Today we are joined by Loralee Evans, LDS historical fiction author. Loralee, we are so glad you could chat with us. You write historical fiction based on the Book of Mormon. What first interested you about this genre?
I really like the potential for story possibilities in the Book of Mormon. There was so much there going on behind the scenes in the lives of the everyday people that we never have a chance to find out about. But in the end, they were real people just like us; they had their own lives to live, and their own challenges to face.
How much research did you have to do in order to create such a realistic Book of Mormon setting?
I read a lot of FARMS articles, and several books about what life was like in ancient Mesoamerica. I found “Images of Ancient America: Visualizing Book of Mormon Life” by John L. Sorenson particularly helpful. It helped me see many different aspects of what sort of every day lives Nephites would lead, from the kinds of houses they would have lived in, to the kinds of foods they’d eat (keeping with the understanding that they were still living the Mosaic Code) and the looms they’d weave with.
Would you tell us a little bit about your first book, “The Birthright?”
“The Birthright” was published in March of 2004 by Cedar Fort.
As a young girl, Miriam must flee her home in a Lamanite village to escape her birthright—to be offered as a sacrifice to the Lamanite gods. During her flight in the deep jungles, Miriam crosses paths with Jacob, a young Nephite soldier who saves her life, and leads her to safety among the Nephites.
Years later Miriam realizes that the sisterly affection she felt for him so long ago has developed into something deeper. But before she or Jacob can discover their true feelings for one another, war comes to the lands of the Nephites…
The sequel to “The Birthright” was just released last month, right? Can you share a little bit about that with us?
It’s called “The King’s Heir” and was published in December 2006, by Cedar Fort.
Aaron is leaving on a mission to the Lamanites and Sarah, unsure if she will ever see him again, must deal with the pressures of other eligible young men- and the threat of Ahiah who is determined to have her at all costs. Among her suitors is Caleb whom she cares for, but only as a brother. Her cousin Rebekah has feelings for Caleb, but is he determined to love only Sarah?
Having read “The Birthright,” I look forward to reading “The King’s Heir.”
Thanks for joining us today, Loralee. We’ll continue our conversation with LDS historical author Loralee Evans tomorrow. In the meantime, visit her site to learn more about her.
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