This year Moore's new novel, Ammon, will be a definite contender for the award in 2011.
Here's the first paragraph of the back cover of the book:
With the fire of a newfound testimony, Ammon and his brethren leave Zarahemla to preach the gospel in Lamanite lands, carrying nothing but hunting weapons and the promises of God. Spotted by an enemy scout, they part ways in the dense jungle with hopes of reuniting at the close of their harvest. Ammon follows the Spirit to the borders of Ishmael, where he's ambushed just seconds after spotting Elena, a fair-skinned woman who captures his interest.
This novel should appeal to young adults and adults alike. It offers a lot of action and adventure mixed with romance. Most of the story is told in two view points: Ammon and Elena (the woman who captures his heart).
The main character Ammon lives up to his name being the strong, tall, handsome Nephite prince who has renounced the throne to serve God by spreading the gospel in enemy territory.
Elena is a wonderful leading lady, who is adventurous and handy with a bow and arrow. She has a strong loyalty to family and especially her father. And, of course, she's very pretty.
I really enjoyed this book. Moore had quite a task of telling a story that many LDS people already know, but she's added wonderful layers making the tale come to life with setting and tension. I loved reading scenes based on the story in the Book of Mormon and seeing how she handled them.
As always Moore's writing is smooth and draws the reader in. I especially like how she added character thoughts that ring true. For example, in a tender scene between Elena and Ammon, Elena thinks ... She knew he had been born a prince and was meant for something greater than defending the king's flocks, yet in her eyes, his greatest service had been making her feel valued... Moore hit a universal theme. All women want to feel valued.
I enjoyed Ammon and I highly recommend it.
To find out more about H.B. Moore and her books check out her blog my writer's lair.
(Covenant Communications, Inc. published Ammon. I was given a free copy, but I reviewed it because I liked it.)
Kathi Oram Peterson is the mother of three, grandmother of two and wife of one. She has always loved books, whether she’s reading or writing them. Her novels include The Forgotten Warrior (2009), An Angel on Main Street (2009), The Stone Traveler (2010), and River Whispers (2011).
Blog: Kathiswritingnook
Email: KathiOramPeterson
Photo by Marc Reynolds
