"These Is My Words" by Nancy E. Turner is a captivating work of historical fiction that transports readers to the Arizona Territory during the late 1800s. The novel follows the journey of Sarah Agnes Prine, a resilient young woman who faces numerous challenges and hardships in the harsh frontier life.
Sarah's unwavering desire for education and self-improvement is central to the story. Despite the limitations placed upon her, she takes it upon herself to learn to read and write, using her diary as a personal connection to her innermost thoughts and aspirations. Turner masterfully captures Sarah's voice, bringing her vibrant personality to life and forging a strong bond between the reader and the protagonist.
Love and loss are prominent themes in the novel, particularly in Sarah's relationships with her family, including her siblings, and her love interest, Jack Elliot. The chemistry between Sarah and Jack is palpable, and their love story is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching. Turner skillfully weaves these relationships into the narrative, creating an emotionally gripping and historically accurate portrayal.
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The vivid descriptions of the Arizona Territory allow readers to immerse themselves in the rugged and unforgiving landscape. Turner's depiction of the mountains, the scorching desert heat, and the challenges faced by settlers adds depth and authenticity to the story, making the setting a character in its own right.
Overall, "These Is My Words" is an extraordinary novel that combines elements of romance, adventure, and triumph over adversity. Nancy E. Turner's writing is engaging, heartfelt, and richly detailed. Through the indomitable spirit of pioneers like Sarah Agnes Prine, the book celebrates the power of determination and love. It is a testament to the human spirit and a remarkable tale that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.
What are readers saying?
"These Is My Words" by Nancy E. Turner has garnered a mixed but generally positive response from readers. The book tells the captivating story of Sarah Prine as she navigates life in the Arizona Territory during the late 1800s. One of the book's standout features is its historical setting and the presence of a strong female protagonist.
Readers have praised Turner's ability to paint vivid and engaging descriptions with her writing style. Many have mentioned feeling transported to the Arizona desert, easily envisioning the landscapes and characters described in the book. Turner's attention to detail and her skill in evoking a sense of time and place were highly appreciated by these readers.
The character development in "These Is My Words" has also received praise. Sarah Prine, the protagonist, is widely regarded as a resilient and relatable character. Turner has been commended for crafting a determined heroine who faces numerous challenges yet remains steadfast in pursuing her dreams. Sarah's growth throughout the novel, coupled with her enduring spirit, resonated strongly with readers.
However, some readers did express concerns about the pacing of the story. A few felt that the book had a slow start and took a while to fully engage them. While the story eventually picks up, these readers found the initial chapters to be a bit dragging.
Another common criticism pertains to the romance aspect of the book. Some readers felt that the love interest between Sarah and Captain Jack Elliot lacked depth and felt rushed. They wished for a more developed and authentic portrayal of their relationship.
TheseIsMyWords HistoricalFiction StrongFemaleLead