Today I found out that my manuscript ABINADI (title will change) was accepted by Covenant Communications, Inc.--the same publisher who produced my Out of Jerusalem series. It will be a Fall 2008 release.
Here's a portion of the query I sent to the publisher, so that you can get an idea of what process a writer has to go through:
Dear Editor,
As discussed in earlier emails, I have completed the first volume in a new Book of Mormon series, tentatively titled Plain and Precious. Volume One—Abinadi—is the story of the prophet who appears in the Book of Mosiah, comprising chapters 11-17. Intertwined with Abinadi’s life is the introduction of the high priest, Alma, another prophet whose story unfolds within the same scriptural text.
In Volume One, Abinadi is a new elder, the least likely to receive a call from the Lord to preach repentance to His people. Yet the Lord’s commandment is clear. Abinadi must warn the people in the city of Nephi of imminent destruction if they do not change their wicked ways. But King Noah, and those who surround him, will do anything to prevent their idolatrous ways to be disturbed. Abinadi is chased out of the city, a death sentence upon his head. Two years later, Abinadi is called again to deliver the Lord’s final message. This time, Abinadi leaves behind a young wife and new child, only to finally meet his fate—death by fire.
Special Note: I have written Abinadi as a young man in his early twenties. This is a contrast to popular LDS art that depicts Abinadi as an elderly man in King Noah’s court, although research shows there is no documentation of Abinadi’s age. When I stumbled upon a painting done of King Noah’s court, by Walter Rane, I was pleased to see my decision supported with a young Abinadi portrayed in art. I think a young Abinadi who sacrifices his life, leaving behind a young wife and child, is a more compelling read than a man who has lived a long and full life.
It’s my intention to write three to four more volumes to round out this series, continuing with the lives of Alma the Elder, and his son, Alma the Younger, and possibly finishing with the Sons of Mosiah. Chapter Notes, Epigraphs, Preface, two-page map, and other details are forthcoming. This manuscript is approximately 94,000 words. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you.
Attached, you will find the story of a man who sacrificed everything.
Sincerely,
Heather Moore
