Season of Sacrifice Virtual Book Tour

Today I'm posting an interview with well known author of historical fiction, Tristi Pinkston.

Anne: Tristi, you've been on virtual book tour since the beginning of the month. How has the experience been for you so far?

Tristi: I'm having a wonderful time. The reviews have been positive, the hosts have been friendly and thoughtful, and I have something to look forward to every day.

Anne: Your new book, "Season of Sacrifice," is based on the lives of your great-great-grandfather and his wife. Many people think their family history would make a great book, and yet often their books are not successful. Why do you feel your book is different? What makes your family history story interesting enough to sell?

Tristi: My book appeals to a wide audience because the subject matter ties into some things we're all familiar with -- the colonization of Utah and the practice of polygamy. As an LDS people, this is our past, and we have it in common. The amazing thing about my story is that I made very little of it up. I didn't need to look for additional drama to make it salable -- it was already there. The conflicts -- man against nature, man against self -- were present in the tale. When we write family history stories, we've got to make sure that they're interesting to others outside the family. "Season of Sacrifice" is a hugely emotional book that can appeal to everyone.

Anne: You've mentioned on your blog and in other interviews that you're concerned with the way the media keeps confusing the LDS Church and the FLDS Church. Can you tell us a little more about that?

Tristi: Unfortunately, there exists confusion between the two churches and there has been some backlash against the LDS Church as the authorities have investigated the Texas compound and the activities taking place there. On my blog, I spoke about the differences between the two churches. The LDS Church is not in any way affiliated with the FLDS Church. We did practice polygamy in the past, but we have not done so as a church since 1890. Members found practicing it today lose their church memberships. It's as simple as that. (Check out Tristi's blog on this subject.)

Anne: You didn't publish your book traditionally. Why is that, and where can we find it?

Tristi: I write for the LDS market, and at this time, the publishers aren't accepting books that contain polygamy. I self-published "Season of Sacrifice," badly wanting to get the story out there. I want my readers to know of the strength and faith shown by these intrepid pioneers. They deserve to be honored.

Right now, the only place to find the book is on my website at www.tristipinkston.com.

Tristi: Thank you for hosting me on your blog, Anne.

Anne: It's been a pleasure. Having read Season of Sacrifice and loved it, I want as many people as possible to know about it. It's not the usual pioneer story we're used to reading. Getting to know your family this way, and witnessing their trials, has been an eye opener I won't forget. Hats off to them all--and to you, Tristi, for sharing with the world.

Return to the Neighborhood.