The Brighter the Light by Mary Ellen Taylor

*** My Review***

“The Brighter the Light” by Mary Ellen Taylor takes readers on a journey through a dual timeline narrative set in Nags Head, North Carolina. Ivy, the protagonist, returns to her hometown to claim her inheritance after her grandmother’s passing, only to confront her past and unravel family secrets. The story alternates between the 1950s and 2022, and while I usually do not enjoy this format, the author managed to capture my attention with the compelling tale of Ruth’s past.

Furthermore, Mary Ellen Taylor’s ability to evoke a sense of place is commendable. Through her vivid descriptions, readers can easily envision the picturesque Seaside Resort in Nags Head and feel the salty breeze of the ocean. The author’s attention to detail adds depth to the story, making the setting an integral part of the narrative. Whether it’s the bustling atmosphere of the 1950s summer season or the stormy beaches that reveal a mysterious shipwreck, the backdrop of the Outer Banks becomes a character in itself.

One of the highlights of “The Brighter the Light” is the theme of personal growth and self-discovery. Both Ruth and Ivy embark on journeys that require them to confront their fears and face the consequences of their past choices. As Ruth unravels her grandmother’s secrets and seeks to find her own identity, Ivy grapples with the repercussions of leaving her friends behind years ago. The author skillfully explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the power of confronting one’s past in order to move forward.

The 1950s storyline shines brightly in this novel. Mary Ellen Taylor skillfully brings the era to life, immersing readers in the vibrant atmosphere of Nags Head during that time. Ruth, the twelve-year-old protagonist, works diligently at her parents’ motel and forms a bond with her cousin Tally. Together, they embark on adventures amidst the excitement of a fully booked summer season. The addition of a shipwreck on the beach and the presence of the captivating singer, Carlotta, adds an intriguing twist to Ruth’s story.

On the other hand, the 2022 storyline featuring Ivy falls short of expectations. The constant jumps between timelines became tiresome, hindering the overall enjoyment of the book. While Ruth’s character was vibrant and engaging, Ivy’s character development felt lacking, and her story failed to captivate me. However, readers who appreciate narratives with dual timelines may find more enjoyment in the book than I did.

While the 2022 storyline may have lacked the same appeal as its 1950s counterpart, it still presents readers with thought-provoking questions. Ivy’s struggle to decide between returning to her fast-paced life in New York City or embracing the slower pace and community of the Outer Banks offers an exploration of the importance of roots, connections, and finding one’s true path in life. The potential for romance and the dynamics between old friends further add layers of complexity to Ivy’s narrative.

Despite my reservations about the format, I must acknowledge Mary Ellen Taylor’s skill in crafting the 1950s narrative. The characters from that era were well-developed, and Ruth’s story resonated with me more deeply. If you are a fan of dual timeline stories, “The Brighter the Light” might be worth exploring, as it successfully blends the two time periods and offers a glimpse into Ruth’s fascinating past. However, for me, the 2022 storyline proved to be a tedious slog that dampened the overall entertainment value of the book.

“The Brighter the Light” is a novel that showcases the strength and resilience of both Ruth and Ivy. Growing up working at the Seaside Resort in Nags Head, they navigate their own quests to uncover family secrets from different generations. Ruth seeks to discover the identity of her birth mother, suspecting it may be Carlotta, while Ivy endeavors to unravel her grandmother’s mysterious past through the clues left behind. Alongside their personal journeys, both characters must confront old friends and make life-altering decisions.

As a fan of southern fiction, I found “The Brighter the Light” to be a delightful read, particularly during cold and dreary winter days. Mary Ellen Taylor’s storytelling transports readers to the heart of the South, and her ability to weave secrets, family dynamics, lost friendships, and missed opportunities over two generations is truly captivating. Having discovered Taylor’s talent through this novel, I eagerly look forward to exploring her other works and adding her to my list of favorite southern authors.

In conclusion, “The Brighter the Light” by Mary Ellen Taylor is a southern fiction novel that weaves together two compelling timelines and explores themes of family, secrets, and personal growth. While the dual timeline format may not appeal to all readers, the vivid portrayal of the 1950s era and the captivating characters of Ruth’s story make it a worthwhile read. The atmospheric descriptions and the author’s ability to evoke a sense of place immerse readers in the charm of the Outer Banks. Overall, despite some drawbacks, this book delivers an engaging tale that will satisfy fans of southern fiction and those intrigued by stories of self-discovery and uncovering the past.