Mormon Enigma: Emma Hale Smith

Mormon Enigma: Emma Hale Smith chronicles the life of Emma Hale Smith, first wife of Mormon Church founder Joseph Smith. The biography traces Emma's path from her early life in Pennsylvania through her marriage to Joseph Smith and her central role in the early Mormon movement. The book documents Emma's experiences during the formation of the Mormon Church, including the translation of the Book of Mormon, the establishment of settlements in Ohio and Missouri, and the violent persecution the Mormons faced. Drawing from letters, diaries, and historical records, authors Linda King Newell and Valeen Tippetts Avery reconstruct Emma's perspective on pivotal events in Mormon history. The narrative follows Emma's life after Joseph Smith's death in 1844, including her decision to remain in Nauvoo when Brigham Young led most Mormons west to Utah. Her later marriage to Lewis Bidamon and her involvement with the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints are examined in detail. This biography illuminates the complex dynamics between religious conviction, power, and gender in 19th century America. Through Emma's story, readers gain insight into the personal costs and conflicts that accompanied the birth of a new religious movement.

Readers appreciate the thorough research and balanced perspective on Emma Smith's life, particularly the use of primary sources and letters. Many note the book offers insights into early Mormon history through Emma's viewpoint rather than focusing solely on Joseph Smith. Positive reviews highlight: - Documentation of Emma's strength through difficult circumstances - Examination of conflict between Emma and Brigham Young - Details about the Smith family dynamics after Joseph's death Common criticisms: - Writing can be dry and academic - Some sections move slowly through historical minutiae - Mormon readers note perceived anti-Joseph Smith bias Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (1,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (190+ ratings) Representative review: "This book opened my eyes to Emma as a real person rather than just 'Joseph Smith's wife.' The authors let primary sources tell the story without inserting modern judgment." -Goodreads reviewer

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🔹 Emma Hale Smith refused to join the Mormon migration to Utah after her husband Joseph Smith's death, instead remaining in Nauvoo, Illinois, where she later married Lewis Bidamon and helped establish the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. 🔹 Authors Linda King Newell and Valeen Tippetts Avery faced significant controversy after the book's 1984 publication, including being banned from speaking about Emma Smith in Mormon church buildings for several years. 🔹 The book reveals Emma Smith's complex relationship with plural marriage, including her initial support of the practice followed by vehement opposition, leading to significant tension in her marriage to Joseph Smith. 🔹 Emma Smith served as the first president of the Relief Society, the women's organization of the Mormon Church, and was referred to as an "Elect Lady" in Joseph Smith's revelations. 🔹 The biography drew from previously unused primary sources, including Emma Smith's personal letters and contemporary accounts, providing new insights into early Mormon history and challenging some traditional narratives.