The Prophet's Wife

A lyrical novel exploring the origins of the Mormon faith, RECOMMENDED by the New York Times Book Review. Superb a first-rate historical novel The Denver Post A masterpiece perfect for fans of Hilary Mantel and Geraldine Brooks Kris Waldherr, author of The Lost History of Dreams In 1825, in rural Pennsylvania, Emma Hale marries an itinerant treasure-digger, a man who has nothing but a peep-stone in his pocket and a conviction that he can speak directly to God. His name is Joseph Smith and in a few short years, he will found his own religion, gather zealous adherents by the tens of thousands, and fracture Emmas life and faith. While the Mormon religion finds its feet and runs beyond the grasp of its founder, Emma struggles to maintain her place in Josephs heartand in the religion that has become her world. The Mormons make themselves outcasts everywhere they go. Joseph can only maintain his authority by issuing ever-stranger commandments on Gods behalf, culminating in an edict that men should marry as many women as they please. The Mormons adoption of polygamy only sets them further apart, and soon their communities are ravaged by violence at the hands of their outraged fellow Americans. For Emma, things take a more personal toll as Joseph brings in a new wifea woman whom Emma considers a sister. Emma knows there will never be peace until Joseph faces the law. But on the half-wild edge of the frontier, hes more likely to find death at the hands of a vigilante posse than a fair trial. For the sake of her peopleand her soulEmma must convince the Prophet of God to surrender... and perhaps to sacrifice his life. Probes the emotional maelstrom The New York Times Book Review Fascinating one of the most interesting and nuanced portrayals of a marriage Ive read in a very long time Brilliant. Allison Epstein, author of A Tip for the Hangman