in True Grit. The Prine family's love of Jane Austen's novels added a quirky touch to this wilderness adventure. In the end, Mary Pearl decides to toss her copy of Pride and Prejudice into the river at the Grand Canyon. Why? Because, as she put it so well:
"....A girl needs to have her wits founded on the real things around her, not some made-up world. There is a much better recipe for life than what was in Jane Austen’s book. She was wrong writing that happiness came with a man with money. At least, none of that held water out here in Arizona ….Love is not handsomeness or promises of adventure; it is not wealth or fine clothes or sashaying around society parties eating petit-fours. Someone who loves you doesn’t ask you to be something you aren’t already, nor make you believe you’d never amount to a thing without him. …. Love isn’t about looks or money or even accomplishments. Love is a million little promises kept."
And while I agree that Cinderella-style fairy tales encourage false ideals in young children, I would NEVER tolerate anyone throwing any book of Jane Austen's into a river! (Also, Austen was NOT advocating marriage for wealth's sake. Austen herself decided not to marry in order to secure her own financial position in life.)
An interesting, if somewhat rambling, story.
May 8, 2020
Summer of 1907, it's stinking hot in the Arizona Territory and Mary Pearl is feeling the heat. Mary Pearl and her sister Esther are secretly reading at night the banned Jane Austen novels they have smuggled home from their Aunt Sarah Elliot’s book shelves.
Around the same time, seventeen year old Mary Pearl meets Aubrey Hanna, he's a smooth talker, snappy dresser and rich. Has Mary Pearl discovered her own Mr Darcy and he's everything a seventeen year old girls romantic dreams are made of? He sweeps her of her feet, he kisses her a couple of times and before she knows it she's engaged.
Mary Pearl’s has always wanted to be an artist and she's not planning on being stuck home looking after her little brothers Zachary and Ezra forever. Wheaton College sends her a offer to study art, she accepts and in a flurry of activity she's ready to leave. Mary Pearl starts her journey, she rides her horse Duende, and also travels by train to begin her lessons at the fancy Northern school. Here Mary Pearl's formal education begins, she's taught, history, Latin, sculpture, drawing, history, oil painting and photography. Mary Pearl is a bit like a fish out of water and she doesn't have a lot in common with the other girly girls at school. She keeps in contact with Aubrey, they write letters to each other and she too busy studying to worry about how their long distance relationship is going?
Light Changes Everything is a delightful story about the spunky Mary Pearl, she's a real character, as you would expect from a girl who has grown up riding horses, wearing a stetson and she can shoot a gun. Mary Pearl grows up in the book, by studying, meeting new people, living in a world very different from her home and from a tragic experience that happens to her. Granny also has given Mary Pearl responsibility/gift of keeping her diaries safe, she's to write her memoirs and only when her Granny meets her maker! I loved how the familiar characters of, Aunt Sarah, Granny, Ma, Pa, Zachary, Ezra, Rachel are included in the new book and also we are introduced to a new cowboy character called Brody Cooperhead.
I'm not going to give too much away about the story as I really don't want to spoil it for anyone and it's a truly delightful book. Nancy E. Tuner has done it again and Light Changes Everything made me laugh, cry, smile and I didn't want it to end. A brilliant book, absolutely perfect and I gave it five big stars! I share all my reviews on Goodreads, Edelweiss, Barnes & Noble, Twitter, Australian Amazon, Kobo and my blog. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
Around the same time, seventeen year old Mary Pearl meets Aubrey Hanna, he's a smooth talker, snappy dresser and rich. Has Mary Pearl discovered her own Mr Darcy and he's everything a seventeen year old girls romantic dreams are made of? He sweeps her of her feet, he kisses her a couple of times and before she knows it she's engaged.
Mary Pearl’s has always wanted to be an artist and she's not planning on being stuck home looking after her little brothers Zachary and Ezra forever. Wheaton College sends her a offer to study art, she accepts and in a flurry of activity she's ready to leave. Mary Pearl starts her journey, she rides her horse Duende, and also travels by train to begin her lessons at the fancy Northern school. Here Mary Pearl's formal education begins, she's taught, history, Latin, sculpture, drawing, history, oil painting and photography. Mary Pearl is a bit like a fish out of water and she doesn't have a lot in common with the other girly girls at school. She keeps in contact with Aubrey, they write letters to each other and she too busy studying to worry about how their long distance relationship is going?
