LDS Books: Horse Stone House

"I 've read a book I believe in! And you tell me I shouldn't believe. Why can't God talk to us today? "

When Emmeline confides to Lydia that she has been reading the Book of Mormon, Lydia is shocked and dismayed. How could her best friend, a solid, honest person, believe in something so blasphemous as new scripture and modern prophets? Lydia knows she can never accept Emmeline's new faith, but out of respect for her friend, she agrees to read the book. And the more she reads, the more she comes to realize that there is a power about the book she cannot deny - no matter how much she'd like to.

Neither could have known the consequences for accepting a faith as unpopular as Mormonism. Although their new religion is shunned by the masses, these women find that the greatest persecution comes from their own families, their own husbands. As the persecution mounts, both are faced with the same chilling choice: family, friends, and fortune - or faith?

Set in nineteenth century England, Horse Stone House is a story of hope and sacrifice which shows that no price is too great to pay for the gospel of Jesus Christ.

In a nicely wrought style, tone, and setting which recall Jane Austin (the book could even be called Prayer and Prejudice) and (a lighter) Thomas Hardy, Harold K. Moon, a masterful storyteller, creates one of the best LDS conversion novels to date. Horse Stone House, set in early Victorian England, is a prequel to The Leah Shadow, and describes the road to conversion, fraught with obstacles, sacrifice, and tender moments, recalling the plight of thousands of 19th century converts from England and Europe.

—Richard Cracroft, former Dean of Humanities, BYU, and columnist for BYU

Reviews -

Lydia is shocked and upset when she learns her friend Emmeline has been reading a controversial book from a strange religion. Lydia knows that she could never take such a book seriously, but out of respect for her friend, she reads it. Lydia soon realizes that this strange book will change her life and that of her family - whether they like it or not.

This book is set in nineteenth century England, and is very informative about the cultural beliefs about religion that existed. The author takes the time to develop Lydia's character so that we understand that she is a headstrong woman, full of opinions and convictions, and that her husband respects that. It is an interesting book, and I have wondered what I would do if I were in their position of choosing family, friends, business, country or faith. The book did end a little abruptly - so I am hoping that there will be a second one to completely finish the story. I am curious what happens to Madge. However, even if there isn't another one, this book was an enjoyable read.

—Dayna Davis, LDSFiles.com Staff Writer