Picture a storyteller who spun the rugged Arizona frontier into literary gold—meet Nancy E. Turner! Born in Dallas, Texas, this historical fiction maestro burst onto the scene with her debut novel, These Is My Words, a heartfelt saga inspired by her family’s memoirs. With a knack for crafting resilient female protagonists and richly detailed worlds, Turner’s novels transport readers to pivotal moments in American history, blending grit, heart, and hope.
Now a celebrated author, Turner’s journey from a late-blooming college freshman to a bestselling novelist is as inspiring as her characters. Her vivid storytelling and meticulous research have earned her a devoted following, making her a standout voice in historical fiction.
The Making of Nancy E. Turner
Born on November 20, 1953, in Dallas, Texas, Nancy Elaine Turner grew up in Southern California and Arizona, soaking in the landscapes that would later shape her novels. A self-described dreamer, she initially envisioned a traditional life but faced financial struggles that pushed her to pursue education later in life. Enrolling at Pima Community College as a forty-year-old freshman, she honed her craft through a class assignment that became her debut novel. Turner later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of Arizona in 1999, with a triple major in creative writing, music, and studio art. Her tenacity and diverse passions fueled her unique narrative voice.
Nancy E. Turner’s Unforgettable Stories
Turner’s novels are a love letter to strong women navigating turbulent times. Her breakout work, These Is My Words: The Diary of Sarah Agnes Prine, 1881-1901 (1998), follows Sarah, a fierce pioneer in the Arizona Territory, inspired by Turner’s great-grandmother. Readers adore its diary-style intimacy and sweeping adventures, often comparing it to Lonesome Dove. The saga continues in Sarah’s Quilt (2005) and The Star Garden (2007), chronicling Sarah’s resilience through drought, loss, and love.
Beyond the Prine series, Turner’s My Name Is Resolute (2014) dives into pre-Revolutionary America, tracing Resolute Talbot’s journey from piracy and slavery to rebellion. Known for her meticulous research—think library cards and microfilm—Turner weaves authentic details into vibrant, emotionally charged tales. Her style blends raw grit with tender introspection, making history feel personal and alive.
Her standalone novel, Light Changes Everything (2020), introduces Mary Pearl Prine, Sarah’s niece, a young feminist chasing education in 1907 Arizona. This work showcases Turner’s knack for capturing women who defy societal norms, wrapped in a narrative as warm and vivid as a desert sunset.
Why Nancy E. Turner Matters
Nancy E. Turner’s impact lies in her ability to breathe life into unsung heroines, offering a lens on American history through women’s eyes. Her novels, lauded by outlets like Book Riot as must-read historical fiction, resonate with readers for their authenticity and emotional depth. Awards like the Arizona Author of the Year and nominations for the WILLA Literary Award underscore her influence. Turner’s stories inspire, reminding us of the strength found in perseverance and the power of a well-told tale.
- Born: November 20, 1953, in Dallas, Texas
- Key Works: These Is My Words, Sarah’s Quilt, The Star Garden, My Name Is Resolute, Light Changes Everything
- Awards: Arizona Author of the Year (1998), WILLA Literary Award nominee
- Fun Fact: Turner’s debut novel started as a college assignment!
Ready to saddle up for a literary adventure? Grab These Is My Words and dive into Nancy E. Turner’s captivating historical fiction!