Light Changes Everything is a delightful story about the spunky Mary Pearl, she's a real character, as you would expect from a girl who has grown up riding horses, wearing a stetson and she can shoot a gun. Mary Pearl grows up in the book, by studying, meeting new people, living in a world very different from her home and from a tragic experience that happens to her. Granny also has given Mary Pearl responsibility/gift of keeping her diaries safe, she's to write her memoirs and only when her Granny meets her maker! I loved how the familiar characters of, Aunt Sarah, Granny, Ma, Pa, Zachary, Ezra, Rachel are included in the new book and also we are introduced to a new cowboy character called Brody Cooperhead.
I'm not going to give too much away about the story as I really don't want to spoil it for anyone and it's a truly delightful book. Nancy E. Tuner has done it again and Light Changes Everything made me laugh, cry, smile and I didn't want it to end. A brilliant book, absolutely perfect and I gave it five big stars! I share all my reviews on Goodreads, Edelweiss, Barnes & Noble, Twitter, Australian Amazon, Kobo and my blog. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
January 25, 2020
I just love Nancy E. Turner's writing. Her books are well written but her strength is writing a narrative with the protagonist's voice. Like her previous books, this is historical fiction that continues the story of a previous protagonist except this is her niece. I don't know how she comes up with the storylines but they are realistic and very well written. I accidentally picked up These Is My Words years ago and was immediately swallowed whole. The writing style and character development immediately enveloped me. The same is true for this book. Like her previous books, the story isn’t told or developed. It is revealed. This could be my ancestor, that’s how believable the story is. My only criticism is that I wish that Nancy Turner wrote books as fast as I read them. However, they are too consuming for me so it’s good he doesn’t.
This book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2021
Nancy Turner can write a riveting novel. An earlier book of hers, These Is My Words, is one of my all time favorite books. This book continues the story of the Prine family in the Arizona Territory in 1907. Heat, rattlesnakes and banditos all make appearances. Just a rousting good novel.
August 26, 2019
LIGHT CHANGES EVERYTHING is utterly amazing!!! I dearly want to give it more stars.
I fell in love with Mary Pearl right away with her ambitions to be a girl gone to school to learn the arts of photography. She's tough, independent, and yet loves her family so much she's willing to put her personal hopes and troubles aside to fight for their safety in the Arizona territory of the early 1900s. Ms. Turner's writing pulled me it, the emotions of Mary Pearl were so visceral. I don't see how this novel will not be a top read for many people for 2020. I personally can't wait to share my arc-copy from St Martin's Press with my family :D
I fell in love with Mary Pearl right away with her ambitions to be a girl gone to school to learn the arts of photography. She's tough, independent, and yet loves her family so much she's willing to put her personal hopes and troubles aside to fight for their safety in the Arizona territory of the early 1900s. Ms. Turner's writing pulled me it, the emotions of Mary Pearl were so visceral. I don't see how this novel will not be a top read for many people for 2020. I personally can't wait to share my arc-copy from St Martin's Press with my family :D
January 19, 2020
Egads! Was this book a disappointment.
"Gee golly, I reckon" I can no longer read Chick lit. of a 100 miseries. Not even for a friend's request to discuss. What is there to discuss?
Only giving the 2nd star for the Wheaton placement sections. All else is ridiculous stereotypes fighting to get to a YA level of expression. Few of these characters had any depth development and the ones that had some sounded like middle schoolers. AZ territory didn't get it's due either.
This author- no more for me.
"Gee golly, I reckon" I can no longer read Chick lit. of a 100 miseries. Not even for a friend's request to discuss. What is there to discuss?
Only giving the 2nd star for the Wheaton placement sections. All else is ridiculous stereotypes fighting to get to a YA level of expression. Few of these characters had any depth development and the ones that had some sounded like middle schoolers. AZ territory didn't get it's due either.
This author- no more for me.
