The Kaysville author was recently awarded the Silver Quill Award for Religious Fiction for her book “Abish: Mother of Faith.” The book, a sequel to her first novel, “Abish: Daughter of God,” adds more to the life of Abish, a character from the Book of Mormon.
“I felt like her story wasn’t finished,” said Grant, speaking about the end of the first book.
For the sequel, the author moved beyond the character’s references in the scriptures to imagine her involvement in another significant Book of Mormon story.
“I kind of left the first book open ended, hoping we could come up with something more,” she said. “Having her be the mother of one of the stripling warriors seemed like the best way to continue.”
The Silver Quill Awards are part of those that the league gives out at their annual meeting. Other awards include Gold Quills, for the first place winners in each category, and a Diamond Quill winner for the best overall.
“I was so excited,” said Grant of winning the award.
Despite the success ancient history has brought her, however, Grant is currently looking a little further ahead. Her next book, “Venom,” is a mystery set in modern-day Mexico.
“It focuses a little on some of the drug problems that are happening down there,” said Grant. “It’s been easier because I don’t have to do as much research on the time period, but you have to write in a different voice.”
Not that she doesn’t still think about Abish sometimes.
“I’ve missed her,” she admits. “But I had to say goodbye.