UK edition of novel about Prophet's wife uncertain

The report came a day after the U.S. publisher of the book, Beaufort Books, announced that it had closed its offices as a "precautionary action" but intended to go ahead with its publication of "The Jewel of Medina" next month.

Beaufort took on American author Sherry Jones' novel after it was dropped by Random House Inc., which feared Muslims would be offended by its subject matter. The novel is about Aisha, who according to tradition was 9 when she became the wife of the Prophet Muhammad, and became a formidable figure in her own right.

On Tuesday, a report on The Bookseller magazine Web site said British publication plans had been thrown into doubt after a weekend fire at an office of publisher Gibson Square.

London's Metropolitan Police are still questioning three suspects arrested early Saturday morning in connection with the fire.

The Bookseller quoted Alan Jessop of Compass, the publisher's sales representative, as saying he had discussed the situation with publisher Martin Rynja.

"He is in good spirits, but has put publication in suspended animation while he reflects and takes advice on what the best foot forward is," Jessop was quoted as saying.

Jessop refused to expand on his remarks or to discuss the situation in a telephone conversation with The Associated Press. Rynja could not be reached for comment.

Rynja announced Sept. 8 that his company would publish "The Jewel of Medina" in a two-book deal with Jones.

"I was immediately taken with what the novel tried to achieve and the moving love story and interesting but still unknown history it portrays," he said at the time.