June 16, 2024
Light Changes Everything is a fire cracker of a book.What the light reveals is fore shadowed by lightning, a flash of photography, wisdom held in a book, sparkle of life.Mary Pearl Prine who hails from the Arizona territory,tells her story. Its the year 1907 and the country is divided into conventional society in the states and wild territories, a sweeping saga ranging from Illinois to Mexico. The plot meanders all directions with characters so full of life that they could step off the pages. There is plenty of drama,heartache, pluck, beauty all told in the definite western voice of a long ago time. Mary Pearl is a character as appealing True Grit's Mattie Ross.
November 12, 2019
I could not finish this book.
I got it free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I wanted to like a book set in the U.S. Southwest and Illinois in the early 1900s, but I could not. I felt like the author told us too much, not enough showing us Mary Pearl's life. Mary Pearl's voice is very strong, she speaks often in cliches, which makes Mary Pearl feel more like a caricature than a real character. I think I laughed at things that should have made me feel sad (or maybe I should have laughed, I'm not sure). There was so much that happened, even in the first seven chapters that I read that it would take a whole page of paper, single spaced, to explain. And a lot of it seemed pointless and did not move the plot forward at all. And I'm not even sure what the plot or purpose of the story was. I liked the idea of a book about a young woman who was a feminist ahead of her time, but the main reason she seemed to be a feminist was because she didn't want to marry (despite getting engaged?). And Mary Pearl didn't like Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice (though maybe the book is based on Pride and Prejudice?). Overall, a confusing book that wasn't enjoyable enough to finish.
I got it free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I wanted to like a book set in the U.S. Southwest and Illinois in the early 1900s, but I could not. I felt like the author told us too much, not enough showing us Mary Pearl's life. Mary Pearl's voice is very strong, she speaks often in cliches, which makes Mary Pearl feel more like a caricature than a real character. I think I laughed at things that should have made me feel sad (or maybe I should have laughed, I'm not sure). There was so much that happened, even in the first seven chapters that I read that it would take a whole page of paper, single spaced, to explain. And a lot of it seemed pointless and did not move the plot forward at all. And I'm not even sure what the plot or purpose of the story was. I liked the idea of a book about a young woman who was a feminist ahead of her time, but the main reason she seemed to be a feminist was because she didn't want to marry (despite getting engaged?). And Mary Pearl didn't like Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice (though maybe the book is based on Pride and Prejudice?). Overall, a confusing book that wasn't enjoyable enough to finish.
August 5, 2019
I received an advanced reader's copy of this book from St. Martin's Press. This book was a breath of fresh air! I loved the character development and the gumption and spirit of the main character, Mary Pearl! Totally recommended this book! Great read.
May 1, 2022
A satisfying coming-of-age, adventure tale about a strong-minded, brave, sassy young woman, whose devotion to her family & determination to do right never waver. Mary Pearl has become one of my favorite fictional characters!
February 19, 2024
Another great read from Nancy E. Turner. This one is kind of a follow-up story to my favorite 'These Is My Words' Trilogy about the Sarah Agnes Prine family in the Arizona Territory in 1907. However, this book follows the story and life of Sarah's niece, Mary Pearl. I listened to the audible book and it was very good. The narrator, Emily Shaffer, did a great job. (10hours 37minutes)
I was so happy to see a book written about Mary Pearl because in the Trilogy, she was always one of my favorite characters. She was always so helpful and willing to help out Sarah with anything she ever needed and never complained. Sarah and Mary Pearl always seemed to have a special bond.
In this book, Mary Pearl has a whirlwind romance with Lawyer Aubrey Hanna, and he asks her to marry him. She accepts. However, she already has plans to go to Illinois for Art and Photography College in Wheaton. She tells Aubrey she will still marry him, but after she is done with college. Her mother, Savannah, and Aubrey are not happy about it, but she sticks to her guns and goes to college anyway. I love her spunk, and her determination to do what she feels is in her own best interest.
Sometimes, things don't always go as planned, but Mary Pearl will not just fold. She is a strong woman who knows what is right and will do whatever she needs to for things to work out for the best.
