John E. Bissell retells the Book of Mormon as a historical novel

Soul Survivor: A Chronological Novel of the Book of Mormon reimagines sacred scripture as an epic chronological narrative, moving from the Tower of Babel to the post-resurrection ministry of Jesus Christ. The book is aimed at readers of faith-based fiction and historical storytelling.

Why it matters: - Soul Survivor turns a foundational religious text into a single, readable historical novel, which could broaden access for readers who prefer narrative fiction over scripture study. - The book is positioned for audiences interested in faith-based fiction, inspirational historical fiction, and retellings of sacred history.

What happened: - John E. Bissell, PhD, released Soul Survivor: A Chronological Novel of the Book of Mormon on June 23, 2026. - The novel is described as a chronological retelling of Book of Mormon history. - The book is presented as an immersive journey through faith, conflict, and divine purpose.

The details: - The story spans several millennia and follows two civilizations whose histories become linked through a sacred record. - The narrative begins after the Tower of Babel with Mahonri Moriancumer, known as the Brother of Jared, leading his people across an ocean in vessels built under divine instruction. - The plot later follows Lehi and his family as they leave Jerusalem for a promised land. - The novel revisits King Benjamin's leadership, Alma the Younger's conversion, and Captain Moroni's defense of liberty during war and political unrest. - The book also depicts the resurrected Jesus Christ appearing among the people, a central event in the narrative. - Bissell uses scriptural chronology and historical-fiction style storytelling to make the material more accessible to contemporary readers. - The release materials say the novel honors the source material while making it accessible to a broad contemporary audience. - Readers who enjoyed The Great and Terrible by Chris Stewart are cited as a likely audience. - The release says the book emphasizes the importance of preserving truth and testimony for future generations. - Contact information for review copies and interviews is available through John E. Bissell, PhD, and BrightKey PR.

Between the lines: - The book is not just a retelling; it is framed as a bridge between scripture and mainstream historical fiction. - That positioning suggests Bissell is targeting both religious readers and genre fiction fans, not only traditional scripture audiences. - The emphasis on chronology, civilizations, and political conflict makes the project sound closer to an epic saga than a devotional text.

What's next: - Review copies and interview requests are being accepted through the contact listed in the release. - The book's reception will likely hinge on whether readers see the historical-narrative approach as a fresh entry point into familiar scripture.