Mary Pearl is a survivor. She is strong, and she won't back down. I love her spirit and her will to stand up and do what is right!
I loved how this book ended!
I was so happy to see a book written about Mary Pearl because in the Trilogy, she was always one of my favorite characters. She was always so helpful and willing to help out Sarah with anything she ever needed and never complained. Sarah and Mary Pearl always seemed to have a special bond.
In this book, Mary Pearl has a whirlwind romance with Lawyer Aubrey Hanna, and he asks her to marry him. She accepts. However, she already has plans to go to Illinois for Art and Photography College in Wheaton. She tells Aubrey she will still marry him, but after she is done with college. Her mother, Savannah, and Aubrey are not happy about it, but she sticks to her guns and goes to college anyway. I love her spunk, and her determination to do what she feels is in her own best interest.
Sometimes, things don't always go as planned, but Mary Pearl will not just fold. She is a strong woman who knows what is right and will do whatever she needs to for things to work out for the best.
Mary Pearl is a survivor. She is strong, and she won't back down. I love her spirit and her will to stand up and do what is right!
I loved how this book ended!
January 23, 2020
Love love this author. This is a follow up to her trilogy of the Prine family, ending with The Star Garden. It actually takes up from that book a little bit but from Mary Pearl’s perspective. She goes to school in Wheaton, Illinois which is in the area where I live (thought that was interesting!) Such a great story, as is always by this author. The Arizona territory is such an awesome setting for all their adventures. So hoping this was a start of a new series but I don’t think it is.
November 11, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
Description
“I adored stepping into to the world of the Prines through tough-as-rawhide Mary Pearl. Light Changes Everything is a novel as gritty and authentic as the women of the Arizona Territory. Nancy E. Turner brings the west and its people fully to life.” –Lisa Wingate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Before We Were Yours
Bestselling author Nancy E. Turner returns to the world of Sarah Agnes Prine through the wide-eyes of her irrepressible young niece, Mary Pearl.
It’s the summer of 1907 and the sun is scorching down on Mary Pearl in the Arizona Territory. Mary Pearl and her sister Esther take their minds off the heat by sneaking banned Jane Austen novels from Aunt Sarah Elliot’s lively bookshelf. Whispered read alouds preoccupy their nights, and reveries of getting hitched to their own Mr. Darcy à la Pride and Prejudice swirl through their day dreams.
In walks old-fashioned old-money suitor Aubrey Hanna, here to whisk seventeen year old Mary Pearl off her feet with a forbidden kiss and hasty engagement. With the promise of high society outings and a rich estate, Aubrey’s lustful courtship quickly creates petty tension among the three generations of Prine women.
As autumn approaches all too quickly, Mary Pearl’s Wheaton College acceptance counters quick marriage preparations. Days of travel by horse and by train carry her deep into a sophisticated new world of Northern girls’ schooling. Seeking friendship but finding foes, Mary Pearl not only learns how to write, read, and draw, but also how to act, dress, and be a woman.
Light Changes Everything is the story of a resilient young feminist a century ahead of her time. Full of gumption and spirit, Mary Pearl’s evocative coming of age tale is destined to be the next American classic.
This novel received great reviews from many sources, but I have to say, I didn't get it.
It almost seemed like, to me, that it was done in a way that resembled bullet journaling. There was thought after thought that was sadly tied together - like one huge run on sentence. Lacking in descriptions and character development. If I could give zero stars, I would.
Description
“I adored stepping into to the world of the Prines through tough-as-rawhide Mary Pearl. Light Changes Everything is a novel as gritty and authentic as the women of the Arizona Territory. Nancy E. Turner brings the west and its people fully to life.” –Lisa Wingate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Before We Were Yours
Bestselling author Nancy E. Turner returns to the world of Sarah Agnes Prine through the wide-eyes of her irrepressible young niece, Mary Pearl.
It’s the summer of 1907 and the sun is scorching down on Mary Pearl in the Arizona Territory. Mary Pearl and her sister Esther take their minds off the heat by sneaking banned Jane Austen novels from Aunt Sarah Elliot’s lively bookshelf. Whispered read alouds preoccupy their nights, and reveries of getting hitched to their own Mr. Darcy à la Pride and Prejudice swirl through their day dreams.
In walks old-fashioned old-money suitor Aubrey Hanna, here to whisk seventeen year old Mary Pearl off her feet with a forbidden kiss and hasty engagement. With the promise of high society outings and a rich estate, Aubrey’s lustful courtship quickly creates petty tension among the three generations of Prine women.
As autumn approaches all too quickly, Mary Pearl’s Wheaton College acceptance counters quick marriage preparations. Days of travel by horse and by train carry her deep into a sophisticated new world of Northern girls’ schooling. Seeking friendship but finding foes, Mary Pearl not only learns how to write, read, and draw, but also how to act, dress, and be a woman.
Light Changes Everything is the story of a resilient young feminist a century ahead of her time. Full of gumption and spirit, Mary Pearl’s evocative coming of age tale is destined to be the next American classic.
This novel received great reviews from many sources, but I have to say, I didn't get it.
It almost seemed like, to me, that it was done in a way that resembled bullet journaling. There was thought after thought that was sadly tied together - like one huge run on sentence. Lacking in descriptions and character development. If I could give zero stars, I would.
April 20, 2020
Ugh. I only finished it out of dedication to the author. The first third of the book was a reiteration if the previous book, just from another character’s perspective. Also, Turner changed several events from the previous book. She also villainized a beloved character that was in the previous 2 books. It was unnecessary & undermines the character development and story lines of the previous 2 books. Also- I listened to this on audio book & I hated the narration. The voices she used for the 3 Older women sounded so old and worn down. I never viewed those characters that way & the narration weakened these beloved strong female characters.
As a stand alone book I would give this book a 2-3 stars. As the sequel to Sarah Prince’s journal trilogy, I would give it negative stars if I could.
As a stand alone book I would give this book a 2-3 stars. As the sequel to Sarah Prince’s journal trilogy, I would give it negative stars if I could.
August 4, 2022
I think I have am grown fond of old western stories over time. Especially those with a strong female character that not only holds her own but stands up to men (especially in the times of marry young and have babies). I like the women who hold the fort together and also can shoot better than anyone in town. I loved that this story had my imagination running alongside it, picturing the landscape, the characters , and the cowgirl that didn’t fit in when she went to school in the city, riding her horse in her Stetson and dress.
January 14, 2020
Light Changes Everything is such a compelling, heartfelt book! Mary Pearl is the kind of heroine I love best! She is fearless yet naive, devoted and loyal, strong and resilient with a heart full of love—-except for those that have crossed her or hurt her family! It was thrilling to read about the Arizona Territory back in the early 1900’s; rugged and unforgiving, but beautiful country! The author did a spectacular job of bringing the setting to life. I highly recommend this moving book of love, adventure, betrayal, bravery and determination!
Want to read
October 19, 2019This is a wonderful book and the main character puts me in mind of Mary Call in Where the Lilies Bloom.
Mary Pearl is an amazing character because of her dedication to her family.
Mary Call is the same way in trying to protect her older sister from harm but she soon realized that nothing will stop her from loving Luther.
I loved this story because of family. Family sticks together no matter what!
I felt bad for Mary Pearl because her education was cut short. But I also admired her courage,
This book has all the elements of a great historical fiction book I really enjoyed the setting of the book and poor Aunt Sarah!
I didn't think it fair for Mary Pearls mom to cut her off and in glad that her Granny stuck up for her in that.
So much action in this book I wasn't sure which way to turn!!
I love books like these!! This book also has some humor in but not much.
There's some violence as well. So be prepared for that.
Also be prepared to hang on to the edge of your seat to see what happens next.
I found out through another reviewer that this author has other books I can read! Yay!!
I recommend this book. My thanks to Netgalley. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own!
Mary Pearl is an amazing character because of her dedication to her family.
Mary Call is the same way in trying to protect her older sister from harm but she soon realized that nothing will stop her from loving Luther.
I loved this story because of family. Family sticks together no matter what!
I felt bad for Mary Pearl because her education was cut short. But I also admired her courage,
This book has all the elements of a great historical fiction book I really enjoyed the setting of the book and poor Aunt Sarah!
I didn't think it fair for Mary Pearls mom to cut her off and in glad that her Granny stuck up for her in that.
So much action in this book I wasn't sure which way to turn!!
I love books like these!! This book also has some humor in but not much.
There's some violence as well. So be prepared for that.
Also be prepared to hang on to the edge of your seat to see what happens next.
I found out through another reviewer that this author has other books I can read! Yay!!
I recommend this book. My thanks to Netgalley. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own!
August 25, 2019
Every little girl has a dream growing up and Mary Pearl is no different. She based her dreams on talent and Jane Austin books,from her Aunt's library. Travel with Mary Pearl, her family and her friends; as she goes on her quest to reach her dreams. Starting out in Arizona Territory, her acceptance to college, her many ups and downs and finally she ends up in Arizona (the state). I cried tears of joy and sorrow, when reading this book. I often had problems putting the book down. This story had me from the first sentence and I am almost certain this book will grab you before you finish the first page! The author, Nancy E. Turner, is a master at bringing the characters to life and captivating the reader.
March 27, 2020
I was so fascinated by this story of wild Arizona when it was still considered a Territory in 1907. I haven’t read many historical fiction novels about Arizona during this time and really enjoyed it!
*thank you St Martins Press for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own
*thank you St Martins Press for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own
July 31, 2019
Nancy Turner is a clear, strong voice for women in 1907. Thank You
May 28, 2020
Oh My! One of my favorites and my 2nd favorite of the Prine family saga, although the first book These Is My Words: The Diary of Sarah Agnes Prine, 1881-1901, Arizona Territories is still my favorite. I have been trying to find the perfect shelf name of these kind of books, my favorite genre. A story that is full of feeling, rich in atmosphere and of course listening to the audiobook gave it that very kind of special touch. At first I almost abandoned the audiobook version because the narrator came off as stiff but after listening for a while, I realize that the style was perfect for the storyline. A very special book, I can definitely recommend it.
November 11, 2023
Nancy Turner is amazing. AMAZING. Loved this book.
There is an element of sexual violence in this novel (like all of her other novels), but the display of feminine power she writes through generations of the same line of women is captivating and special. I did my realize all her books are connected until I read this one.
Love love love.
There is an element of sexual violence in this novel (like all of her other novels), but the display of feminine power she writes through generations of the same line of women is captivating and special. I did my realize all her books are connected until I read this one.
Love love love.
April 23, 2020
4.5 STARS
December 24, 2019
Light Changes Everything caught my attention because it sounded like a twist on the modern western, and being a horse girl, I was all about it! However, the further I read, the more I was disappointed.
The novel begins with an introduction to Mary Pearl and her family, who have settled in the Arizona Territory. A proud daughter with aspirations of gaining a college degree in fine art, Mary Pearl convinced her parents to let her attend school in Illinois with her main mount, Duende, even though her mother wants her to stay and get married to a young, rich man named Aubrey. Determined that he'd wait for her, Mary Pearl and her brother bear the ride to the train station and make the two week journey to the college, only to be greeted and treated like an outcast.
Mary Pearl begins to learn how to bridge the gap between the fine women of the east coast and the rugged women of Arizona Territory, and in doing so becomes comfortable at the college. However, the real drama starts when she finds out Aubrey has decided to marry someone else- someone close to Mary Pearl.
Light Changes Everything has such promise, but I think the writing style and lack of character depth really pushed me too far. The pacing is quick, but there's a lack of transitions throughout, leading to a disjointed read. There's also a lot of repetition, which gets frustrating. And finally, that lack of depth in each character was just brutal- yes, there was emotional reaction, but it wasn't really explored. For example, when Aubrey meets Mary Pearl, it's the first time she's ever felt anything for a man, so she's confused about love but decidedly in love with him...?
There were a few great scenes though in which I decided Mary Pearl had great potential to be a sassy, strong leading female, but she mostly maintained that static wishy-washy, woman scorned mold.
I hate to tear a book apart, but I have to be honest, Light Changes Everything was a struggle for me to finish, with very little redemption at the end.
*This review will be posted on my blog, www.thelexingtonbookie.com, on December 27th, 2019.*
The novel begins with an introduction to Mary Pearl and her family, who have settled in the Arizona Territory. A proud daughter with aspirations of gaining a college degree in fine art, Mary Pearl convinced her parents to let her attend school in Illinois with her main mount, Duende, even though her mother wants her to stay and get married to a young, rich man named Aubrey. Determined that he'd wait for her, Mary Pearl and her brother bear the ride to the train station and make the two week journey to the college, only to be greeted and treated like an outcast.
Mary Pearl begins to learn how to bridge the gap between the fine women of the east coast and the rugged women of Arizona Territory, and in doing so becomes comfortable at the college. However, the real drama starts when she finds out Aubrey has decided to marry someone else- someone close to Mary Pearl.
Light Changes Everything has such promise, but I think the writing style and lack of character depth really pushed me too far. The pacing is quick, but there's a lack of transitions throughout, leading to a disjointed read. There's also a lot of repetition, which gets frustrating. And finally, that lack of depth in each character was just brutal- yes, there was emotional reaction, but it wasn't really explored. For example, when Aubrey meets Mary Pearl, it's the first time she's ever felt anything for a man, so she's confused about love but decidedly in love with him...?
There were a few great scenes though in which I decided Mary Pearl had great potential to be a sassy, strong leading female, but she mostly maintained that static wishy-washy, woman scorned mold.
I hate to tear a book apart, but I have to be honest, Light Changes Everything was a struggle for me to finish, with very little redemption at the end.
*This review will be posted on my blog, www.thelexingtonbookie.com, on December 27th, 2019.*
September 9, 2019
This isn't my usual genre but I've been expanding my horizons and I'm so glad I did because I really enjoyed this book!
Set in the early 1900's Arizona Territory, Light Changes Everything is a step into the past and while there is a great amount of joy it also examines the strife and hardships life imposed daily, especially for women.
17-year-old Mary Pearl gives a touching narrative of life on her Pa's Pecan farm all the way to Wheaton College. Mary Pearl is a wonderful main character, her strength of character and love of her large family is refreshing and reading along as she grows into a strong young woman through her experiences is a delight.
I'm looking forward to reading Nancy E. Turner’s previous books about Mary Pearls aunt, Sarah Agnes Prine and getting to know Aunt Sarah better!
Set in the early 1900's Arizona Territory, Light Changes Everything is a step into the past and while there is a great amount of joy it also examines the strife and hardships life imposed daily, especially for women.
17-year-old Mary Pearl gives a touching narrative of life on her Pa's Pecan farm all the way to Wheaton College. Mary Pearl is a wonderful main character, her strength of character and love of her large family is refreshing and reading along as she grows into a strong young woman through her experiences is a delight.
I'm looking forward to reading Nancy E. Turner’s previous books about Mary Pearls aunt, Sarah Agnes Prine and getting to know Aunt Sarah better!
April 12, 2020
Have loved the Nancy Turner books set in the AZ territory. This is number 4 and did not disappoint.
Love the strength of the women (and men) she writes about. Love hearing about the challenges of living in the Southwest desert. The struggle of being a woman at during that time period.
Only thing that would have made it better—if I had been sitting out on a porch on a spring evening listening to these stories.
Great quarantine listen!
One disappointment—-listening to mispronunciation of words. I’m ok that they pronounced Eager, AZ as ‘egger,’ but saguaro cactus and javelina’s—-those grated on my nerves a bit!
Love the strength of the women (and men) she writes about. Love hearing about the challenges of living in the Southwest desert. The struggle of being a woman at during that time period.
Only thing that would have made it better—if I had been sitting out on a porch on a spring evening listening to these stories.
Great quarantine listen!
One disappointment—-listening to mispronunciation of words. I’m ok that they pronounced Eager, AZ as ‘egger,’ but saguaro cactus and javelina’s—-those grated on my nerves a bit!
September 21, 2021
“These Is My Words” is one of my favorite books of all time! I wanted to love this one just as much but the character and plot development just weren’t there. Still enjoyable but a little too dramatic and predictable at times.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 711 reviews